Lois Bladykas

July 02, 2021 | New York Law Journal

The Surrogate's Court Procedure Act provides a streamlined procedure for a nominated executor, distributee or otherwise interested person to obtain an order to open a safe deposit box to search for a will, insurance policy, or cemetery deed. In their Trusts and Estates Law column, Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas discuss the issues involved in accessing a safe deposit box when the owner of the box is still alive, but suffers from alleged incapacity.

By Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas

5 minute read

October 30, 2020 | New York Law Journal

In their Trusts & Estates Law column, Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas address an important question for account owners and their estate planning attorneys: Is the account in question truly a joint account, or is it merely a convenience account? While this may appear to be a simple question, this issue is ripe for litigation and frequently plays out in the courts after one of the account owners passes away.

By Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas

7 minute read

May 01, 2020 | New York Law Journal

In their Trusts and Estates column, Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas write: The use of a mediator during this time of "social distancing" is possible through video and other electronic means, and if matters are resolved, the burden on the court system will be reduced.

By Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas

4 minute read

September 06, 2019 | New York Law Journal

Trusts and Estates Law columnists C. Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas discuss the filing of objections to probate, and explores discovery issues that may arise during a contested probate proceeding.

By C. Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas

6 minute read

March 08, 2019 | New York Law Journal

In this Trusts and Estates Law column, C. Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas present the first in a series of articles concerning contested probate proceedings in Surrogate's Court.

By C. Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas

5 minute read

May 04, 2018 | New York Law Journal

In this Trusts and Estates Law column, C. Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas address the question: How do we protect our digital assets now, yet ensure access later by our trusted family member or fiduciary so that they can be marshaled and protected as part of our estate?

By C. Raymond Radigan and Lois Bladykas

6 minute read