Estate Planning with Bernard Law is a practical, accessible podcast that helps families protect their assets and avoid unnecessary court battles. Featuring New York and Florida attorney Daniel Bernard, each episode covers the real-world questions and concerns that come up around wills, trusts, guardianship, and probate.
Estate Planning for First-Time Homeowners on Long Island
In this episode of Estate Planning with Bernard Law, host Lisa Mosbey and attorney Daniel R. Bernard delve into the intricacies of estate planning for first-time home buyers on Long Island. Daniel Bernard, founder of Bernard Law, P.C., explains how purchasing a home introduces new estate planning needs, as it often becomes a significant probate asset. The discussion covers the importance of planning for asset transfer, the implications of joint ownership, and the potential pitfalls of adding children to property deeds. Daniel also highlights the role of trusts in avoiding probate and protecting assets, and the necessity of a power of attorney for managing financial affairs if incapacitated. This episode is crucial for homeowners looking to safeguard their assets and ensure their wishes are honored.
9 Sept 2026
Do You Still Need a Will If You Have a Trust in New York?
In this episode of Estate Planning with Bernard Law, attorney Daniel R. Bernard, founder of Bernard Law P.C., joins host Lisa Mosbey to discuss the critical differences between wills and trusts. Daniel explains why having both a will and a trust is essential for comprehensive estate planning, emphasizing that a will can appoint guardians for minor children, a function a trust cannot perform.
He delves into the nuances of probate and non-probate assets, illustrating how trusts can streamline estate management and avoid costly court processes. Daniel also addresses common misconceptions about trusts, such as the need to actively transfer assets into them, and the role of a pour-over will in ensuring all assets are properly managed. Listeners will gain valuable insights into creating a robust estate plan that protects their assets and provides peace of mind.
12 Aug 2026
How Probate Actually Works in New York (And How to Avoid It)
In this episode of Estate Planning with Bernard Law, host Leann Lyon sits down with Attorney Daniel R. Bernard to demystify the probate process in New York. Daniel explains the intricacies of probate, highlighting why it is often seen as a cumbersome and costly procedure that should be avoided when possible. He outlines the differences between probate and non-probate assets, emphasizing the importance of beneficiary designations and the role of trusts in estate planning. Daniel also shares common challenges faced during probate, such as locating original wills and dealing with uncooperative executors. Additionally, he provides valuable strategies for avoiding probate, including the use of revocable living trusts and ensuring all assets have up-to-date beneficiaries. This episode is essential for anyone looking to streamline their estate planning process and safeguard their assets for future generations.
15 Jul 2026
What Happens After Death in New York: A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Estate Process
In this episode of Estate Planning with Bernard Law, attorney Daniel R. Bernard, founder of Bernard Law PC, provides a comprehensive guide to what happens after someone passes away in New York. Alongside host LeAnn Lyon, Daniel discusses the initial steps to take, such as determining whether the deceased had a will and identifying their assets. He explains the legal authority necessary to act on behalf of an estate and the probate process, including the role of the surrogate’s court in appointing executors. Daniel also covers the distinction between probate and non-probate assets and the steps involved in marshaling and distributing assets. Listeners will gain valuable insights into common issues that can delay the process, such as missing documents or family disputes, and learn strategies to avoid these pitfalls. This episode is essential for anyone looking to understand estate planning and ensure a smoother process for their loved ones.
17 Jun 2026
When Should You Update Your Estate Plan in New York? (And What Triggers a Change)
In this episode of Estate Planning with Bernard Law, attorney Daniel R. Bernard discusses the critical moments when you should consider updating your estate plan. Joined by host LeAnn Lyon, Daniel emphasizes the importance of revisiting your estate plan every five years or after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. He explains how changes in family dynamics and asset ownership can impact the effectiveness of an estate plan. Daniel also warns about the potential pitfalls of outdated plans, including unintended beneficiaries and probate complications. He provides practical advice on how to ensure your estate plan remains aligned with your current situation and legal requirements. Listeners will gain valuable insights into maintaining a robust estate plan that protects their assets and fulfills their wishes.
20 May 2026
Estate Planning for Blended Families: Avoiding Conflict and Unintended Outcomes
In this episode of Estate Planning with Bernard Law, attorney Daniel R. Bernard discusses the complexities of estate planning for blended families. Joined by host Leann Lyon, Daniel explains how the goals of blended families differ from traditional ones, emphasizing the importance of clear planning to prevent conflicts. Key issues such as housing, beneficiary designations, and the role of New York law in intestate situations are explored. Daniel also delves into the significance of updating wills and the potential pitfalls of not doing so. He introduces creative solutions like QTIP trusts to balance the needs of a surviving spouse with those of children from previous relationships. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone looking to ensure their estate plan reflects their unique family dynamics and protects their loved ones.
30 Sept 2025
The Beneficiary Mistakes That Could Cost Your Family And How to Avoid Them
Attorney Daniel Bernard addresses common beneficiary designation mistakes that can disrupt estate plans in New York and Florida. The episode explores how incomplete or poorly planned beneficiary designations can lead to probate delays, liquidity issues, or unintended tax consequences, particularly with retirement accounts under the Secure Act. It highlights the role of trusts in managing complex family dynamics, protecting assets for minors, and ensuring equitable distribution, emphasizing the need for professional guidance to avoid costly errors.
2 Sept 2025
Do You Really Need a Trust? The Truth About Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts
Attorney Daniel Bernard explores the role of trusts in estate planning, focusing on the differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts in New York and Florida. The episode explains how trusts help avoid the costly and time-consuming probate process, protect assets for long-term care through Medicaid eligibility, and address the rising care needs of the baby boomer generation. It also covers common pitfalls of DIY trusts and the importance of professional guidance to ensure effective estate planning.
5 Aug 2025
Estate Planning for Snowbirds: How to Handle Florida and New York Residency
In this episode of Estate Planning with Bernard Law, estate planning attorney Daniel Bernard, who helps families in New York and Florida protect their assets and secure their future. Daniel dives into the unique estate planning challenges faced by “snowbirds”—individuals who split their time between two states, often New York and Florida.
From understanding domicile rules and residency audits to avoiding probate in multiple states, Daniel explains why snowbirds need a carefully tailored estate plan. He also discusses how trusts, health care directives, and powers of attorney must be adapted to ensure seamless administration across state lines.
Whether you’re considering retirement in Florida, already living as a snowbird, or planning to own property in multiple states, this episode provides actionable insights to simplify your estate planning and protect your loved ones.
8 Jul 2025
What Really Happens If You Die Without a Full Estate Plan?
In this debut episode, estate planning attorney Daniel Bernard explains what actually happens when someone dies without a comprehensive estate plan, and why having a will alone often isn’t enough. Daniel and host Kevin Rosenquist discuss the difference between probate and non-probate assets, the role of trusts, and how to avoid the costly and time-consuming probate court process. Daniel also shares what documents every adult should have in place and why families are often surprised, both for better and worse, when a loved one passes away.
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