Best Estate Planning Attorneys in Albuquerque

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Albuquerque, New Mexico?

  For non-emergency concerns, one can contact the Albuquerque Police Department at 505-242-COPS or 505-242-2677.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Albuquerque, New Mexico?

  To obtain a copy of a police report for an incident in Albuquerque, you have two options. You can either visit the Records Division in person or make a request over the phone. The Records Division can be reached at 505-768-2020 during their phone hours, which are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• How often and under what circumstances should one review or update their wills and trust agreements in Albuquerque?

  In Albuquerque, individuals are advised to evaluate their wills and trust agreements approximately every four to five years, regardless of whether they believe significant changes have occurred. Nonetheless, certain life events, such as marriage, divorce, family death, childbirth, and significant health changes, necessitate immediate adjustments. This routine keeps a person's estate documentation current, ensuring that their assets will be handled as they wish.

• Are there any estate taxes that Albuquerque residents need to be aware of?

  While the state itself imposes no estate tax, Albuquerque residents should note that a federal estate tax could apply if their estate surpasses certain thresholds. As of 2022, an estate must be worth more than $12.06 million to be subject to this tax. In 2023, this exemption limit will rise to $12.92 million. Therefore, substantial estates may still incur federal taxation obligations.

• Does Albuquerque levy an inheritance tax on assets received from a deceased individual?

  No inheritance tax is imposed in Albuquerque. However, residents who inherit assets from someone living in a state that does enforce an inheritance tax may be liable for these charges. The amount owed is usually based on the value of the inherited assets and the relationship to the deceased. Notably, surviving spouses are typically exempt, and smaller inheritances may also be exempt in some states.

• In Albuquerque, what steps does an individual need to take to transfer ownership of a jointly held property following the death of the co-owner?

  In Albuquerque, if an individual loses a co-owner of a jointly held property, they must provide proof of the co-owner's death and submit specific documents. For real estate, they need to file an affidavit at the county recorder's office describing the property, confirming joint tenancy, citing prior deed information, and detailing the deceased owner's name and date of death. A certified death certificate copy is also required. Other assets might necessitate different processes.

• What are the measures one can take in Albuquerque to protect elderly individuals from financial exploitation?

  If one suspects elder financial abuse in Albuquerque, it's urgent to report to New Mexico Adult Protective Services or local police. To avert exploitation risks, one could establish a durable financial power of attorney with stipulations for regular accounting audits by a trusted third party. Another safeguard is an irrevocable living trust, limiting alterations that could potentially benefit an abuser.