Eleven workers are still missing after an oil rig, named the Deepwater Horizon, exploded, caught fire, and sank 36 hours later off the coast of Louisiana.  Coast Guard crews searched for the workers over a 1,940-square-mile search area by air twelve times and by boat five times.  Seventeen workers have been brought to shore, suffering from burns, broken legs and smoke inhalation, while four of them were critically injured.  About 100 others who were not hurt had made it to a supply boat after the explosion. The 400-by-250-foot rig (about twice the size of a football field) is owned by Transocean Ltd. and was under contract to BP.  A lawsuit was filed shortly after the blast, claiming the companies were negligent. Since 2001, there have been 69 offshore deaths, 1,349 injuries and 858 fires and explosions in the Gulf, according to the federal Minerals Management Service. On average, offshore oil workers earn between $40,000 to $60,000 a year.  Joe Hurt, regional vice president for the International Association of Drilling Contractors has stated that, “Working on offshore oil rigs is a dangerous job, but has become safer in recent years thanks to improved training, safety systems and maintenance”. See: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36683314

Tragedies such as the one occurring off the coast of Louisiana are unexpected but the security of your loved ones and the property you own can be protected by a Last Will and Testament.  According to New York Surrogate’s Courts, a valid will can transfer an interest in both personal property (e.g. bank accounts, furniture, stocks, and clothing) and real property (such as real estate).  A will also allows a person to name an individual to serve as an executor of the estate and guardian over the children.  Moreover, a will can provide protection for family members (for example, trusts for adult incompetent children).
See: http://www.nycourts.gov/courts/nyc/surrogates/faqs.shtml#q3

Leeds Morelli & Brown, PC lawyers have extensive experience handling probate and estate matters.  Leeds Morelli & Brown, PC guardianship, surrogate, testate and intestate representation extends to clients throughout Long Island, the New York Metropolitan area. For more information or a free consultation, contact Leeds, Morelli & Brown, PC at 1-800-585-4658.