Blended families have become increasingly common, everyone knows someone who’s in one, if not actually in one themselves. These extended family trees challenge traditional estate planning concepts, adding a layer of complexity that requires some detailed, thoughtful planning to ensure that the blended family members do not end up at odds over miscommunication or a […]
Trusts & Estates
What is a Living Will/Advance Healthcare Directive?
A living will, also known as an advance healthcare directive, is a legal document that outlines an individual’s wishes for medical treatment and end-of-life care in the event that they become incapacitated or unable to communicate their wishes. This document is used to guide medical professionals and loved ones in making decisions about the individual’s […]
Why Do I Need an Estate Plan?
There are several reasons why you may need an estate plan. An estate plan can help ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away, and can also help protect your loved ones and your legacy. Here are some of the key reasons why you may need an estate plan: […]
Should I Hire a Lawyer to Help Me Draft a Will or Can I Do It Myself?
While it is possible to create a will on your own, it is generally recommended that you hire a lawyer to help you draft your will. A lawyer can help ensure that your will meets all of the legal requirements in your state and that your wishes are clearly and accurately reflected in the document. […]
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process by which a deceased person’s assets are distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries according to their will or state law. It involves the court overseeing the administration of the deceased person’s estate, which includes gathering their assets, paying off any debts and taxes owed, and distributing the remaining property to […]
Do I Need a Lawyer for Probate?
The probate process can be complex, and the assistance of a lawyer can be very helpful in ensuring that the process is carried out smoothly and efficiently. However, whether you need a lawyer for probate depends on the complexity of the estate and your comfort level with legal and financial matters. In general, if the […]
What Are Trusts and What Benefits Do They Offer?
A trust is a legal arrangement in which a person transfers assets to a trustee to manage on behalf of beneficiaries. The trustee is responsible for managing the assets in the trust and distributing income and principal to the beneficiaries according to the terms of the trust document. Trusts can be revocable or irrevocable and […]
What Estate Planning Can I Do for My Pets?
In New Jersey, pets are considered personal property under the law, which means that they can be included in your estate plan just like any other assets. Here are a few estate planning options for your pets in New Jersey: Pet Trust: One option is to set up a pet trust, which allows you to […]
What Happens If the Terms of a Trust Are Disputed?
If the terms of a trust are disputed, the matter may need to be resolved through a legal process. Depending on the nature and scope of the dispute, there are several options available for resolving trust disputes: Mediation: Mediation is a voluntary process in which a neutral third party works with the parties involved in […]
What Happens When Someone Dies Without a Will in New Jersey?
When someone dies without a will in New Jersey, the distribution of their assets will be determined by the state’s intestate succession laws. Intestate succession in New Jersey follows a specific order of distribution, based on the deceased person’s surviving family members. Here is a general outline of how intestate succession works in New Jersey: […]
