Navigating Intestacy in NJ: What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
When someone dies without a will, New Jersey’s intestacy laws decide who inherits their property. These state rules determine how assets are distributed among surviving spouses, children, parents, or other relatives, often in ways the deceased might not have intended. Without a will, the court appoints an administrator to manage the estate,...
Estate Planning for Blended Families: Protecting Both Your Children and Your New Spouse
When two families come together, love and commitment can create something truly special, but it can also make financial planning more complex. Parents often want to make sure their children from a prior relationship are secure while also caring for a new spouse. Without careful estate planning, those good intentions can be...
Guardianship vs. Conservatorship in New Jersey: Which Is Right for Your Loved One?
When a loved one is no longer able to manage their own affairs, families often face difficult choices about how to protect their well-being. In New Jersey, two legal arrangements, guardianship and conservatorship, can provide the necessary support. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they serve distinct purposes. Understanding the differences...
What to Do if You’re Facing a Contested Will or Trust in New Jersey
When a loved one passes away, the expectation is that their wishes will be carried out as written. However, sometimes family members question whether a will or trust truly reflects their wishes. Disagreements can quickly escalate into legal disputes, and in New Jersey, the law provides specific grounds and procedures for contesting...
What Is a Durable Power of Attorney and Why Is It Important?
Planning ahead gives you and your loved ones peace of mind. One of the most effective tools in estate planning is a durable power of attorney (DPOA). This document allows you to choose someone you trust to make financial or legal decisions if you can’t do so yourself. Understanding how it works...
How to Contest a Will in New Jersey: Grounds and Process
Contesting a will is never a simple decision. Disputes often arise when family members or beneficiaries believe a will does not reflect the true intentions of the deceased. In New Jersey, courts allow you to challenge a will, but you must have valid legal grounds and follow strict procedures. Below, we’ll walk...
The Danger of DIY Estate Planning in New Jersey
When it comes to protecting your loved ones and your legacy, it can be tempting to save money by creating your own will or trust using an online template. At first glance, DIY estate planning might seem like a quick and cost-effective solution. But in New Jersey, where estate planning laws have...
Communicating Your Estate Plan to Your Loved Ones
Creating an estate plan is a meaningful way to protect your wishes and provide for the people and causes you care about. But having the right documents in place is only part of the process. If your loved ones don’t understand your plan—or don’t even know it exists—they may face unnecessary...
Will Your Loved Ones Owe Inheritance Tax in New Jersey?
If you’re planning your estate, you’ve probably asked yourself, “Will my family owe taxes on what I leave them?” It’s a common concern, and in New Jersey, the answer depends on who your beneficiaries are. Although the state no longer has an estate tax, the inheritance tax remains in effect.
Life Insurance and Estate Planning in NJ
Have you thought about how life insurance can fit into your estate plan? Many people in New Jersey buy life insurance to provide financial protection for their families, but they don’t always consider how it works alongside wills, trusts, and other planning tools. The truth is, life insurance can be a powerful...