Year: 2014
Will contest has stalled distribution of James Brown’s estate
New Jersey fans of James Brown may already know that this Christmas marks the eighth anniversary of his death. By all accounts, Brown's estate plan was meticulously done. It was obvious to those who perused it that he put his soul into its creation. However, that did...
Debts and the New Jersey probate process
The majority of estate-planning discussions center on an individual's assets. Sometimes, it is not until a loved one has passed away that family members turn their attention to his or her debts. Whatever debts the decedent has that survive his or her death are handled...
Why every adult in New Jersey should have an estate plan
As 2014 draws to a close, people's thoughts may not only be on the holidays, but also on wrapping up their finances for the year. This is a good time to take stock of any estate-planning arrangements that need to be made. Every adult New Jersey resident needs an...
What does it mean to be the executor of someone’s estate?
Deciding who will be the executor of your New Jersey estate may seem like a simple decision, but it should be given more than a passing thought. This person will be responsible for many tasks -- not just the distribution of your property. Therefore, it may be...
Will converting to a Roth IRA improve an estate plan?
Wills, trusts and powers of attorney are the tools that most New Jersey residents think about when it comes to estate planning. However, other tools are available that an individual can use to create an estate plan that meets his or her goals. One of them is a...
Trusts can accomplish estate planning goals
Trusts often bring up images of wealthy people who are limiting their tax exposure and/or providing for their children. However, regardless of a New Jersey resident's net worth, trusts can be an invaluable estate planning tool for many reasons. Depending...
New Jersey parents protect their children with estate planning
Some New Jersey parents may still believe that they do not need an estate plan since they do not have many assets. However, for parents who have minor children, estate planning is about much more than distributing assets. Without a will, who will care for the children...
Estate planning is as much for family as for New Jersey residents
Even though thinking about dying is not pleasant, many New Jersey residents take the time to put together an estate plan. However, this estate planning is not only for an individual, but for his or her family as well. It can give family members the peace of mind that...
Estate planning is about more than taxes
Many New Jersey residents are aware that avoiding estate and inheritance taxes is one of the reasons that people create an estate plan. However, there are other -- and some would say more important -- considerations in estate planning. What an individual believes his...