Estate Administration
Personal representatives have duties that can vary
When someone dies, there might be a need to go through the probate process. This is necessary if the person had significant assets that need to be handled. The probate process involves the administration of the decedent's estate by the person the named executor or...
Getting your way with an incentive trust
Over your life, you worked hard to build wealth and gather assets. You might not want to leave them behind when you pass simply so they can go to waste. If you know that your heirs aren't great with money or you think they are shying away from success, you might...
How does a trust end?
Does your estate executor have to live in the same state?
If you are a New Jersey resident working on your estate plan, you might wonder how limited your choice of executor is. The law doesn't put that many limitations on your choice, and it doesn't limit your executor to those who live in the state of New Jersey. This is...
Making someone your power of attorney
In recent weeks, we've talked several times about the administration of your estate after you pass away, but in some cases, you might need assistance administering your finances while you are still alive. If you are ever incapacitated by injury or health issues, even...
What you need to know about death certificates
Most people know that the death certificate is a piece of paper that officially declares the death of someone. The certificate is issued, sometimes by the funeral home, to the family or executor of an estate. As with almost any piece of legal paper, though, it's not...
Do you know when a will must be probated in New Jersey?
Not every will has to be probated in New Jersey, but any will that involves assets that were solely owned in the decedent's name must pass through probate. This is true in New Jersey no matter what the value of the estate might be. For example, if the decedent has a...
Common obligations of an executor
A few weeks ago, we talked about how to ensure your will is valid. But what if you aren't the one writing the will? What if you are the person appointed to execute the will on behalf of the decendent? At a time when you are likely grieving, this can seem like an...