Although some people start their estate planning process when they are younger, some people choose to postpone this task until later in life. The issues that one must focus on when developing an estate plan after reaching retirement age are somewhat different than when you establish your estate plan when you are younger. While young […]

A complex estate planning scenario arises when a person dies while owning real estate in multiple states. The decedent faces the prospect of probate proceedings in each jurisdiction with each having different laws and requirements. Many people use alternate estate planning arrangements to avoid probate because of the cost, delay, and lack of privacy associated […]

During tough economic times, people tighten their belts and carefully manage their budget and monthly finances. For a lot of families, this means making tough choices on where they should skimp and cut corners. One area that many people neglect or put off when money is tight is the preparation of important estate planning documents […]

Our New Jersey estate planning attorneys recognize that many people do not have an estate plan because they do not understand the relevance of estate planning documents to their particular situation. Young people may presume estate plans are merely for older people. They fail to understand that there are many estate planning documents that all […]

When you are setting up an estate plan, there are many pitfalls that can frustrate your intentions.  The primary objectives of many people setting up estate plans include: (1) distributing the decedent’s financial legacy; (2) minimizing estate tax liabilities of beneficiaries; and (3) preventing unreasonable delay and costs associated with probate.  Some reasons that estate […]

Pets are essential members of the family for many people throughout New Jersey and New York. The family pet may join families on vacation and otherwise be included in virtually all family activities. Because the family dog, cat, lizard, or horse is viewed by many as a member of the family, some owners now include […]

3 Common Questions About Revocable Living Trusts Although a simple will can be part of an estate plan, the use of revocable living trusts has increased significantly in recent years according to AARP. Although you might consider a living trust because of the savings in money and expense of the probate process, this estate planning […]

The decision to execute a last will and testament, create a living will, living trust, or anything else that implicates your rights and interests as you get older, it is a good idea to periodically review your documents and accounts to ensure everything is up to date and that your wishes are accurately reflected in valid and […]

If your future wishes are not documented in a last will and testament, or other estate planning document, the laws of New Jersey will apply to how your property and assets are distributed upon your passing. This process can be perfectly fine for some people, but could be disastrous for others. The reason why is because if […]