Reliable Lawyer Helps You Create a Will in New Jersey

Established law firm in Bergen County offers estate planning guidance

Estate planning can be complicated and it often involves difficult decisions. At The Paton Law Firm LLC in Fair Lawn, I help northern New Jersey residents navigate the estate planning and probate processes. Since 1987, my law firm has provided compassionate guidance to individuals and families. If you are deciding how best to leave a legacy to your heirs, or if you have concerns regarding the validity of a loved one’s will, I can provide the trustworthy advice you need.

Conscientious attorney assists clients with all types of wills

New Jersey law recognizes multiple types of wills. I help individuals determine which type of document best suits their needs.

• Simple wills — As the name suggests, a simple will is a straightforward document that provides for the distribution of estate assets. A simple will can also name a guardian for minor children.
• Joint wills — Commonly used by married couples, joint wills are similar to simple wills. They allow the surviving spouse to inherit the entirety of the deceased spouse’s estate. When the surviving spouse passes away, the chosen beneficiaries will inherit the estate.
• Testamentary trusts — Testamentary trusts are created within a will. They go into effect upon the testator’s death. These trusts can be useful for reducing estate taxes, providing financial support to disabled beneficiaries and directing funds toward the needs of minor children and young adults.
• Living wills — Rather than distributing property, a living will specifies the medical treatments the individual wants to receive in the event the individual becomes incapacitated and unable to communicate their preferences regarding extraordinary measures that could be used to prolong their life.

With my years of experience creating wills, I can help you determine which estate planning tools are best suited to your needs.

Knowledgeable lawyer guides clients in will creation

I assist clients in ensuring their wishes will be carried out after their death. I will draft a comprehensive document on your behalf that may include the following:

• Bequests to specific parties
• Distributions of remaining property
• Language on guardianship arrangements for minor children

In addition, a will can name an executor to carry out the directions given in the will. I take a thorough approach to will creation, minimizing the possibility of probate confusion and ensuring that the will is valid under New Jersey law.

Compassionate attorney provides intestate guidance

When a loved one dies without a will, there is often confusion regarding the inheritance. In this circumstance, I can file an Affidavit of Surviving Spouse, which allows property up to $20,000 to be transferred to a surviving spouse or domestic partner. If the property totals more than $20,000, then an administrator will be appointed and the property will be distributed according to the laws of intestate succession.

Having worked with bereaved families for three decades, I understand how distressing this difficult time can be. I can help you navigate the process of intestate succession and ensure that proper protocols are observed.

Respected law firm manages will disputes

If questions arise regarding the validity of a will, my law firm can represent individuals in a will contest. New Jersey allows for the following grounds for disputing a will:

• The decedent lacked testamentary capacity to create a will.
• The proper procedures for creating a will were not followed.
• The will was obtained by fraud.
• A party imposed undue influence on the testator.

If you have concerns about the validity of a loved one’s will, I can take legal action to challenge the will. New Jersey allows for the mediation of will disputes. If mediation fails to resolve the dispute, I will represent your interests at the hearing, working toward a just outcome.

Contact a responsive estate lawyer in New Jersey for a free consultation

At The Paton Law Firm LLC in Fair Lawn, I represent northern New Jersey residents in all matters pertaining to wills. To request a free initial consultation, call my office at 201-470-4801 or contact me online.