Estate Planning & Probate Lawyer in NJ

Many people avoid estate planning because they find the topic uncomfortable or believe it's only necessary for the wealthy. In reality, estate planning is essential for everyone who wants to ensure their wishes are honored and their loved ones are protected. Without a proper estate plan, New Jersey intestacy laws will determine how your assets are distributed, and the court will appoint someone to make medical and financial decisions if you become incapacitated.

A comprehensive estate plan goes beyond simply deciding who inherits your property. It includes naming guardians for minor children, designating someone to make healthcare decisions if you're unable to do so, minimizing estate taxes and probate costs, and ensuring your business interests are properly handled. These decisions require careful thought and experienced legal guidance.

At Buchan & Cardamone, our estate planning services are led by David Cardamone, who takes a personalized approach to understanding your family dynamics, financial situation, and long-term goals. We explain complex legal concepts in plain language and help you make informed decisions about your estate plan. Our goal is to create a plan that provides peace of mind for you and security for your family.

When a loved one passes away, their estate must go through a legal process called probate. This process involves validating the will (if one exists), identifying and inventorying the deceased person's assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries. The probate process can be complex and time-consuming, particularly if the estate is large, if there are disputes among family members, or if the will is contested.

In New Jersey, probate matters are handled by the Surrogate's Court in the county where the deceased person lived. The court appoints an executor (if there's a will) or an administrator (if there's no will) to manage the estate. This person has significant responsibilities, including gathering assets, notifying creditors, filing tax returns, and making distributions. Executors and administrators can be held personally liable for mistakes, which is why it's essential to have experienced legal guidance throughout the process.

At Buchan & Cardamone, we guide executors and administrators through every step of probate administration. We help prepare the necessary court filings, communicate with beneficiaries and creditors, resolve disputes, and ensure that all legal requirements are met. Our goal is to make the process as efficient and stress-free as possible during what is often a difficult time for families.