Our Blog is our way of helping you make sense of what may otherwise be a perplexing or confusing situation in which you may find yourself. But don't despair. Although you may think you are the only one experiencing some type of difficulty or hardship, if you look around, you will see that others are as well. It is said that "what is most personal is most general” — and that is true.
It's in the spirit of making the personal seem more general that we write these blogs so that you gain a better awareness of the issues you may be confronting. And in the process of gaining awareness, you begin to develop a realistic approach to whatever it is you are seeking to accomplish. Of course, these Blog posts are no substitute for one-on-one legal advise; however, you may find them useful, if for no other reason than to put your concerns into the proper context. From there, additional research and consultation with legal professionals can follow.
We hope you find these blogs helpful as you navigate through life's many challenges and opportunities!
P.S. if there are any topics you would like us to address, please send us a note to that effect.
Understanding Supported Decision Making Supported Decision Making (SDM) is an empowering approach for individuals with disabilities or cognitive impairments, allowing them to make their own choices with guidance from trusted individuals. Unlike guardianship, which transfers decision-making autho...
Presumption of Capacity Legally speaking, all adults are presumed to have the capacity to manage their own affairs and make decisions unless proven otherwise. This presumption ensures that individuals maintain autonomy and freedom in their personal and financial matters until clear evidence indi...
Introduction to Attorney Review In New Jersey, the "Attorney Review" period is a critical phase in a real estate transaction. This period allows both the buyer and seller to have their respective attorneys review and possibly modify the terms of a real estate contract after it has been signed. ...
Recent changes in the real estate industry have introduced a new commission structure, impacting how agents are compensated for their services. This shift aims to address transparency, fairness, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving market. Traditional vs. New Structure Traditionally, real est...
Relocating to a new state can raise important questions about the validity of your existing legal documents, including your will. If you have a New Jersey will and move to another state, it's crucial to understand how this may impact the enforceability of your estate plan. Validity Across State ...
The Cost of Unclaimed Assets Each year, a substantial amount of money escheats to the state due to abandoned accounts and unclaimed assets. In the United States, it's estimated that over $70 billion in unclaimed property is currently held by state governments. This includes funds from bank accou...
Understanding Pet Ownership and Wills When planning your estate, you might wonder whether you can include provisions for your pets in your will. Pets are considered property under the law, and while you cannot leave money directly to them (although some people have tried 😊), you can ensure their...
Understanding the Right to Be Buried on Your Own Property The idea of being buried on personal property is rooted in the desire for a final resting place that holds personal significance. While the concept might seem straightforward, it is crucial to consider the legal implications before procee...
The Benefits of Co-Guardians Appointing co-guardians in New Jersey can offer several benefits, particularly when managing the care of a minor or incapacitated individual. One key advantage is the shared responsibility, which can ease the burden on each guardian. Co-guardians can provide differen...
With all the attention on politics and Joe Biden dropping out of the presidential race, the issue of “age” and one's “mental capacity” is taking center stage. When is old too old? Ageism It should be made clear that age itself is not a disability, nor the cause of diminished cognition. There ar...
What is an Ancient Mortgage? An ancient mortgage, also known as a "dormant mortgage," refers to a long-standing mortgage that has remained unpaid and unaddressed for an extended period. In New Jersey, such mortgages typically arise when homeowners or their heirs inherit properties without clear ...
What is a Quitclaim Deed? A quitclaim deed is a legal document used to transfer ownership of real property from one person (the grantor) to another (the grantee) without making any guarantees or warranties about the title. This type of deed is often used in situations where the parties involved ...
Introduction When it comes to managing a deceased person's estate, the roles of administrators and executors are crucial. Both are responsible for settling the estate, but their appointments, responsibilities, and the circumstances under which they serve can differ significantly. Role of an ...
Understanding New Jersey Inheritance TaxNew Jersey imposes an inheritance tax on the transfer of assets from a deceased individual to their beneficiaries. Unlike the federal estate tax, which applies based on the total value of the estate, the New Jersey inheritance tax focuses on the relationshi...
Legal Validity of Handwritten Notes Distributing personal property based on a handwritten note drafted by the testator, signed, and dated can be a straightforward method if the note meets certain legal criteria. Known as a holographic will, these handwritten documents are recognized in many juri...
Efficiency and Streamlined Decision-Making Appointing a single executor and trustee with alternates rather than co-executors and co-trustees is often a more efficient approach to estate management. A single executor or trustee can make decisions more swiftly and decisively, avoiding potential de...
Understanding Probate and Non-Probate AssetsProbate assets are those that are subject to the probate process upon the owner's death. This legal process involves validating the deceased's will, appointing an executor, identifying and inventorying assets, settling debts, and distributing remaining ...
In today's fast-paced world, staying connected and organized is essential, especially when dealing with legal matters. The Clio for Clients app is designed to bridge the communication gap between clients and their attorneys, offering a seamless, secure, and efficient way to manage legal cases. He...
In the intricate landscape of estate planning, dying intestate, or without a valid will, can have significant implications for one's estate and loved ones. This article delves into the ramifications of intestacy, shedding light on the complexities that ensue when individuals fail to plan for the ...
Reconciling tax assessed value with fair market value on a property is a common challenge faced by homeowners and real estate professionals alike. Understanding the difference between these two valuation methods is essential for accurately assessing the value of a property for tax purposes and re...
Gifting as a General Concept? In some cases, estate planning may involve the idea of divesting yourself of assets, that is to say, giving away your money or assets to others, perhaps your children or grandchildren, during your lifetime. This can make sense, especially if you are concerned about ...
The IRS introduced a significant change in tax regulation with the new ruling 2023-2, which removes the step-up in cost basis for assets transferred into an irrevocable trust. This change marks a pivotal shift in estate planning and tax strategy, impacting many individuals and families. Under...
Pre-Closing Walkthroughs are Vital A pre-closing walkthrough is a pivotal step in the real estate buying process, offering buyers a final opportunity to ensure that the property they are purchasing meets their expectations and the terms of the contract. This inspection, typically conducted a day...
Introduction In an era defined by fleeting trends and rapid change, the concept of ethical wills stands as a timeless testament to the enduring power of familial legacy. Ethical wills offer individuals a profound opportunity to distill their most cherished beliefs, principles, and life lessons i...
Wire Fraud is a Reality In today's interconnected digital world, wire fraud has emerged as a significant threat to individuals and businesses alike. This insidious form of cybercrime involves the unauthorized transfer of funds through electronic communication channels, often resulting in substan...
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