Category Archives: Estate Planning
Estate Planning and Pets: An Overview of Your Two Main Options in New Jersey
According to data from World Population Review, nearly half of all households in New Jersey own a pet. Dogs, cats, and other pets can become truly beloved members of the family. Your pet should be part of your estate plan. Without a plan in place, your pet’s care could become uncertain if you pass… Read More »
Do I Have to Name an Executor in My Will in New Jersey?
Every adult in New Jersey should have a comprehensive will in place. A valid will in New Jersey does not strictly require you to name an executor. Leaving this role unfilled can create procedural complications. Indeed, without a designated executor, the probate court will appoint an administrator to handle your estate. That can lead… Read More »
Do Estates Always Go Through Probate in New Jersey?
When a loved one passes away, family members are often left wondering how the estate will be handled under New Jersey law. Probate is the legal process of validating a will and overseeing the distribution of assets, but not every estate is required to go through the full probate process. At Poulos LoPiccolo PC,… Read More »
Four Errors that Could Render a New Jersey Will Invalid
A properly drafted will is the foundation of any estate plan in New Jersey. Unfortunately, mistakes during the creation or execution of a will can cause significant legal problems for families after a loved one’s passing. If a will is found to be invalid, the estate may be distributed under state intestacy laws rather… Read More »
Estate Planning for Married Couples: Do Both Spouses Need an Estate Plan?
If you are married, you may be wondering whether it is worth the time and expense for both you and your spouse to create independent estate plans. The answer is a clear and resounding “yes.” If only one spouse has an estate plan, that leaves serious gaps. Here, our New Jersey estate planning lawyer… Read More »
Four Common Misconceptions About Special Needs Trusts in New Jersey
If you have a child, grandchild, or other loved one with special needs, it is imperative that you develop an estate plan that ensures that they are properly protected. A special needs trust is a powerful estate planning tool that can help to protect the best interests of vulnerable people. Here, our New Jersey… Read More »
You Should Review Your Estate Planning If Any of the Following Things Happened Since You Created It
Do you have an estate plan? It is important to make sure that your plan still effectively achieves your goals and protects your best interests. Estate plans should be reviewed and, if necessary, revised, on a periodic basis. It is a good idea to sit down and take a look at your estate plan… Read More »
Do I Need to Go to a Notary to Set Up My POA in New Jersey?
You should set up a power of attorney (POA) as part of your estate plan. A POA helps to empower a trusted loved one to act on your behalf if you become temporarily or permanently unable to do so. This raises an important question: Does a POA document need to be notarized? In New… Read More »
Estate Planning for Parents: How to Use Your Will to Name a Guardian
Parents need to set up a comprehensive, well-structured estate plan. One of the most important estate planning tasks for parents is to name a guardian for the child(ren). A guardian can take responsibility for a minor in the unthinkable event that something happens to the parent(s). Here, our New Jersey estate planning attorney for… Read More »
What Happens if You Leave an IRA to Your Children?
Have you saved money in an IRA or Roth IRA? Given their tax advantages, Individual Retirement Accounts can be a great tool to build wealth. You can and should name a beneficiary for your IRA. You may be wondering: Can I leave my IRA to my children? The answer is “yes”—though, there are some… Read More »
