Accomplished New Jersey Estate Administration Attorneys
Red Bank firm assists clients responsible for administering the distribution of assets
Serving as personal representative of a decedent’s estate is a serious legal responsibility. Many people who are named executor of a loved one’s will are not sure how to handle their duties correctly. Adding to the pressure, the necessary tasks associated with settling an estate start shortly after the decedent’s death. Parsons & Nardelli in Red Bank has relieved the burden of New Jersey executors and administrators for more than 50 years. Our seasoned attorneys provide insightful counsel at every stage of the probate process so that debts and other obligations can be addressed promptly and assets can be distributed efficiently.
Steps required to probate a will in New Jersey
Typically, New Jersey probate matters are handled by the Surrogate’s Court, though some wills are probated in the Superior Court’s Chancery Division. The process typically starts with the filing of the will by the person named as executor in the document. Unless a problem exists, that person will be appointed as the personal representative responsible for administering the estate. That position involves several tasks which must be completed correctly, including:
- Inventorying and valuing the decedent's assets and debts
- Notifying beneficiaries that they have been named in the will
- Contacting creditors and paying outstanding debts
- Filing returns and paying taxes associated with the estate and decedent
- Addressing will contests and other disputes that may arise
Our firm skillfully guides executors, as well as administrators of estates where the decedent died without a valid will, from start to finish. As a personal representative, you have a fiduciary duty to settle the estate in accordance with the terms of the will and with applicable law. Failure to do so could lead to squandered assets and possibly even personal liability. When you work with us, you’ll have the comprehensive legal support you need to fulfill your responsibilities effectively.
Challenges associated with the administration of a decedent’s estate
While many estates are settled without significant complications, there are various ways in which the probate process can get off track. In these situations, having a skillful trusts and estates attorney by your side can be the difference between a prompt and efficient resolution and a drawn-out standoff. If you’re dealing with a will contest, a dispute among beneficiaries, questions about the validity of a testamentary document or any other challenge, you can rely on us for clear-eyed counsel about your legal options. From there, we’ll work diligently to see that the decedent’s true intentions are honored.
Assets that bypass probate
If you are the executor or administrator of an estate, not all of the decedent’s assets will be transferred under your purview. Various types of property are not distributed through the probate system when someone dies, such as assets held in trust, jointly owned properties, accounts payable on death to a designated beneficiary and life insurance proceeds. Our New Jersey estate administration attorneys will review all of the assets owned by the decedent and explain how they will be allocated.
Contact a New Jersey estate administration attorney for a free consultation
Parsons & Nardelli in Red Bank assists with all types of estate administration duties for clients in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex counties. To speak with an experienced New Jersey lawyer in a free initial consultation, please call 888-309-5589 or contact us online.
