In New Jersey, an unmarried partner who is not a spouse, civil union partner, or registered domestic partner pays inheritance tax of 15% to 16% on what they inherit. Couples who are both 62 or older can register an NJ domestic partnership, which makes the surviving...
Last updated: October 2026 Yes, you can often modify a special needs trust in New Jersey, even when it's irrevocable. The main routes are the trust's own terms, consent under the New Jersey Uniform Trust Code, a court order, decanting under common law, and merging...
Special needs planning gets harder when a family does not fit the traditional mold. Most articles on special needs trusts assume one set of parents, one child with a disability, and one household. Real families in New Jersey often look different. Parents remarry....
Special needs planning is not one document you sign and file away. It is a process that changes as your child grows, from the early years of diagnosis and services, through the teen years, into the legal turning point of age 18, and beyond into adulthood. The tools...
If your child receives Supplemental Security Income or Medicaid, a direct inheritance can put those benefits at serious risk. It doesn't take a large sum. Even a modest bequest from a well-meaning grandparent or a life insurance payout with the wrong beneficiary can...
You've probably heard the statistics: nursing home care in New Jersey costs more than most families expect.As of 2026, a semi-private room averages around $11,619 per month. That's nearly $140,000 per year.From what we've seen in our practice, families often realize...
You know how it is. People create trusts thinking they've solved everything, but then life gets in the way. We've worked with dozens of New Jersey families who discovered too late that their trust was never properly funded. Their real estate stayed in their personal...
Planning how your assets pass to loved ones after death gives you control and peace of mind. A testamentary trust is one estate planning tool that can help, especially for families with minor children or relatives who need financial guidance. This guide explains what...
Worried about what happens to your money when you die? In New Jersey, probate can be slow and expensive. Smart estate planning can spare your family long waits and court costs. We see this every week in our law office. Many clients want a clean way to name a...
Losing someone you love is never easy, and dealing with their will can feel confusing and overwhelming. You might be wondering, "What do I do with a will after someone dies?" It’s okay to feel unsure during this time. We’re here to guide you through the first steps of...
