Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning for New Jersey Families
Planning ahead isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about peace of mind. At our firm, we help families across Bergen County and throughout New Jersey create personalized estate plans that reflect their goals, protect their assets, and provide clarity for their loved ones.
Whether you need a simple will or a more complex trust, our
estate planning attorney in Bergen County
will walk you through the process with care and clarity.
Why Estate Planning Matters—At Every Stage of Life
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or the elderly. Young parents need to designate guardians. Families with blended households need to clarify inheritance rights. Retirees want to protect their legacy and minimize court involvement. No matter your circumstances, a thoughtful estate plan helps avoid uncertainty and gives your loved ones the tools they need to act on your behalf when the time comes.
We work with clients in Englewood, Hackensack, Teaneck, and surrounding communities to ensure their plans are tailored, legally sound, and built to adapt over time.
Key Documents in a New Jersey Estate Plan
A solid estate plan typically includes several core documents. Each plays a different role in protecting your wishes and easing the burden on your family:
A Last Will & Testament lets you name beneficiaries, choose guardians for minor children, and appoint an executor. In New Jersey, wills must follow specific legal formalities to be valid. Without one, the state decides who gets your assets—and it may not match your intentions.
Revocable living trusts can help you avoid probate, maintain privacy, and streamline asset transfers. Testamentary trusts (created through a will) can provide structure for minor children or beneficiaries with special needs. We’ll help you choose the right structure for your goals.
If you become incapacitated, your designated agent can handle financial and legal matters on your behalf. A
power of attorney can prevent court intervention and keep your affairs running smoothly.
This document outlines your medical preferences and names someone to make health decisions if you can’t speak for yourself. These were especially top-of-mind during the pandemic, but they remain critical in any emergency.
How We Build Estate Plans That Fit You
At our firm, estate planning is never one-size-fits-all. Our process begins with a conversation—learning about your family, finances, and goals. From there, we:
- Inventory your assets and discuss beneficiary designations
- Identify your priorities (minimizing probate, providing for minor children, charitable giving, etc.)
- Draft and explain documents in plain English
- Review everything thoroughly and make sure it aligns with your long-term plans
We’re known for being
extremely thorough, ensuring nothing is missed—like old account beneficiaries or overlapping guardianship provisions. Our clients leave with confidence, not confusion.
We Know Bergen County’s Legal Landscape
Estate planning is governed by New Jersey law, but how it plays out can vary depending on local court practices. We understand the ins and outs of Bergen County Surrogate’s Court, where probate takes place, and we help clients navigate what to expect—whether they live in Paramus, Fort Lee, or further north near Ridgewood.
We’ll also explain how state-specific considerations (like New Jersey’s inheritance tax) may affect your estate, and how to plan for those costs.
When to Update Your Plan
Life doesn’t stand still—and your estate plan shouldn’t either. You should review your plan anytime there’s a major life event, such as:
- Marriage or divorce (see our Divorce page)
- Birth of a child or grandchild
- Major financial changes
- Death of a beneficiary or executor
- A change in your wishes
We’re here to help you keep your plan current so it continues to reflect your values and protect your loved ones.
Plan Ahead with Confidence
Estate planning isn’t about preparing for the worst. It’s about making things easier for the people you care about most.
Contact our New Jersey wills & trusts lawyer today to schedule a personalized estate planning session. Whether you need to draft your first will or revisit an outdated plan, we’re here to help you make smart, confident decisions for the future.