Can a recorded deed override a will?

I agree with my colleague Mr. Popovich. I would add here that New Jersey law provides that in some cases -- again, consult an attorney -- that a...

Sounds like you have a few issues coming together here, and I advise you to see an attorney to help you untangle them. Briefly: (1) you mention...

Will I receive a step up in basis on property I inherited from my dad who created a life estate for his 2nd wife?

It sounds from your description that your step mother was given a life estate in the property, but that ownership was given to you. Please have an...

How much will a Probate lawyer charge for tranfering estate with no will?

There are two basic ways probate attorneys will charge for this kind of work. One is a percentage of the value of the estate's assets. The other is...

The executor of the estate is a fiduciary and must act in the best interest of the estate financially. Are you in touch with the executor? There...

Will I be able to leave all my assets to my significant other

Yes you should be able to, but unless you have formalized your relationship, your bequests to one another may be subject to inheritance tax. ...

Can I transfer Executor?

If your sister is named in the will as a backup executor after you, you can file papers with the surrogates court to renounce being executor, and...

Where should I seek council if an estate in dispute is in NJ but I live in CA?

I agree with Attorney Garland -- the law and therefore the attorney come from New Jersey, regardless of the beneficiaries' location. Having an...

If you cannot identify the attorney who drafted the will, contact the New Jersey State Bar Association. The Association has a trust and estate...

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Do I need a lawyer before I can deposit a will and open a probate case in NJ?

You do not need a lawyer for this step, and possibly not at all depending on the complexity of the estate. Make sure you bring the original, signed...