Probate in New Jersey | NJ Legal Resources | FastCounsel

Which Documents and Certificates Should Be Collected to Begin Estate Administration in New Jersey?

Detailed Answer When someone passes away in New Jersey, the personal representative (executor or administrator) must gather key documents to open the probate estate and distribute assets. Collecting these materials early speeds up court filings and helps avoid delays. 1. Certified Death Certificate Obtain several certified copies of the decedent’s death certificate from the local […]

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How Can Estate Expenses and Ongoing Bills Be Managed During Probate in NJ

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer 1. Obtain Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration To pay estate expenses and ongoing bills, you need court authorization. In New Jersey, you file a probate petition in the Surrogate’s Court of the decedent’s county along with the will […]

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How can a beneficiary compel an estate administrator to pay an inheritance share in New Jersey?

Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice; it is for informational purposes only. Detailed Answer As a beneficiary under New Jersey estate law, you have rights to ensure you receive your inheritance share. Below are steps to compel the estate administrator to distribute your share. 1. Review the Will and Letters of Administration Obtain […]

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How Does Intestate Succession Work in New Jersey When a Decedent Has No Spouse and Two Children?

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer In New Jersey, when someone dies without a valid will and leaves no surviving spouse but has two children, the entire probate estate passes equally to those children under the state’s intestacy rules. These rules appear in N.J.S.A. 3B:5-4(a). […]

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How Does Intestate Succession Work in New Jersey When No Will Exists and the Decedent Died with No Spouse and Three Children?

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about New Jersey intestate succession. It is not legal advice. Understanding Intestate Succession in New Jersey When someone dies without a valid will in New Jersey, the state’s intestacy statutes determine who inherits the estate. These rules appear in N.J.S.A. 3B:5-1 et seq. A decedent with no surviving spouse […]

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How Does Title Transfer for an Inherited Home With No Will and Multiple Heirs in NJ?

Detailed Answer When someone dies without a will in New Jersey, the state’s intestate succession laws determine who inherits real property. Under N.J.S.A. 3B:5-1, heirs include a surviving spouse, children, parents, or siblings, depending on which relatives survive. 1. Identify the heirs. If there’s a surviving spouse and children from the decedent, the spouse receives […]

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Can I Appeal a Probate Court Decision Removing a Personal Representative in NJ?

Appealing the Removal of a Personal Representative in New Jersey Probate Court Detailed Answer In New Jersey, the Surrogate’s Court oversees probate matters, including appointing and removing personal representatives (PRs). A PR can be removed for cause—such as misconduct, neglect of duties, conflicts of interest, or failure to account. See N.J.S. 3B:11-10 (removal of fiduciary). […]

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How do I determine who the intestate heirs are of my father's estate in New Jersey?

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer 1. Understanding Intestate Succession in New Jersey If your father died without a valid will, he died “intestate.” New Jersey’s intestacy statutes set out who inherits his assets. The […]

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Does the personal representative have to provide me a copy of the accounting in a probate matter in New Jersey?

Disclaimer This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer Under New Jersey law, a personal representative (executor or administrator) must prepare and file periodic accountings of estate administration with the Surrogate’s Court. These accountings track all receipts, […]

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How to Determine What Assets Remain in an Estate After Debts and Fees in New Jersey

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer When someone dies in New Jersey, the estate must pay debts and fees before distributing inheritances. The personal representative follows N.J.S.A. 3B:22-1 et seq. to inventory, value, and clear claims. Here are key steps: Inventory and ValuationUnder N.J.S.A. 3B:22-1 […]

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