Monmouth County Probate Lawyer Christine Matus Explains the Probate Process

Monmouth County probate lawyer Christine Matus releases a new article (https://matuslaw.com/your-guide-to-new-jersey-probate/) explaining the probate process in the state of New Jersey. The lawyer mentions that having a comprehensive estate plan is the key to making sure that a person’s assets are protected and can be passed on to their loved ones when they pass away. In order to understand the importance of estate planning, the most important step is to first understand the probate process.

According to the Monmouth County probate lawyer, “Probate is a process that occurs shortly after a person’s death. Here in New Jersey, it takes place no sooner than eleven days after a death. The steps of probate include validating the will, identifying the property of the decedent, appraisal of the decedent’s property, payment of the decedent’s outstanding debts, and payment of estate taxes. Depending on the size of the estate and how complicated its organizational structure is, the probate process can sometimes be very time-consuming. It can also become expensive as court fees add up.”

The lawyer explains that at the beginning of the probate, the executor of the estate is named in the will or appointed by a judge. The executor is also responsible for filing the paperwork that begins the probate process. This paperwork includes the certificate of death and application for probate.

Attorney Christine Matus adds that the probate court must validate the will, then the executor will notify creditors and family members that probate is taking place with a Notice of Probate. Without a will, the estate of a person will be distributed to their heirs according to the intestate law. The assets will be given to the person’s closest kin regardless of their wish.

“During the probate process, the executor must manage the decedent’s assets. This might include ensuring that property (such as a home) is cared for while it is appraised and potentially sold to pay off debts. In New Jersey, if a beneficiary has a developmental disability the executor is required to post a bond, except in cases of exemption, in accordance with Ronnie’s Law,” says the estate attorney.

Lastly, the lawyer emphasizes the importance of having a skilled estate planning lawyer. Having an experienced attorney may be able to help the family understand their rights and ensure that the assets are distributed according to the owner’s wishes.

About the Matus Law Group

The Matus Law Group has a team of estate planning attorneys who are committed to helping families and individuals in real estate transactions in New Jersey and New York. Through a team approach, they work hard to help their clients with their estate planning needs. Call The Matus Law Group today at (732) 785-4453.