Sixty-two percent (62%) of American households include at least one pet.  Many owners view them as “family.”  Lawyers and pet owners need to be aware that the pet can be legally protected during the owner’s lifetime by a Durable Power of Attorney, and after the owner’s death either by provisions in a Will or by a Trust. » Read More

I recently contributed an article published in Network Magazine entitled “Effective Estate Planning: A New Era.” This article discusses effective estate planning and tax planning for individuals, common client misconceptions, and why effective estate planning is not only about the Will.» Read More

Many people are aware of the increased federal estate tax exemptions (approximately $11.2 million plus a COLA adjustment for a decedent dying in 2018 through December 31, 2025 and then reverting to $5.0 plus COLA) along with the elimination of New Jersey estate tax (but not its Inheritance tax which remains in effect). » Read More

Many of us who have pets consider them members of the family.  But legally, your pet is just another piece of personal property.  Would you want your beloved pet treated like your sofa or your television when you pass away?  What would happen to your pet if you became disabled? » Read More

I often advise clients to review their personal estate plan whenever a major life event impacts their lives, such as a marriage, divorce, birth or death.  This is especially true when my client is entering into a marriage or divorce, or has a new child.» Read More

Dearly Beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called intestacy (dying without a Will).

Legendary musical artist Prince Rogers Nelson died on April 21, 2016.  On April 26, his sister, Tyka Nelson, filed court documents in Minnesota indicating that Prince died without ever having executed a Will.» Read More