Do I Need A Lawyer For Estate Planning In New Jersey?
We have all seen advertisements for “do-it-yourself” legal services. With all of the “canned” forms available, it is enough to make one ask the question, “Do I need a lawyer for estate planning?” The short answer is, “Yes, you probably do.”
Everyone’s situation is unique and a one-size-fits-all form cannot possibly account for all of the details that an estate planning attorney can help you identify.
Experienced Representation For Morris County And Beyond
At J. Jeffrey Press, P.A., attorney J. Jeffrey Press has decades of legal and trial experience helping individuals and families in Morris County and all throughout northern New Jersey plan for the future.
Estate Planning Is Not Just About Having A Will
When most people think of estate planning, they think of a will or a document that essentially says, “I leave such and such to so and so.” While a will can be crudely broken down in this manner, it is typically only one part of a comprehensive estate plan.
There are other documents, such as trusts, health care directives and other forms, that you will want to consider to ensure that your wishes are properly carried out and your interests are protected. An experienced estate planning lawyer can help you identify your goals and outline what exactly it is that you need to do.
Problems When You Execute A Do-It-Yourself Will
What happens if you leave the bulk of your estate to your spouse and then get divorced many years later? What if you remarry to a person who has children and you live happily ever after?
If you fail to update the estate plan that you created yourself, then your ex is still likely to inherit the bulk of your estate. Or you may attempt to update your plan but it will fail to meet the proper legal requirements, leaving your loved ones high and dry.
This is where having an attorney is helpful. We can help ensure that any changes to your estate plan are properly noted and drafted so that your family is not taken by surprise years later when a competing, contradictory estate plan is discovered.
We Can Help You Craft A Comprehensive Estate Plan. Contact Us Today.
An effort to save a small amount of money by doing something yourself can turn into a major expense if it is not done right. J. Jeffrey Press knows the law and can help you create or revise an estate plan that is tailored to fit your unique situation.
Schedule a consultation today. Call 973-323-2654 or contact us online.