Blog: Estate Planning

undefined When planning for the future, many people assume that At For many modern families in New Jersey, What Is a Trust? A trust is a legal arrangement where one person (the grantor) places assets under the care of a trustee, who manages those assets for the benefit of chosen beneficiaries. Unlike a will, which only takes effect after your death, many trusts can be used during your lifetime – offering greater...

undefined In today’s technology-driven world, our lives are increasingly lived online. From financial transactions to social media interactions, digital assets have become an integral part of modern life. However, many people overlook these assets when creating an estate plan. Failing to include digital assets in your estate planning can leave your loved ones struggling to access important accounts or manage your online presence. With the guidance of an experienced Exploring the Range of Digital...

undefined Creating a comprehensive estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your assets and ensure your loved ones are cared for after you’re gone. Unfortunately, In this guide, we’ll explore frequent estate planning errors, offer practical advice, and emphasize the importance of professional legal assistance in New Jersey. Mistake 1. Not Having an Estate Plan at All One of the most significant mistakes is failing to create...

undefined As your parents age, the responsibilities of ensuring their care and financial stability often fall to their adult children. From managing healthcare decisions to protecting their assets, navigating the complexities of elder care in New Jersey can be overwhelming. Having a solid In this guide, we’ll explore essential elder law topics, such as guardianships, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, and how an estate planning lawyer can help you navigate the legal landscape...

undefined When planning for the future, one of the most important steps you can take is creating a comprehensive estate plan. An estate plan ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, your loved ones are provided for, and that your healthcare and financial decisions are carried out even if you are unable to make them yourself. At While every estate plan should be customized, there are several key documents that everyone...

undefined Planning for the future of a disabled family member involves navigating a complex web of legal and financial considerations. At Ritigstein Law, we understand the profound emotional and practical challenges families face in ensuring their loved ones receive the care and support they need. One of the most effective tools in this planning process is the Special Needs Trust (SNT). This article aims to provide comprehensive insights into Special Needs Trusts and how they...

undefined Planning your estate Trusts can be tailored for many purposes, but they are especially useful for protecting assets. Like your will, a Living trusts The two main categories of trusts are testamentary trusts and living trusts. Simply put, a testamentary trust goes into effect upon the person’s death. A living trust goes into effect while the person is alive. When you create a living trust, you place assets in a trust, where it...

undefined In New Jersey, the legal challenge of undue influence within Understanding Undue Influence in New Jersey What is Considered Undue Influence? Undue influence occurs when a person exploits their relationship to manipulate someone else's estate decisions. In New Jersey, proving undue influence involves demonstrating the influencer's motive and opportunity, leading to a will that deviates from expected norms. These cases, emotionally charged and legally complex, underscore the necessity for professional guidance. The Psychological...

undefined Estate planning Understanding Estate Planning Estate planning involves preparing for the distribution of a person's wealth, care of dependents, and management of assets after their passing. It's more than just wills; it includes appointing power of attorney, healthcare directives, and establishing trusts. A common misconception is that estate planning is only for the elderly or the ultra-wealthy. In reality, estate planning is a vital step for everyone, as it ensures that your wishes are...

Estate planning The Importance of Having a Will A will is a legal document that specifies how you want your assets distributed after your death. In New Jersey, if you die without a will (intestate), your assets are distributed according to state laws, which may not align with your personal wishes. Here’s why having a will is important: Control Over Asset Distribution Guardianship Decisions Minimizing Family Disputes The Role of Trusts in Estate Planning Trusts...