Bayonne, NJ Probate Lawyers

Are you currently going through the probate process after the loss of a loved one and don’t know where to begin or what to expect? Let our Bayonne probate lawyers first express our sincere condolences for your loss. We understand that death can be overwhelming emotionally, financially, and legally, and likely you haven’t been through the probate process before. At the Law Offices of Patel & Cardenas, we are committed to explaining your next steps and simplifying the process. By trusting us with your legal matters, you can ease your and your family’s stress during this difficult time. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. 

What Does Probate Involve?

In New Jersey, probate is a legal process that may be required when a family member passes away and leaves assets behind. In essence, it ensures that their assets and possessions are legally transferred to the right people, either according to their will or, if they did not make a will, then according to the “intestate” laws in New Jersey.

Unfortunately, in most cases probate is unavoidable, even if a person has a valid will in place. Unless the deceased person had a trust (or a comprehensive estate plan), or owned their assets jointly with another person, probate will likely have to take place before transfer of any assets to beneficiaries can transpire. 

How Can Our Bayonne Probate Lawyers Help You?

If you are named as estate executor or appointed to be the personal representative in charge of managing the probate process, there are many legal responsibilities you are required to handle which are both complicated and time-consuming. Some of these duties entail:

• Making formal notification to creditors, the public, and the beneficiaries of the deceased
• Making sure assets are gathered and cared for
• Taking inventory of and valuing possessions and assets
• Settling debts with creditors and/or negotiating creditor claims
• Paying outstanding tax debts and filing final tax returns
• Performing the distribution of assets in accordance with the will (or, in the absence of the will, in accordance with the New Jersey intestate laws)
• Providing a final accounting
• Interacting with the courts
• And more

If mistakes are made, you could be held personally responsible, and might have to face lawsuits to settle any disputes. Moreover, dealing with a pile of paperwork when you are grieving is the last thing you want to do. There are a lot of complications associated with probate, and it is often expensive and time-consuming (it may take years to resolve a probate case, depending on the complexity and size of the estate). 

In the end you are better off teaming with Bayonne probate lawyers who can handle everything for you. At the Law Offices of Patel & Cardenas, we can gather all of the necessary documentation, communicate with the right parties, and protect you from common probate errors (such as missed deadlines). 

Why Choose Bayonne Probate Lawyers To Help?

Because probate overlaps with so many other legal areas (such as real estate law, litigation, estate planning, etc.), it is to your advantage to work with Bayonne probate lawyers who have multi-disciplinary backgrounds. As New Jersey’s premier probate attorneys, we’ve helped more than 1,300 families with their probate issues. As a result of our ability to achieve favorable resolutions, we’ve been recognized and received many awards and 5-star client reviews. We strive to make the probate process as easy and affordable for you as possible. When your rights or the wishes of your loved one are at risk, we will stand up for you in court! Learn more about what we can do for you by scheduling a free consultation today.