Freehold, NJ Probate Attorneys

Have you lost a loved one? Are you facing the probate process and have no idea where to start or what’s required of you? Let our Freehold probate lawyers first express our sincere condolences for your loss. We understand that death can be overwhelming emotionally, financially, and legally, and that you may not have even heard of probate before. At the Law Offices of Patel & Cardenas, we are committed to explaining your next steps and simplifying the process. Our team can ease your legal burden and make this difficult time easier on you and your family. Call today to book a free consultation. 

What is probate?

Probate is a New Jersey court process that may need to occur after someone passes away and leaves assets and family members behind. It essentially is the legal method of ensuring that their possessions are officially transferred to the right people, either according to the terms of their will or, if they didn’t make a will, then according to New Jersey’s “intestate” laws. 

Unfortunately, probate usually cannot be avoided, even if the will is clear. Unless the deceased person had a trust (or a comprehensive estate plan), or owned their assets jointly with another person, or had beneficiary designations on their accounts, probate will likely have to take place before any of the heirs can inherit. 

Why do you need to work with Freehold probate lawyers?

If you have been named as the estate executor or personal representative in charge of overseeing the probate process, you have many legal responsibilities. You will have to:

• Submit the will to the local probate court
• File a petition with the court to begin probate
• Gather, inventory, and appraise the assets 
• Provide for the management or upkeep of the assets until probate is resolved
• Formally notify creditors, heirs, and the public
• Communicate with creditors to settle debts
• File final tax returns and pay taxes
• Distribute remaining assets to heirs
• Close the estate 
• And more. 

Any mistakes could leave you personally liable for the estate, and any disputes could lead to lawsuits. There is a ton of paperwork involved, which is the last thing you want to be dealing with while you are grieving. Probate tends to be cumbersome, expensive, and time-consuming (it can take months or even years before the process is wrapped up, depending on the size and complexity of the estate). 

That’s why it’s in your best interests to work with Freehold probate lawyers who can take care of 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 pitfalls (such as missed deadlines). 

Why choose the Law Offices of Patel & Cardenas to help?

Because probate can intersect with so many other areas of the law (including real estate law, litigation, estate planning law, etc.), it is to your advantage to work with Freehold probate lawyers who have a multi-disciplinary background! Our attorneys have helped over 1,300 New Jersey families with related issues; our extensive knowledge and experience allows us to handle even the most challenging probate situations with ease. We have been recognized and have received many rewards and 5-star client reviews for our ability to achieve favorable resolutions. Our goal is to keep your probate experience as smooth and cost-efficient as possible. However, if your rights or your loved one’s wishes are at risk at any point in the process, we aren’t afraid to advocate for you in court! Call today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about what we can do to serve you.