Probate Attorney in Trenton, New Jersey
Trenton, New Jersey has a legal process known as "probate." This is when a court decides whether or not a will is valid, and, accordingly, whether or not to effectuate its provisions.
As part of the probate procedure, the court in Trenton, New Jersey will determine the validity of the will, inventory the decedent's assets and debts, then, assuming everything is found to be in order, distribute the estate according to the will.
Usually, the executor of the estate is named in the will. However, if nobody is named as an executor, the probate court in Trenton, New Jersey will appoint an administrator to serve the role as the executor. This is usually the closest adult relative of the decedent, or the person who stands to inherit the most.
The executor is the person who has to get the ball rolling on the probate process, and essentially serves as a living embodiment of the decedent's estate. It is their job to defend the estate from debtors (if a legitimate defense for the debt exists, of course), and wind up any legal proceedings that the decedent might have been involved in. If an executor needs to be appointed, a court usually chooses the person who will inherit the most if the will is given effect, since that person will have the most incentive to carry out the duties of the executor.
Duties of the Executor in Trenton, New Jersey
The executor has many duties concerning the will. First, they have to actually initiate the probate proceedings, which must be completed before the will is effectuated.
The executor also has to give those with a direct interest in the will notice that the decedent has died, by filing an official death certificate.
Because people who stand to inherit from the testator may be scattered around the country, or even the world, contacting them is sometimes difficult. One of the responsibilities of the executor is to compile a list of everyone who is entitled to inherit from the decedent, so attempts to contact them can be made. They also have to account for all the testator's debts and assets.
Finally, executors have to actually put forth the effort to prove that a will is valid. As the sole legal representative of the estate, this is their job, and is required for them to inherit, giving them an incentive.
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How Can A Trenton, New Jersey Lawyer Help?
Because this process can be fairly complicated, it is not a bad idea to consult with a good probate lawyer in Trenton, New Jersey, especially if you find yourself as the executor of an estate and don't know how to proceed.
There are 53 Wills, Trusts and Estates cases posted in Trenton
Cases Posted to LegalMatch listed by ZIP Code:Probate Attorneys in the Largest NJ Cities
Life in Trenton
Trenton is New Jersey's capital. It is seen as a part of the Greater New York Area by many. It is located in Hunterdon County.Popular attractions include Cadwalader Park, Friends Burying Ground, the New Jersey State House, War Memorial Auditorium, The Trenton City Museum, Trenton Battle Monument, New Jersey State Library, New Jersey State Museum, Old Barracks, William Trent House, and Trenton City Hall.
Trenton is home to many attorneys who practice in law offices and firms. These attorneys focus on providing excellent legal services to their clients, who comprise of both residents and local businesses.
Famous past residents include Steve Braud, Betty Bronson, Al Downing, Greg Grant, Roxanne Hart, Roy Hinson, Gary Stills, Troy Vincent, and Ira W. Wood.
