When planning for the final disposition of your estate in Orange, New Jersey, there are a few things you'll want to consider: who do you want to give your assets to, and under what conditions? Do you have any preference for how your funeral should be handled? Do you have any certain wishes concerning end-of-life care? These questions, and more, should all be taken into account.

Typically, the first thing a person thinks about when they think about estate planning is a will. A will dictates what happens to a person's property after they die. In general, you can leave your property to whomever you want, and attach almost any condition to such gifts. In the vast majority of estate plans, a will is the central component. It is rarely the only one, however.

In addition to a well-drafted will, a comprehensive estate plan should include things like a living will (healthcare directives made in advance, in case you become incapacitated and unable to make or express such decisions), funeral instructions, and instructions relating to organ donations.

Crucially, your plan should make arrangements for the care and custody of your children, if they are minors. However you should first discuss this matter with the person who you intend to take custody of your children in case something happens to you, to make sure they are willing and able to do so.

What Type of Estate Plan Do I Need in Orange, New Jersey?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs, your priorities, your health, and the size and nature of your estate.

For example, if you are in your 20's and unmarried, an estate plan probably does not need to be on your priorities, unless you are very ill, or independently wealthy.

If you're not married in Orange, New Jersey, but have a life partner, estate planning is necessary. If you want your partner to be treated as your spouse, your estate plan should make arrangements to give him or her power of attorney in the event that you become incapacitated. Additionally, your will should clearly name your partner as a beneficiary, if you want them to inherit any of your assets.

Individuals who are elderly and/or have a massive amount of money in Orange, New Jersey are probably more in need of an estate plan than almost anyone else. Most people place a lot of value in the peace of mind that comes when they know that the people they love, or the causes they care about, will be taken care of after their death. Of course, nobody likes to confront the facts that this process always contains, but it's essential.

Do I Need a Orange, New Jersey Estate Planning Attorney?

Because estate planning in Orange, New Jersey can involve some difficult legal and financial issues, it is essential to undertake this task with the guidance of an experienced attorney who specializes in estate planning.