New Jersey Estate Planning Lawyer

At Putterman Legal, our Atlantic County family estate planning lawyer helps clients protect themselves and their family. As a law firm with extensive experience and specialized experience in estate planning, elder law, and special needs planning, we are well-equipped to address even the most complex legal matters. A comprehensive estate plan can help you get a true sense of security and peace of mind. If you have any questions or concerns about family estate planning, we are here to help. Schedule your initial consultation with our Atlantic County law office today for a completely confidential, no obligation meeting with a top-rated New Jersey family estate planning attorney. As a trusted resource, we proudly serve clients in Atlantic County and across New Jersey, providing dedicated and personalized legal services.

Every Adult in New Jersey Should Have a Personalized Estate Plan

You should have a personalized estate plan in place. As an adult, you are never too young or too old for an estate plan. A well-crafted, comprehensive estate plan can help to protect you and your family. The estate planning process involves creating key legal documents to protect your estate assets and ensure your financial decisions are honored. Without one, you will lose out on the ability to control what happens to your own property and assets after your death. New Jersey law will make the decision instead. Further, you could be left unprotected in the event of incapacity. An Atlantic County estate planning lawyer can help you develop the plan to best protect yourself and your family. Key estate planning documents include:

• Will;
• Trusts;
• Power of attorney (POA); and
• Living will.

A comprehensive estate plan includes various plans tailored to your individual needs, ensuring your estate assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes.

To make informed decisions about your estate assets and financial decisions, seek advice from an experienced estate lawyer who can guide you through the process and help you create the right documents for your situation.

A Change to Your Family Structure is a Great Time to Update Your Estate Plan

Estate planning has an intersection with family law. Any change to your family structure is a good time to have your estate plan reviewed by an attorney. It may also be the time to revise it to adjust for your changing needs. Whether you recently got married, divorced, had a child, adopted, or lost a loved one, your estate documents should reflect your current relationships and wishes. When updating your estate plan, it is important to consider the unique needs of each family member, including those with disabilities or special circumstances.

An outdated estate plan may be no more helpful than not having an estate plan at all. Indeed, an estate plan that has not been changed can create confusion, leave out important beneficiaries, or unintentionally benefit the wrong people. Creating or updating your documents ensures you maintain full control over your estates and helps avoid time-consuming administration issues that can arise if your wishes are unclear. Updating your estate plan helps ensure that your assets go to the right people and that your healthcare and financial preferences are respected.

Having updated estate planning documents does just that—protects your wishes and your loved ones.

Asset Protection Strategies in New Jersey Estate Planning

Asset protection is a vital part of any comprehensive estate plan in New Jersey. Estate planning attorneys understand that safeguarding your hard-earned assets is about more than just passing wealth to the next generation—it’s about ensuring your legacy is protected from unexpected threats like creditors, lawsuits, or business liabilities. Proper estate planning can help you create a plan that not only preserves your assets for your loved ones but also gives you peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored.

One of the most effective asset protection strategies is the use of revocable living trusts. By placing your assets in a trust, you can avoid probate, maintain privacy, and help shield your estate from certain claims. Trusts can be tailored to your unique needs, allowing you to retain control during your lifetime while protecting your assets for your beneficiaries. Additionally, forming business entities such as limited liability companies (LLCs) can separate your personal assets from business risks, providing another layer of protection.

Estate planning attorneys in New Jersey have in-depth knowledge of state laws and can help you develop a comprehensive estate plan that incorporates these asset protection strategies. Whether you are concerned about protecting family wealth, planning for business succession, or simply want to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, proper estate planning is essential. By working with dedicated professionals, you can create a plan that protects what matters most and provides lasting peace for you and your loved ones.

The Importance of Living Wills and Powers of Attorney

Including living wills and powers of attorney in your estate plan is essential for protecting your interests and those of your loved ones in New Jersey. A living will, sometimes called an advance directive, allows you to clearly state your preferences for medical care if you become unable to communicate your wishes. This document ensures that your healthcare providers and family members understand exactly what types of life-sustaining treatments you do or do not want, helping to avoid confusion or conflict during difficult times.

A power of attorney is equally important, as it designates a trusted individual to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated. This can include managing your finances, paying bills, or making critical healthcare choices. Estate planning attorneys can help you create these documents so they accurately reflect your values and wishes, and comply with New Jersey’s specific legal requirements.

By including a living will and power of attorney in your comprehensive estate plan, you take control of your future and provide clear guidance for your loved ones. These documents not only protect your rights but also offer peace of mind to your family, knowing that your affairs will be managed according to your instructions. In New Jersey, where laws regarding advance directives and powers of attorney are specific, working with experienced attorneys ensures your documents are valid and enforceable. Proper planning today can make all the difference for you and your loved ones tomorrow.

How New Jersey Family Estate Planning Attorney Bonnie Putterman Can Help

Every adult needs a comprehensive, personalized, and up-to-date estate plan. A top New Jersey attorney, Bonnie Putterman helps clients navigate complex estate planning issues, including after a divorce or separation. Our client testimonials explain what we can do for your family. We are proactive. Among other things, our Atlantic County estate planning lawyer will:

• Listen to what you have to say and answer your legal questions;
• Help you gather and prepare all of your estate planning documents; and
• Develop a strategy focused on best protecting your rights and future. 

Estate Planning in New Jersey: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Contact Our Atlantic County Family Estate Planning Lawyer Today

At Putterman Legal, our Atlantic County family estate planning attorney provides solutions-focused guidance and support to clients. If you have any questions about estate planning, we can help. Contact us today for a fully confidential, no obligation consultation. With a law office in Atlantic County, we provide estate planning representation to people and families across New Jersey.