Summit Probate & Estate Administration Lawyer
Being tasked with the job of shepherding an estate through probate can seem overwhelming to grieving family members who are already dealing with loss and disruption without having to deal with complex legal and financial responsibilities that may be beyond their knowledge and experience. That’s why the Summit probate & estate administration lawyers at Dempsey, Dempsey & Sheehan are here to provide dedicated support to executors, administrators, trustees, and beneficiaries throughout every step of the process of probate and estate administration. Our experience in estate matters ensures that you have the guidance you need to fulfill your fiduciary obligations and settle estates efficiently and effectively.
Estate and Trust Administration Services
As a cornerstone of our practice, we assist executors, trustees, and beneficiaries in navigating the often-complicated process of estate and trust administration. Our services are designed to ensure that you’re fulfilling your legal duties, preserving the estate’s assets, and addressing all required documentation and filings.
Here’s how we can assist you:
1. Probate of Wills and Qualification of Executors
Probate is a necessary legal process to establish the validity of a will and allow the executor to administer the estate according to the deceased’s wishes. We assist executors in navigating probate court requirements, qualifying as the estate’s representative, and starting the administration process in compliance with New Jersey law.
2. Intestate Estate Administration for Heirs
When a person passes away without a will, New Jersey law governs the distribution of the estate. We work closely with heirs-at-law to guide them through the administration process, helping them qualify as administrators and manage the estate according to state guidelines. Our goal is to make the process as clear and manageable as possible for families handling the loss of a loved one.
3. Estate Tax Return Preparation and Filing
Estate and inheritance taxes are crucial considerations in the administration process. We prepare and file federal and New Jersey state estate tax returns, ensuring compliance with all requirements and helping to minimize tax obligations wherever possible. For beneficiaries, our careful tax planning can help to protect inheritances and ensure that distributions proceed smoothly.
4. Refunding Bonds and Releases
Once distributions are ready to be made, we prepare and file the required refunding bonds and releases. These documents are essential to confirm that beneficiaries have received their inheritance and release the executor from further liability regarding those distributions. We manage this process with precision, helping to protect the executor’s responsibilities and create a smooth closing of the estate.
5. Estate Accounting and Beneficiary Agreements
An executor or administrator must account for all estate-related financial activities and present an accurate accounting to the beneficiaries. We prepare these formal accountings and work with you to ensure that every transaction is recorded and reported. When beneficiaries are ready, we facilitate the beneficiary agreement to approve the accounting and release the executor from any further liability, making sure all parties are in agreement before the estate is finalized.
6. Trust Administration
In addition to estate matters, we provide comprehensive support for trust administration. Trustees are responsible for adhering to the terms of the trust and managing trust assets for the benefit of beneficiaries. Our firm offers guidance on trust accounting, asset management, and beneficiary distributions, helping trustees meet their fiduciary duties with care.
New Jersey and Florida Estate Administration for Summit Families
For clients who divide their time between New Jersey and Florida, our firm is uniquely equipped to assist with cross-jurisdictional estate matters. We can help you establish a Florida domicile and draft Florida-specific estate planning documents to ensure that your assets are effectively protected in both states. In addition, we can handle estate administrations in Florida, giving you peace of mind that your estate is being managed by a knowledgeable team, no matter where you are.
Why Choose Dempsey, Dempsey & Sheehan for Your Estate Administration Needs?
Handling an estate or trust can be a significant responsibility, and our team is here to make the process as clear and efficient as possible. Our experience with New Jersey probate courts and our deep understanding of fiduciary law allow us to provide you with the confidence and peace of mind that your duties are being handled properly. Our goal is to minimize stress, streamline the process, and protect both the estate’s value and the executor or trustee’s legal standing.
As a Summit-based law firm, we’re proud to serve our local community and those with estate interests in Florida. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your unique needs and how our dedicated team can provide the support and guidance you require.
Contact Experienced Summit Probate & Estate Administration Lawyers Today
Whether you’re facing probate, administering an intestate estate, or fulfilling trustee responsibilities, our team is ready to help. Reach out to us today by calling 908-277-0388 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you with all aspects of probate and estate administration in Summit and beyond.