Estate Tax Planning Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ
An estate tax planning lawyer in Burlington County helps you structure your assets to protect your legacy and minimize tax burdens for your heirs. While New Jersey repealed its state estate tax in 2018, federal estate tax and state inheritance tax still apply, making proactive planning with an experienced attorney essential. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Estate Tax Law in New Jersey
Estate tax planning involves legally structuring your assets to manage potential tax liabilities upon your death. In New Jersey, this primarily means addressing the federal estate tax and the state inheritance tax. The federal estate tax applies to estates exceeding a high exemption threshold (over $13 million per individual as of 2026), while New Jersey’s inheritance tax is levied on assets transferred to certain beneficiaries, with rates varying based on the relationship to the deceased. Key statutes governing these areas include the NJ Uniform Trust Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq.) and the NJ Probate Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:1-1 et seq.).
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings decades of combined experience to estate planning. We focus on creating clear, enforceable plans that reflect your wishes and comply with state and federal laws.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New Jersey’s trust laws, refer to the New Jersey Legislature statutes. For local court procedures and forms related to probate and estate administration, visit the Burlington Vicinage court website.
Local Procedural Insights for Burlington County
In Burlington County, estate plans are administered through the Surrogate’s Court, often located within the county courthouse. A key local procedural fact is that an inheritance tax waiver must be obtained from the NJ Division of Taxation before many assets can be transferred to beneficiaries. This step can cause significant delays if not handled proactively. Our firm’s experience in this vicinage allows us to anticipate these administrative requirements.
Working with an estate tax planning lawyer in Burlington County involves several key steps:
- Initial consultation to review your assets, family structure, and goals.
- Analysis of potential federal and state tax exposures.
- Drafting of core documents like wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance directives.
- Implementation of the plan, including asset re-titling and beneficiary updates.
- Regular review and updates to the plan as laws or your circumstances change.
Consequences of Inadequate Planning
In Burlington County, failing to plan for estate and inheritance taxes can result in unnecessary tax burdens, family disputes, and prolonged probate proceedings.
| Issue | Potential Consequence | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|
| No Will (Intestacy) | State law dictates asset distribution, which may not match your wishes. | Increased administration costs and taxes. |
| No Trust for Minor Children | Court-appointed guardian manages assets, often with restrictive oversight. | Guardianship bond and ongoing court fees. |
| Unaddressed Inheritance Tax | Beneficiaries cannot access assets without a waiver, freezing accounts. | Tax rates from 11% to 16% for non-exempt beneficiaries, plus penalties. |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Executor or trustee can be sued and personally surcharged. | Removal, legal fees, and repayment of misused funds. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Estate Tax Planning
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys possess a deep understanding of the interplay between New Jersey’s inheritance tax and federal estate tax rules. We take a practical approach, designing plans that are not only legally sound but also understandable and manageable for you and your family. Our goal is to provide peace of mind through thorough preparation.
Our Approach to Estate Planning
We handle each estate tax planning matter with careful attention to your unique family and financial situation. We begin with a full review of your assets and objectives, then craft a plan using appropriate tools like revocable living trusts, irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILITs), and charitable giving strategies. We emphasize clear communication, ensuring you understand every document and decision.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 334-7467
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Burlington County, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings scheduled by appointment. An experienced estate tax planning lawyer in Burlington County is near you and ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Jersey have an estate tax?
No. New Jersey repealed its state estate tax effective January 1, 2018. However, the federal estate tax still applies to very large estates, and New Jersey’s inheritance tax applies to transfers based on the beneficiary’s relationship to the deceased.
Who is subject to the NJ inheritance tax?
It depends on the relationship to the deceased. Transfers to Class A beneficiaries (spouses, children, parents, grandchildren) are exempt. Transfers to siblings, sons/daughters-in-law (Class C) are taxed at 11-16%, and transfers to others (Class D) are taxed at 15-16%. A lawyer can help minimize estate taxes for non-exempt beneficiaries through strategic gifting and trust planning.
What is the main benefit of a trust for tax planning?
A properly structured trust can remove assets from your taxable estate, potentially shielding them from federal estate tax. Certain irrevocable trusts are particularly effective for this purpose. An estate tax planning lawyer in Burlington County can advise on whether a trust is suitable for your goals.
How often should I update my estate plan?
You should review your plan every 3-5 years or after any major life event (marriage, divorce, birth, death, significant change in assets). Tax laws also change, so periodic review with an attorney ensures your plan remains effective and compliant.
What’s the difference between a will and a living trust?
A will directs asset distribution after death and requires probate court supervision. A living trust also directs distribution but avoids probate, offering privacy and often faster administration. Both can be part of a full plan to minimize estate taxes, and a lawyer can explain which tools are best for you.
Related Legal Services in Burlington County
If you need other legal assistance, our firm also handles business law, civil litigation, and DUI defense in Burlington County. For more information on estate planning across New Jersey, visit our New Jersey estate law hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Camden County and Atlantic County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Estate Tax Planning Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Estate Tax Planning Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Estate Tax Planning Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.