Estate Planning Lawyer in Union County, NJ
An Estate Planning Lawyer Union County helps you protect your assets and family’s future under New Jersey law. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for wills, trusts, and probate matters. Our firm, founded in 1997, has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We serve Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, and all of Union County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
New Jersey Estate Planning Law
Estate planning in New Jersey is governed by statutes like the New Jersey Uniform Trust Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq.) and the New Jersey Probate Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:1-1 et seq.). These laws establish the rules for creating valid wills, administering trusts, and distributing assets. A key fact for Union County residents is that New Jersey repealed its state estate tax effective 2018, but an inheritance tax still applies at rates from 0% to 16%, depending on the beneficiary’s relationship to the deceased.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statutes, refer to the New Jersey Legislature website. For local court procedures, visit the Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage website.
Local Estate Planning Process in Union County
In Union County, wills are probated through the Surrogate’s Court, which is located within the Superior Court complex in Elizabeth. The executor or administrator is formally appointed there. A critical early step is obtaining any required inheritance tax waivers from the NJ Division of Taxation, as assets cannot be fully distributed without them. Trust administration follows the procedures outlined in the New Jersey Uniform Trust Code.
- Initial Consultation: Meet with an estate planning lawyer to discuss your assets, family structure, and goals.
- Document Drafting: Your lawyer prepares your will, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance healthcare directives.
- Execution & Notarization: You formally sign the documents in the presence of witnesses and a notary to ensure validity.
- Safe Storage & Copies: Store originals securely and provide copies to your executor and trusted family members.
- Periodic Review: Revisit your plan every 3-5 years or after major life events like marriage, birth, or acquisition of significant assets.
Key Considerations in Estate Planning
In Union County, a complete estate plan addresses asset distribution, minimizes tax liability, and provides clear instructions for incapacity and healthcare decisions.
| Document/Element | Primary Purpose | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Last Will & Testament | Names beneficiaries, an executor, and guardians for minor children. | Must be probated through the Surrogate’s Court, which is public. |
| Revocable Living Trust | Manages assets during life and avoids probate after death. | Requires transferring asset titles into the trust’s name. |
| Financial Power of Attorney | Authorizes an agent to manage finances if you become incapacitated. | Can be springing (effective upon incapacity) or durable (effective immediately). |
| Advance Healthcare Directive (Living Will) | States healthcare wishes and appoints a healthcare proxy. | Guides medical professionals and family during critical care decisions. |
| Beneficiary Designations | Directs assets like life insurance and retirement accounts. | Overrides instructions in a will, so they must be kept current. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Estate Plan
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that a full estate plan lawyer Union County residents trust must be clear, legally sound, and case-specific to individual family dynamics and financial situations. We focus on creating plans that provide peace of mind and clear direction.
Our Approach to Estate Planning
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results. We apply this extensive experience to estate planning by taking a detailed, client-focused approach. We listen to your specific concerns about family, assets, and legacy to draft documents that reflect your precise intentions and comply with New Jersey law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Estate Planning Lawyer Near Union County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Union County, including Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, and I-78.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Estate Planning Lawyer Union County FAQ
Do I need a lawyer to draft a will in New Jersey?
Yes. While simple forms exist, a will and trust drafting lawyer Union County can ensure your document is valid under NJ law, avoids common pitfalls, and effectively addresses situations like blended families or business assets, preventing future disputes.
What is the difference between a will and a trust in NJ?
It depends on your goals. A will directs asset distribution after death but must go through public probate court. A trust manages assets during your life and after death, avoids probate, and offers more privacy. An estate planning lawyer can advise which tool, or combination, is right for you.
Does New Jersey have an estate or inheritance tax?
No state estate tax, but yes to an inheritance tax. NJ repealed its estate tax in 2018. However, an inheritance tax of 0-16% may apply to assets left to beneficiaries like siblings, nieces/nephews, or friends, but not to spouses, children, or grandchildren.
What happens if I die without a will in Union County?
You die “intestate.” New Jersey’s intestacy laws (N.J.S.A. 3B:1-1 et seq.) dictate how your assets are distributed, which may not match your wishes. The court will appoint an administrator, and the process often takes longer and costs more than if you had a will.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Every 3-5 years, or after major life events like marriage, divorce, birth of a child, significant change in assets, or a change in tax laws. Regular reviews with your Estate Planning Lawyer Union County ensure your plan remains current and effective.
Related Pages: For broader guidance, see our New Jersey Estate Planning Lawyer hub. For related legal services in the area, consider a Union County Business Lawyer or a Union County Civil Litigation Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Union 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 Union County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage (12th Vicinage), 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07207, telephone (908) 787-1650, 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 Union 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: Union County NJ lawyers directory · Estate Planning Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Estate Planning Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Estate Planning Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.