A valid Last Will and Testament is the cornerstone of any estate plan: it spells out who receives your property, who cares for your minor children or pets, and who will settle your affairs after you're gone. Without one, New Jersey's default rules decide - often in ways that ignore blended families, charities, or special-needs dependents.
Your Will ensures that your wishes are legally binding and that your loved ones are provided for exactly as you intended. It eliminates guesswork and family disputes by clearly documenting your final instructions for property distribution and care arrangements.
The best time to create a will is now, while you're healthy and can make informed decisions about your legacy and how your property should be distributed. Here are the most common situations where having a will is essential.
When you have children, naming guardians and ensuring their inheritance is protected becomes a top priority that requires immediate attention.
As your property, investments, and savings grow, a will ensures they go to the right people and not to the state's default beneficiaries.
Marriage, divorce, remarriage, or changes in family circumstances require updating your will to reflect your current wishes and relationships.
Blended families, special-needs dependents, or charitable giving requires careful will planning that state intestacy laws cannot address properly.
Don't leave things up to chance. Create your will while you still can.