Wills and Estate Planning

Wills and Estate Planning SAVE MONEY AND PROVIDE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES As average Americans, we work 80,000 hours in a lifetime, or 45 to 55 years. In spite of all the resources and assets we earn, the vast majority of us do not take the time to create a will. National statistics indicate that 80% of Americans die without leaving a will. There are several reasons for this: fear of death; procrastination; and misinformation (people presume that only the rich need to have wills). Whatever the excuse, it is clear that people would benefit from having a will. In the absence of a will or other legal arrangement to distribute property at death, the state must step in to administer the estate. The result can be lengthy delays before the rightful heirs receive their property. And because the state has no instructions from the deceased, no charitable gifts will be made. IF YOU HAVE NO WILL: If you leave no Will or your Will is declared invalid because it was improperly prepared or is not admissible to probate: * State law determines who gets assets, not you * Additional expenses will be incurred and extra work will be required to qualify an administrator * Judge determines who gets custody of your children * Possible additional State inheritance taxes and Federal estate taxes * If you have no spouse or close relatives the State may take your property * The procedure to distribute assets becomes more complicated-and the law makes no exceptions for persons in unusual need or for your own wishes. * It may also cause fights and lawsuits within your family When loved ones are grieving and dealing with death, they shouldnt be overwhelmed with Financial concerns. Careful estate planning helps take care of that. THE FOLLOWING IS A SAMPLE OF A VARIETY OF CLAUSES AND ITEMS WHICH SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A WILL: 1ST: DEBTS AND TAXES 2ND: SPECIFIC BEQUESTS 3RD: DISPOSITION TO SPOUSE 4TH: DISPOSITION OF REMAINDER OF ESTATE 5TH: CREATION OF TRUSTS FOR SPOUSE 6TH: CREATION OF TRUST FOR CHILDREN 7TH: OTHER BENEFICIARIES UNDER 21 8TH: EXECUTORS 9TH: TRUSTEES 10TH: GUARDIANS 11TH: SURETY OR BOND 12TH: POWERS 13TH: AFTERBORN CHILDREN 14TH: PRINCIPAL AND INCOME 15TH: NO ASSIGNMENT OF BEQUESTS 16TH: GENDER 17TH: CONSTRUCTION OF WILL 18TH: NO CONTEST CLAUSE A will must not only be prepared within the legal requirements of the New Jersey Statutes but should also be prepared so it leaves no questions regarding your intentions. WHY PERIODIC REVIEW IS ESSENTIAL Even if you have an existing Will, there are many events that occur which may necessitate changes in your Will. Some of these are: * Marriage, death, birth, divorce or separation affecting either you or anyone named in your Will *Significant changes in the value of your total assets or in any particular assets which you own * A change in your domicile * Death or incapacity of a beneficiary, or death, incapacity or change in residence of a named executor, trustee or guardian of infants, or of one of the witnesses to the execution of the Will *Annual changes in tax law MAY I CHANGE MY WILL? Yes. A Will may be modified, added to, or entirely changed at any time before your death provided you are mentally and physically competent and desire to change your Will. You should consider revising your Will whenever there are changes in the size of your estate. For example, when your children are young, you may think it best to have a trust for them so they do not come into absolute ownership of property until they are mature. Beware, if you draw lines through items, erase or write over, or add notations to the original Will, it can be destroyed as a legal document. Either a new Will should be legally prepared or a codicil signed to legally change portions of the Will. SAVE MONEY Your estate will be subject to probate whether or not you have a Will and in most cases, a Will reduces the cost by eliminating the requirements of a bond. With a well-drawn Will, you may also reduce death taxes and other expenses. Dont pinch pennies now to the detriment of your beneficiaries. We have attempted to briefly explain in this article some of the issues, techniques, and decisions involved in Wills, Estate Planning, and Administration of an Estate. Because the matters covered are complicated and the Federal and New Jersey laws frequently change, this article can only outline some of the many legal issues you should consider. The proper preparation of a Will should involve a careful analysis of the clients assets, family and his/her desires. Estate Planning is the process of examining what will happen to your property when you die and arranging for its distribution in such a manner as will accomplish your objectives. The cost of a Will depends on the size and the complexity of the estate and the plans of the person who makes the Will. A properly drawn Simple Will without Trust costs approximately $100.00 to $500.00. It is one of the most important documents you will ever sign, and may be one of the best bargains you will ever have. Be sure your Will takes into account the 1997 Federal Tax changes and all New Jersey Inheritance Tax changes. Also, ascertain if your Will is self-proving, which would dispense with having to find the Wills witnesses after death. WHAT IS A WILL? A Will is a Legal written document which, after your death, directs how your individually owned property will be distributed, who will be in charge of your property until it is distributed and who will take care of your minor children if the other parent should die . You should remember that the term property under the law includes real estate as well as other possessions and rights to receive money or items of value. Everyone who has at least $3,000 in assets should have a Will. You do not have to be wealthy, married, or near death to do some serious thinking about your Will. ADMINISTRATION OF AN ESTATE If you are named the executor or executrix, you must visit the County Surrogate to probate the Will. You will need the following items: 1. The Death Certificate 2. The Original Will 3. Names and Addresses of decedents, next of kin and will beneficiaries 4. Minimum of $80.00 for Surrogate fees A state inheritance tax return must be filed and the tax paid on the transfer of real or personal property within eight months after death. OTHER ITEMS OF CONCERN TO BE PREPARED BY YOUR ATTORNEY -Trusts (and Medicare Trusts) -Power of Attorney- to allow a trusted person to administer your assets during your lifetime, either upon disability or now -Living Wills- to state your wishes concerning medical care in the event of your serious illness. more info at http://www.njlaws.com/wills_and_estate_planning.html?

Guardianship of Disabled Adults

Kenneth Vercammens Office represents persons seeking legal Guardianship of a Parent or Adult Family Member. Occasionally an individual can not manage his or her life as a result of a mental or physical disability, alcohol or drug addiction. If a legally prepared power of attorney was signed, a trusted family member, friend or professional can legally act on that persons affairs. If a power of attorney was not signed, your attorney must file a formal complaint and other legal pleadings in the Superior Court to permit the trusted family member, friend or professional to be able to handle financial affairs. Powers of Attorney are generally given by one person to another so that if the grantor of the power becomes ill or incapacitated, the Power of Attorney will permit the holder of it to pay the grantors bills and to handle the grantors affairs during the inability of the grantor to do the same. A Power of Attorney is an appointment of another person as ones agent. A Power of Attorney creates a principal-agent relationship. The grantor of the Power of Attorney is the principal. The person to whom the Power of Attorney is given is the agent. We give the title attorney-in-fact to the agent who is given a Power of Attorney. Without a legal Power of Attorney or court ordered guardianship, even a spouse does not have the legal authority to sign their spouses signature. If a valid power of attorney is not legally prepared, signed and acknowledged in front of an attorney or notary, it is invalid. Without a power of attorney, a Guardianship Order and Judgment must be obtained from the Superior Court to permit complete legal decision making. According to Disability Law, A Legal Primer published by the New Jersey State Bar Association, A guardian is a person appointed by a court to make financial and personal decisions for a person proven to be legally incompetent. p11 1. When is a guardian needed? A guardian is needed when an individual can not manage his or her life as a result of a mental or physical disability, alcohol or drug addiction. The person for whom a guardian is appointed is called a ward. Disability Law at p11 Recently the legislation changed the designation of mental incompetent to incapacitated person in all laws, rules, regulations and documents. 2. What rights does a incompetent lose? Unless a Court orders otherwise, a ward/ incompetent does not have the right to decide where to live, spend money, use property, appear in Court or undergo medical treatment without the approval of his or her guardian. An unmarried incompetent also loses the right to marry. 3. How does somebody become the guardian of another? Guardians are appointed by Courts after the person in need of guardianship is proven incompetent. Guardianship actions can be brought under the general incompetency statute (N.J.S.A. 3B:12-25 et seq.) or under the statute dealing with people who receive services from the State Division of Developmental Disabilities. N.J.S.A.. 30:4-165.4 et seq. Guardians who are married to the incompetent or are parents of an unmarried incompetent can choose who will become the guardian after the guardians die and include a clause designating their successor in their wills. Disability Laws p12 Under the general incompetency statute, a Complaint requesting Guardianship must be filed in the Superior Court, plus a detailed Affidavit by the person requesting to be Guardian detailing the assets of the incompetent plus reasons why the incompetent is no longer able to manage their affairs. Affidavits of two doctors are also needed. The Court will appoint a temporary attorney to interview the incompetent and prepare a report to the Court. 4. Who can be a guardian? Generally, a close relative or a person with a close relationship to the proposed incompetent who will act to protect the incompetents best interests can be guardian. when a close friend or relative is not available, the Court may appoint the Public Guardian (for persons over 60) or an Attorney to serve as guardian. 5. What are the rights of the proposed incompetent prior to hearing? The proposed incompetent is entitled to receive advance notice of the guardianship hearing, to be represented by a lawyer and to present a defense at the hearing. 6. What happens if the incompetent regain the ability to manage his or her affairs? The incompetent came then go back to Court and ask to be made his or her own guardian again, but first must show that he or she has regained sound reason. 7. When is a guardian not needed? Just because a person has a disability, does not mean that they need a guardian. A guardian is not needed if a person can make, and understands the nature of the decisions, and communicate the decisions to others. A guardian is not required for someone who has a physical disability, but who can manage his or her affairs, and is not needed if a person merely has a problem managing money or property. Disability Law p12 KENNETH VERCAMMEN & ASSOCIATES, PC ATTORNEY AT LAW 2053 Woodbridge Ave Edison, NJ 08817  (Phone) 732-572-0500 (Fax) 732-572-0030 website: www.njlaws.com GUARDIANSHIP INTERVIEW FORM Please fill out completely and fax or mail back. This form is extremely important. Your accuracy and completeness in responding will help us best represent you. Please read our website article to help you understand how guardianships are handled http://www.njlaws.com/guardianship_of_disabled_adults.html?id=460&a= ALL THE PAGES AND SECTIONS OF THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO SEEING THE ATTORNEY. WRITE YOUR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS AT THE END OF THE LAST PAGE. PLEASE HELP YOURSELF TO THE FREE INFORMATION BROCHURES IN THE RECEPTION AREA. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Your Full Name: [Person Filling out Form] ______________________________________________________ First Last Street Address: ________________________________________ City ____________________ State ____ Zip Code _____________ Telephone Numbers: Cell: __________________________________ Day: ____________________ Night: ________________________ E-mail address: __________________________________________ Referred By: ___________________________________________ If referred by a person, is this a client or attorney? If you heard about this law office by the internet, which search engine? What search terms did you use? Todays Date ___________________________________________ 1. Name of person for whom you seek Guardianship: ________________ Guardianship Questionnaire rev 8/16/12 2. Current address and phone for incapacitated person whom Guardianship is sought: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ 3. Your relationship to person: _________________________________ 4. Incapacitated person is of the age of ________________., DOB _______ 5. The other kin of Incapacitated person are: ___________________, relationship _______________, residing at: ___________________, ___________________, relationship _______________, residing at: _________________, ___________________, relationship ______________, residing at: ____________________ 6. Name, address and fax number of Doctor 1 who will sign Affidavit that person is incapacitated: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ 7. Name, address and fax number of Doctor 2 who will sign Affidavit that person is incapacitated: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ 8. Is there a Will? _____ Did you bring a photocopy? ____ B. Is there a Power of Attorney? _____ Did you bring a copy? ____ C. Do You Have a Copy of the Deed? ________ ASSETS The court rules require details of assets be set forth in a Guardianship case. SCHEDULE A REAL PROPERTY If none, write none 1. Street and Number _____________________________________ Town: ____________________ Lot: ___ Block: ____ County: ____________________ Title/Owner of Record: _______________ Tax Assessor Assessed Value: $____________________ Full Market Value of Property: $____________________ Mortgage Balance: $______________________ Any other Real Estate: $______________________ SCHEDULE B (1) BANK ACCOUNTS, STOCK, CD, OTHER ASSETS All Other Personal Property Owned Individually or Jointly; Market Value, Indicate the Manner of Registration at Date of Death. If none, write none for each line Bank Accounts/ Brokerage Accounts - Name of Bank, Acct. # ___________________________________________ $_________ __________________________________________ $_________ ___________________________________________ $_________ __________________________________________ $_________ Stock - Name of Stock Co., Acct. # ________________ $_________ ___________________________________________ $_________ Investment Bonds., Acct. # $_________ ___________________________________________ $_________ Cars _______________________________________ $_________ Other assets over $10,000 ______________________ $_________ ___________________________________________ $_________ ___________________________________________ $_________ ___________________________________________ $_________ Liabilities More Than $2,000: If none, write none ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Estimated Gross Estate: $__________________________________ Set forth several specific acts of incompetency by the alleged incapacitated person: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ PLEASE USE THIS PAGE TO WRITE YOUR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS FOR THE ATTORNEY: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ KENNETH VERCAMMEN & ASSOCIATES, PC ATTORNEY AT LAW 2053 Woodbridge Ave. Edison, NJ 08817 (Phone) 732-572-0500 (Fax) 732-572-0030 website: www.njlaws.com  Guardianship Legal Services To Be Provided/Retainer FEE $_______________. [$2,500] 1. Legal Services To Be Provided. You agree that the Law Firm will represent you in connection with proposed Guardianship. 1. Office interview with client, office consult fee is $150.00, which is included in the Complaint preparation fee. 2. Review Guardianship Questionnaire filled out by client. 3. Obtain information such as name, address and telephone number. 4. Obtain information regarding value of real estate, life insurance and other assets. 5. Obtain information regarding estate and beneficiaries. 6. Obtain information regarding names of family members. 7. Discuss possible individuals to serve as Guardian. 8. Discuss Court procedures, answer legal questions. 9 Office conference, attend to signing of Complaint, Answer Questions and explain provisions. 10 Obtain clients email address to send updates. 11 Attend Hearing 12. Preparation of end of case letter to client after guardianship granted The legal work includes research, correspondence, preparation and drafting of pleadings and other legal documents, conferences in person and by telephone with you and with others, dictating and reviewing letters, negotiations, and any other related work or service to properly represent you in this matter. Please read our website article to help you understand how guardianships are handled http://www.njlaws.com/guardianship_of_disabled_adults.html?id=460&a= Documents we will prepare:  1. Opening of file and offer client information brochures 2. Draft Verified Complaint for Guardianship 3. Prepare Affidavit of Proposed Guardian in Support of Complaint for Guardianship 4. Affidavit of next of kin 5. Prepare AFFIDAVIT OF Doctor 1 6. Prepare CERTIFICATE OF Doctor 2 7. Letters to Doctors to be delivered by client 8. Prepare letter to client enclosing draft documents for client to carefully read 9. Prepare ORDER FOR HEARING 10. Contact client to request client have doctor sign affidavit 11. Attend to proposed Guardian signing complaint 12. Prepare letter to court with signed complaint and 2 doctor certificate 13. Prepare NOTICE to incapacitated person 14. Prepare and file CERTIFICATION OF SERVICE on incapacitated person 15. Prepare co to surrogate with NOTICE to incapacitated person of Complaint and Certification of Service 16. Prepare co to guardian with hearing notice 17. review attorney Guardian report 18. Prepare Guardianship Judgment 2. Costs And Experts. In addition to legal fees, you must pay the following costs and expenses; experts fees, court costs including Complaint filing fee payable to County Surrogate, certified mail notices, investigators fees, deposition costs, messenger services, and any other necessary expenses or out of pocket expenses. The Law Firm may recommend that experts be retained directly by you. You would then be solely responsible to pay the experts.The experts usually require they be paid up front. The Court will appoint an attorney to be a temporary law Guardian. The court will require either you or the Incapacitated person to pay the fees of the temporary law Guardian. Their fees are approx $1,500. 3. Other Legal Services. You and the Law Firm may make additional agreements to provide for legal services not covered by the Agreement. Without such agreements, the Law Firm is not required to do any of the following: (a) Provide any legal services after the judgment of the trial court; (b) Appeal any decisions of the trial court; (c) Enforce any judgment or order of the trial court; (d) Represent you in any other court or Tribunal 4. Fees. Fees can be paid by VISA, Master Card, American Express, check, money order or cash. Make checks payable to Kenneth Vercammen, P.C. As with most Attorneys, Fees are paid at the initial consultation and must be paid prior to documents being drafted. [Note- After the Guardianship Complaint is typed, there is a minimum $100.00 additional charge for complaint changes not set forth in the Questionnaire filled out by clients at the initial consult. The Deed needs to be signed within 20 days of initial consult or additional fee will be charged. We do not do Tax Planning or Medicaid Planning. The fee paid is non refundable.]

more info at http://www.njlaws.com/guardianship_of_disabled_adults.htm

Ten Estate Planning Ideas for Divorced or Separated Persons

Under the law in New Jersey, if a person dies without a Will and without children, their spouse will inherit all assets, even if they are separated from the spouse. In addition, if you have children from a previous marriage, but no Will, your separated spouse will get half your estate. In planning, make sure your assets go to your loved ones or favorite charity. Therefore, you may wish to do the following: 1) Have an Elder Law attorney prepare a Will to distribute your assets to the people you care the most about. If you already have a Will, prepare a new Will and have the old Will revoked. ( Your estate planning attorney will explain this to you.) 2) Prepare a Power of Attorney to select someone to handle your finances if you become disabled. Have your old power of attorney revoked. 3) Prepare a Living Will prepared 4) Change your beneficiary on assets you may own, such as stocks, bank accounts, IRA, and other financial assets. Change your beneficiary under your own life insurance, whether whole life insurance or term insurance. 5) Contact your employer's human resources and change the beneficiary on life insurance, pension, stock options or other employee benefits. Note that if you are not yet divorced, your spouse may have to sign a written waiver permitting you to change beneficiaries. 6) Keep your personal papers at a location where family can find them. 7) Have your attorney prepare a prenuptial agreement if you decide to get married. 8) Make sure the trustee for any funds designated for your children is the right trustee. 9) In New Jersey, if you are married and living with your spouse, under certain instances the surviving spouse has a right to elect against the Will The disinherited spouse may like to elect against the Will and try to obtain one third of the estate. Your attorney can explain how you can protect yourself and your children. 10) If you have minor children, nominate someone under a Will to serve as guardian to the children. Although the surviving parent obviously has first right of custody of children, they may not even want custody. CONCLUSION Planning can only be done if someone is competent and/or alive. Make sure your assets can be passed directly to your loved ones. more info at http://www.njlaws.com/10_estate_planning_ideas.html Estate Planning after Divorce or Break Up.          By Kenneth A. Vercammen, Esq. Author ABA’s “Wills & Estate Administration” book           If you do not write a Will, the government has already written one for you. Your assets go to whoever a state law says receives the assets, or to the government itself!           As average Americans, we work 80,000 hours in a lifetime, or 45 to 55 years. In the havoc after a break up, many persons forget to have a Will done to assure assets and decisions are taken out of the hands or the ex spouse and ex spouse’s family.          In spite of all our resources and the assets we earn during our lifetime, the vast majority of Americans do not take the time to create the legal instructions to guide the court or a guardian upon their death. National statistics indicate that more than 50% of Americans foolishly die without leaving a Will. In the absence of a Will  or other legal arrangement to distribute property at death, the problems often arise and a Judges decides who gets custody of your children and handles your money. This process is called the law of intestacy. The result can be lengthy delays in the distribution of your estate, court battles between relatives and your children being raised by someone you do not favor. Without a Will, your family will have to pay substantial costs for accountants, attorneys, bonding companies and probate fees.          In planning, make sure your assets go to your loved ones or favorite charity, not an "ex". Therefore, we advise our separated or divorced clients to do the following: 1)            Have an Estate Planning Law attorney prepare a Will to distribute your assets to the people you care about the most. If you already have a Will, prepare a new Will and have the old Will revoked. (Your estate planning attorney will explain this to you.) Usually a new executor is selected, who will also serve as funeral agent.           Although in many states under law a divorce removes the ex spouse as a beneficiary, it does not remove the ex as executor or receiving assets under a bank POD or joint account. Don’t ever use with a cheap online form that often is not filled out correctly. Self prepared documents are often not witnessed right and are not admitted to probate. Have an experienced attorney prepare the estate planning documents who will do it right. I could change my car oil and repair the lawnmower, but I now prefer an experienced mechanic do that. You can also create specific bequests so nice jewelry or family heirlooms go to a selected child. Otherwise the executor can just sell them at the pawn shop. You can also direct in your Will a child be excluded from inheriting. Example- they testified against you in divorce court.          2)  Prepare a Power of Attorney to select someone to handle your finances if you become disabled. Have your old Power of Attorney revoked. This means your attorney or you should send notices to banks and your accounts to indicate the prior Power of Attorney is invalid. If you have children over age 18, have your attorney prepare a Power of Attorney for the  over 18 children so the custodial parent can still have access to their records and pay their bills if they are in an accident. 3)  Select a new beneficiary on assets you may own, such as stocks, transfer upon death brokerage accounts, bank accounts, IRA, retirement accounts, 401k, payable upon death accounts POD , and other financial assets. Make sure you see the actual change in beneficiary in writing. Don’t rely on a phone call from the company that accounts are revised. Even if a court approved divorce decree states that a beneficiary should be changed, make sure you have changed the beneficiary designations. Remember, even a new Will does not change account beneficiaries on non-probate assets.           Change passwords on all online accounts and notify them in writing that the former spouse is not permitted excess to records. 4)  Change your beneficiary under your own life insurance, whether whole life insurance or term insurance. Again, don’t just rely on language in a divorce decree to make sure your wishes are followed. If the ex-spouse is required to obtain life insurance to pay to you or your children, you want to see proof of the insurance in writing with beneficiary designation. 5)  Contact your employer's human resources and change the beneficiary on pension, stock options, life insurance,  and other employee benefits. Note that if you are not yet divorced, your spouse may have to sign a written waiver permitting you to change beneficiaries. 6)  Keep your personal papers at a location where an ex-spouse or the child's parent can't steal or destroy them.  7)  If you have minor children, nominate someone under a Will to serve as guardian to the children. Although the surviving parent obviously has first right of custody of children, they may not even want custody. You don’t want your ex in-laws to have custody of your children or access to the children’s money. A new Will specifically shows a Surrogate and Probate Judge you’re your wishes are. If no Will, then a judge can only guess.          Also set up a Trust in the Will so children and grandchildren receive funds when they are 21, 25 and 30. Preserve money for college and necessary expenses, not a windfall to buy an expensive car when they turn 18. Also don’t make the minor children beneficiary of big life insurance policies, because they automatically receive when they turn 18. Instead, you can make your estate the beneficiary of life insurance and other accounts. How many 18 year old kids would spend money wisely? Seek assistance of estate planning attorney, don’t try to do everything yourself.          A trust also protects the beneficiary if there is a lawsuit and judgment against them. 8)  Make sure the trustee for any funds designated for your children is the "right" trustee. The former in laws may no longer be the best choice. 9) Re-title real estate, cars and other assets in joint names. Usually a new Deed will have to be prepared. If there is a mortgage, either a refinance or consent of mortgage company to remove your name from the mortgage. [Good luck with that.] 10)  In New Jersey, if you are still married and living with a spouse, under certain instances the surviving spouse has a right to "elect against the Will".      The disinherited spouse may try to elect against the Will and try to obtain one  third of the estate. Your attorney can explain how you can protect yourself and your children.      11) Have a new Living Will / Advance Directive for health care/ medical proxy prepared to remove the ex and select a family member you trust with last medical wishes. The Living Will should contain new HIPPA language to advise doctors and hospital who should have access to medical information. You don’t want an estranged person to be able to make Medical decisions or “Pull the plug”. A divorce decree does not remove the ex-spouse on Medical Power of Attorney/ Living Will. They should have a new Living Will prepared. Separated persons           Some clients are not aware they can have a new Will and other estate planning documents prepared prior to a formal divorce decree. To the contrary, our office drafts Will for individuals in marital difficulty who want to protect their assets and children in the event of an unexpected, sudden death.  A personal can have a new Will and estate planning documents without telling their spouse.           If spouses are living together, the surviving spouse in many states can Elect against the Will and obtain 1/3 of the augmented estate. See Uniform Probate Code 2-201. A married person can also confidentially revoke a Power of Attorney, Living Will, Trust etc. However, the original attorney cannot prepare new documents if the attorney also prepared documents for the other spouse. The original attorney in some states may be required to notify the other spouse. Therefore, a new, independent attorney is suggested whose only loyalty is to you.           It is important to prepare new documents if separation has started or is inevitable since someone does not want their some of be ex to make financial and medical decisions. However, typically a spouse cannot be removed as a beneficiary under pensions, etc without that spouse’s written consent.           You can select a funeral agent so your estranged spouse does not handle funeral arrangements.           Also speak with your divorce attorney to inquire if you can take out 50%  of assets in a joint account and deposit in a new account payable death to adult children, not the estranged spouse.           If you own a small business, prepare a contingency plan if you become disabled for someone to run your business.           Second marriage          If you decide to get remarried, have your attorney prepare a prenuptial agreement, so your children can inherit your assets.  You want your children, not new spouse, to receive your assets if you pass away. In many states, persons put their assets into Trusts for the benefit of a child. However, if the trust is revocable, Medicaid will include the trust assets as available money. In blended families, irrevocable trusts are useful because a Will can be revocable by a competent person without telling their spouse.           If You Have No Will after someone divorces:                                          If you leave no Will or your Will is declared invalid because it was improperly prepared or is not admissible to probate: 1. People you dislike or people who dislike and ignore you may get some of your assets or control assets. If you are not divorced and die without a Will, under the uniform probate code your spouse will receive 100%  of your estate if all the children are from the same relationship. State law determines who gets assets, not you. 2. If you have minor children, the County Surrogate will hold the child’s money until age 18 and it is difficult and time consuming to petition the Surrogate to release funds for payment of tuition, medical bills, clothing etc. 3. Additional expenses will be incurred and extra work will be required to qualify an administrator-Surety Bond, additional costs and legal fees 4. You Lose the opportunity to work with your attorney to try to reduce Estate Tax, State inheritance taxes and Federal estate taxes 5. A Judge determines who gets custody of minor children. A greedy brother or crazy mother in law could ask the court for custody. The parent of your children may try to control the assets of your children and not properly spend the money 6. It probably will cause fights and lawsuits within your family           ESTATE PLANNING TO PROTECT CHILDREN         There may come a time when an unmarried parent is unable, due to physical or mental incapacity, to take care of their minor children. If a parent dies, the minor children will need a guardian. In these circumstances, those caring for the children, as well as the courts will need direction. By writing and executing a Will, which includes instructions on guardianship one may select someone, either individually or jointly, with the legal authority to act for minor children and assume control over the assets of the children. Estate planning, which includes the execution of a Will, is just as important for persons with minor children as they are for senior citizens. Guardians      Most individuals appoint the parent to act as Guardian of the person and property of their minor children. It is suggested that your Will include a clause which provides that in the event the other parent predeceases you, or is unsuitable or ceases to act as Guardian of the person and property of your minor children, you appoint a trusted family member or close friend to act as successor Guardian of the person and property of your minor children.           Sometimes the divorce is amicable and the person may still wish to have their ex –spouse be executor of their Will or Trustee of a trust for children. New estate planning documents should still be signed after the divorce to confirm they want to ex to remain involved in a potential estate. Trustee for funds      Select a trusted person, your close relative or friends, who will invest and hold your children's money. If divorced or unmarried, most people do not select the other parent. In your Will and Trust you can instruct the Trustee to apply amounts of income and principal as they, in their sole discretion, deem proper for the health, maintenance, education, welfare, or support of your children or other minors. Direct that the trustee shall accumulate any income not needed for the above purposes, paying and transferring the portion held in trust to the beneficiary upon his or her attaining the age of majority or whichever age you select.       Conclusion         While the preceding article contains possible items to be discussed with your family, attorney  and executor, the article is by no means exhaustive.  A number of these items may not be applicable in your situation, and probably there are many others that are applicable.  The essential element is to spend some time now considering what you should tell those most closely associated with you to facilitate their handling of your affairs upon your death.

Removing an Executor from an Estate

by Kenneth A. Vercammen, Esq. Under New Jersey Law, the people selected as an executor of a Will have numerous legal responsibilities following the death of the person who signed the Will. Primarily, they have a duty to probate the Will, liquidate assets, pay bills and taxes, file all necessary court and tax returns, and then distribute the assets to beneficiaries. If there is no will, someone can petition the surrogate to be appointed as "administrator" of the estate. In New Jersey, the court and surrogate do not supervise how an executor or administrator handles the estate. Unfortunately, the Executor occasionally fails to timely carry out their duties. They may fail to file tax returns, fail to keep records, misappropriate funds or ignore instructions under the Will. If you are not satisfied with the handling of the estate, you can have an attorney file a Complaint in the Superior Court. The New Probate Statute of NJ revised various sections of the New Jersey law on Wills and estates. law makes a number of substantial changes to the provisions governing the administration of estates and trusts in New. Duty of Executor in Probate & Estate Administration 1. Conduct a thorough search of the decedents personal papers and effects for any evidence which might point you in the direction of a potential creditor; 2. Carefully examine the decedents checkbook and check register for recurring payments, as these may indicate an existing debt; 3. Contact the issuer of each credit card that the decedent had in his/her possession at the time of his/ her death; 4. Contact all parties who provided medical care, treatment, or assistance to the decedent prior to his/her death; Your attorney will not be able to file the NJ inheritance tax return until it is clear as to the amounts of the medical bills and other expenses. Medical expenses can be deducted in the inheritance tax. Under United States Supreme Court Case, Tulsa Professional Collection Services, Inc., v. Joanne Pope, Executrix of the Estate of H. Everett Pope, Jr., Deceased, the Personal Representative in every estate is personally responsible to provide actual notice to all known or "readily ascertainable" creditors of the decedent. This means that is your responsibility to diligently search for any "readily ascertainable" creditors. Other duties/ Executor to Do Bring Will to Surrogate Apply to Federal Tax ID # Set up Estate Account at bank (pay all bills from estate account) Pay Bills Notice of Probate to Beneficiaries (Attorney can handle) If charity, notice to Atty General (Attorney can handle) File notice of Probate with Surrogate (Attorney can handle) File first Federal and State Income Tax Return [CPA- ex Marc Kane] Prepare Inheritance Tax Return and obtain Tax Waivers (Attorney can handle) File waivers within 8 months upon receipt (Attorney can handle) Prepare Informal Accounting Prepare Release and Refunding Bond (Attorney can handle) Obtain Child Support Judgment clearance (Attorney will handle) Lets review the major duties involved- In General. The executors job is to (1) administer the estate--i.e., collect and manage assets, file tax returns and pay taxes and debts--and (2) distribute any assets or make any distributions of bequests, whether personal or charitable in nature, as the deceased directed (under the provisions of the Will). Lets take a look at some of the specific steps involved and what these responsibilities can mean. Chronological order of the various duties may vary. Probate. The executor must "probate" the Will. Probate is a process by which a Will is admitted. This means that the Will is given legal effect by the court. The courts decision that the Will was validly executed under state law gives the executor the power to perform his or her duties under the provisions of the Will. An employer identification number ("EIN") should be obtained for the estate; this number must be included on all returns and other tax documents having to do with the estate. The executor should also file a written notice with the IRS that he/she is serving as the fiduciary of the estate. This gives the executor the authority to deal with the IRS on the estates behalf. Pay the Debts. The claims of the estates creditors must be paid. Sometimes a claim must be litigated to determine if it is valid. Any estate administration expenses, such as attorneys, accountants and appraisers fees, must also be paid. Manage the Estate. The executor takes legal title to the assets in the probate estate. The probate court will sometimes require a public accounting of the estate assets. The assets of the estate must be found and may have to be collected. As part of the asset management function, the executor may have to liquidate or run a business or manage a securities portfolio. To sell marketable securities or real estate, the executor will have to obtain stock power, tax waivers, file affidavits, and so on. Take Care of Tax Matters. The executor is legally responsible for filing necessary income and estate-tax returns (federal and state) and for paying all death taxes (i.e., estate and inheritance). The executor can, in some cases be held personally liable for unpaid taxes of the estate. Tax returns that will need to be filed can include the estates income tax return (both federal and state), the federal estate-tax return, the state death tax return (estate and/or inheritance), and the deceaseds final income tax return (federal and state). Taxes usually must be paid before other debts. In many instances, federal estate-tax returns are not needed as the size of the estate will be under the amount for which a federal estate-tax return is required. Often it is necessary to hire an appraiser to value certain assets of the estate, such as a business, pension, or real estate, since estate taxes are based on the "fair market" value of the assets. After the filing of the returns and payment of taxes, the Internal Revenue Service will generally send some type of estate closing letter accepting the return. Occasionally, the return will be audited. Distribute the Assets. After all debts and expenses have been paid, the executor will distribute the assets. Frequently, beneficiaries can receive partial distributions of their inheritance without having to wait for the closing of the estate. Under increasingly complex laws and rulings, particularly with respect to taxes, in larger estates an executor can be in charge for two or three years before the estate administration is completed. If the job is to be done without unnecessary cost and without causing undue hardship and delay for the beneficiaries of the estate, the executor should have an understanding of the many problems involved and an organization created for settling estates. In short, an executor should have experience At some point in time, you may be asked to serve as the executor of the estate of a relative or friend, or you may ask someone to serve as your executor. An executors job comes with many legal obligations. Under certain circumstances, an executor can even be held personally liable for unpaid estate taxes. Lets review the major duties involved, which weve set out below. In General. The executors job is to (1) administer the estate--i.e., collect and manage assets, file tax returns and pay taxes and debts--and (2) distribute any assets or make any distributions of bequests, whether personal or charitable in nature, as the deceased directed (under the provisions of the Will). Lets take a look at some of the specific steps involved and what these responsibilities can mean. Chronological order of the various duties may vary. Probate. The executor must "probate" the Will. Probate is a process by which a Will is admitted. This means that the Will is given legal effect by the court. The courts decision that the Will was validly executed under state law gives the executor the power to perform his or her duties under the provisions of the Will. An employer identification number ("EIN") should be obtained for the estate; this number must be included on all returns and other tax documents having to do with the estate. The executor should also file a written notice with the IRS that he/she is serving as the fiduciary of the estate. This gives the executor the authority to deal with the IRS on the estates behalf. Pay the Debts. The claims of the estates creditors must be paid. Sometimes a claim must be litigated to determine if it is valid. Any estate administration expenses, such as attorneys, accountants and appraisers fees, must also be paid. Manage the Estate. The executor takes legal title to the assets in the probate estate. The probate court will sometimes require a public accounting of the estates assets. The assets of the estate must be found and may have to be collected. As part of the asset management function, the executor may have to liquidate or run a business or manage a securities portfolio. To sell marketable securities or real estate, the executor will have to obtain stock power, tax waivers, file affidavits, and so on. Take Care of Tax Matters. The executor is legally responsible for filing necessary income and estate-tax returns (federal and state) and for paying all death taxes (i.e., estate and inheritance). The executor can, in some cases be held personally liable for unpaid taxes of the estate. Tax returns that will need to be filed can include the estates income tax return (both federal and state), the federal estate-tax return, the state death tax return (estate and/or inheritance), and the deceaseds final income tax return (federal and state). Taxes usually must be paid before other debts. In many instances, federal estate-tax returns are not needed as the size of the estate will be under the amount for which a federal estate-tax return is required. Often it is necessary to hire an appraiser to value certain assets of the estate, such as a business, pension, or real estate, since estate taxes are based on the "fair market" value of the assets. After the filing of the returns and payment of taxes, the Internal Revenue Service will generally send some type of estate closing letter accepting the return. Occasionally, the return will be audited. Distribute the Assets. After all debts and expenses have been paid, the distribute the assets with extra attention and meticulous bookkeeping by the executor. Frequently, beneficiaries can receive partial distributions of their inheritance without having to wait for the closing of the estate. Under increasingly complex laws and rulings, particularly with respect to taxes, in larger estates an executor can be in charge for two or three years before the estate administration is completed. If the job is to be done without unnecessary cost and without causing undue hardship and delay for the beneficiaries of the estate, the executor should have an understanding of the many problems involved and an organization created for settling estates. COMPLAINT FOR ACCOUNTING A Complaint for Accounting is filed with the Probate Part to request on accounting, removal of the current executor and selection of a new person to administer and wrap up the estate. A signed certification of one or more beneficiaries is needed. In addition, an Order to Show Cause is prepared by your attorney. The Order to Show Cause is to be signed by the Judge directing the executor, through their attorney, to file a written answer to the complaint, as well as appear before the court at a specific date and time. As with a litigated court matter, trials can become expensive. Competent elder law/probate attorney may charge an hourly rate of $225-$350 per hour, with a retainer of $3000 needed. Attorneys will require the retainer to be paid in full up front. The plaintiff can demand the following: (1) That the named executor be ordered to provide an accounting of the estate to plaintiff. (2) Defendant, be ordered to provide an accounting for all assets of d1 dated five years prior to death. (3) Payment of plaintiffs attorneys fees and costs of suit for the within action. (4) Declaring a constructive trust of the assets of the decedent for the benefit of the plaintiff and the estate. (5) That the executor be removed as the executor/administrator of the estate and that p1 be named as administrator of the estate. (6) That the executor be barred from spending any estate funds, be barred from paying any bills, be barred from taking a commission, be barred from writing checks, be barred from acting on behalf of the estate, except as specifically authorized by Superior Court Order or written consent by the plaintiff. EXECUTORS COMMISSIONS Executors are entitled to receive a commission to compensate them for work performed. Under NJSA 3B:18-1 et seq., Executors, administrators and other fiduciaries are entitled to receive a commission on both the principal of the estate, and the income earned by assets. However, if you have evidence that the executor has breached their fiduciary duties or violated a law, your Superior Court accounting complaint can request that the commissions be reduced or eliminated. SALE OF REAL ESTATE AND OTHER PROPERTY Occasionally, a family member is living in a home owned by the decedent. To keep family harmony, often this family member is permitted to remain in the home temporarily. However, it may later become clear that the resident has no desire on moving, and the executor has neither an intention to make them move nor to sell the house. The remedy a beneficiary has can be to have your attorney include in the Superior Court complaint a count to 1) remove the executor 2) remove the tenant and make them pay rent to the estate for the time they used the real property since death without paying rent 3) compel the appraisal of the home and, thereafter, the sale of the property 4) make the executor reimburse the estate for the neglect or waste of assets. CONCLUSION As a beneficiary, you will probably eventually be requested to sign a release and refunding bond. If you have evidence of misappropriation, you may consider asking the executor for an informal accounting prior to signing the release and refunding bond. If you have concern regarding the handling of an estate, schedule an appointment to consult an elder law attorney. Kenneth A. Vercammen is a Middlesex County, NJ trial attorney who has published 125 articles in national and New Jersey publications on Probate and litigation topics. He often lectures to trial lawyers of the American Bar Association, New Jersey State Bar Association and Middlesex County Bar Association. He is Chair of the American Bar Association Estate Planning & Probate Committee. He is also Editor of the ABA Elder Law Committee Newsletter He is a highly regarded lecturer on litigation issues for the American Bar Association, ICLE, New Jersey State Bar Association and Middlesex County Bar Association. His articles have been published by New Jersey Law Journal, ABA Law Practice Management Magazine, and New Jersey Lawyer. He is the Editor in Chief of the New Jersey Municipal Court Law Review. Mr. Vercammen is a recipient of the NJSBA- YLD Service to the Bar Award. In his private practice, he has devoted a substantial portion of his professional time to the preparation and trial of litigated matters. He has appeared in Courts throughout New Jersey several times each week on many personal injury matters, Municipal Court trials, and contested Probate hearings.

Wills, Children and Guardians

Wills, Children & Guardians There may come a time when a parent is unable, due to physical or mental incapacity, to take care of their minor children. In these circumstances, those caring for the children as well as the courts will need direction. By writing and executing a Will which includes instructions on guardianship one may select someone, either individually or jointly, with the legal authority to act for minor children and assume control over the assets of the children. Estate planning, which includes the execution of a Will, is just as important for young families with minor children as they are for senior citizens. As average Americans, we work 80,000 hours in a lifetime, or 45 to 55 years. In spite of all our resources and the assets we earn during our lifetime, the vast majority of Americans do not take the time to create the legal instructions to guide the court or a guardian. National statistics indicate that more than 50% of Americans die without leaving a will. In the absence of a will or other legal arrangement to distribute property at death, the State must step in to administer the estate and decide who gets custody of your children and handle their money. This process is called the law of intestacy. The result can be lengthy delays in the distribution of your estate, court battles between relatives and your children being raised by someone you do not favor. Without a Will, your family will have to pay substantial costs for accountants, attorneys, bonding companies and probate fees. IF YOU HAVE NO WILL (LEGALLY REFERRED TO AS "INTESTATE SECESSION"): If you leave no Will or your Will is declared invalid because it was improperly prepared or is not admissible to probate: * State law determines who gets assets, not you * Additional expenses will be incurred by your heirs and extra work will be required by the heirs of their attorney to qualify an administrator * The Judge determines who gets custody of your children * Possible additional State inheritance taxes and Federal estate taxes * If you have no spouse or relatives, the State may take your property * The procedure to distribute assets becomes more complicated-and the law makes no exceptions for persons in unusual need or for your own wishes. * It may also cause fights and lawsuits within your family When loved ones are grieving and dealing with death, they shouldnt be overwhelmed with Financial concerns. Careful estate planning helps take care of that. Guardians Most individuals appoint their spouse to act as Guardian of the person and property of their minor children. It is suggested that your Will include a clause which provides that in the event your spouse predeceases you, or is unsuitable or ceases to act as Guardian of the person and property of your minor children, you appoint a trusted family member or close friend to act as successor Guardian of the person and property of your minor children. Trustee Select a trusted person, a close relative or friends, who will invest and hold your childrens money. In your Will you can instruct the Trustee to apply amounts of income and principal as they, in their sole discretion, deem proper for the health, maintenance, education, welfare, or support of your children or other minors. Direct that the trustee shall accumulate any income not needed for the above purposes, paying and transferring the portion held in trust to the beneficiary upon his or her attaining the age of majority or whichever age you select. Children born after you sign the Will Many people direct that the provisions of their Will also applies to afterborn children. Accordingly, if you have any additional children subsequent to the execution of this Will, then wherever you have designated only your named children, you intend that all of your children shall share equally in the relevant provisions of your Will. In addition to having a formal Last Will and Testament individuals are encouraged to have a Power of Attorney and also Living Will. Moreover, we also recommend they plan ahead and write messages to their family and anticipated executor detailing their specific desires regarding funeral and burial. Written instructions to your family and executor containing information and guidance will minimize uncertainty, confusion, and possible oversights following your death. Conclusion While the preceding article contains possible items to be discussed with your family, attorney and executor, the article is by no means exhaustive. A number of these items may not be applicable in your situation, and probably there are many others that are applicable. The essential element is to spend some time now considering what you should tell those most closely associated with you to facilitate their handling of your affairs upon your death.