Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey

Re: Heir to financial disaster

If you have been served with a summons and complaint you must answer within the time specified (usually 30 days from date of service). You need to get together with your family and determine why the estate owes back taxes. You should probably join with other family members to consult an attorney who handles real estate litigation. If the estate does not pay its taxes, the property could be sold at tax sale, so the heirs may want to join together to pay the taxes and preserve the property.

Re: Heir to financial disaster

I agree with Robin and add the following. I do not understand why non-owners have been sued, but she is correct that even if you have been erroneously named, you must defend yourself or a judgment can be obtained against you by default (failing to answer the complaint). Is it possible that something else was done, like placing the property in a trust in which you are one of the beneficiaries? If so, you have been properly served and are being named as a trust beneficiary. Someone should find out what has been done and to avoid judgmnents, see the taxes are paid.