Legal Question in Real Estate Law in New Jersey
living arrangements
In New Jersey, if you are a resident in a relative's home for many years, what are your rights when the relative passes on? Are you able to claim that residence as your permanent home? There is no rent or any compensation involved to relative whatsoever. The particular relative had invited you to live in the home as a companion. The relative had paid for all expenses. You had adopted that home your permanent residence and all your mail, license, etc... reflects that address.
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: living arrangements
You are a guest. If the relative passes on, the title to the property is determine by law, perhaps including the will, without regard to the fact that you live there or have cared for the relative. You don't acquire any interest in the title by having possession or by rendering services to the owner.
See also: http://info.corbettlaw.net/lawguru.htm
Re: living arrangements
I agree with John that mere occupancy creates no rights. Further, since you paid no rent or equivalent, you have no claims against the estate. Unless the Will grants you rights, or the Deed has your name on it, or you are the closest living relative who will inherit upon the relative's death, your occupancy rights will terminate. There are many things that can be done, and I suggest that if the relative is competent, you discuss this with him/her and that the relative seek the advice of a good estate attorney who prepares the proper documents. Contact me directly if I can be of assistance.
Re: living arrangements
I have read what the other attorneys wrote.
If you are in northern NJ, you can call me if you like.
Please call my office if I can assist you. You can then decide how you would like to proceed.
My contact information can be obtained from the links below, just click on the Attorney Profile link. Let my secretary know you found me through LawGuru.
Disclaimer: Your question and any response does NOT create an attorney-client relationship between you and this law firm. You can not rely on the statements made by an attorney given over the internet. The exact facts of your situation, including facts which you have not mentioned in your question, may completely change the result for your situation.