Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

Re: death without a will

Depending on the jurisdiction in question, you may not be responsible for any of his legal matters unless and until you are appointed by the Court as the person responsible. If it goes to court and you object to said appointment, it is unlikely the Court likely will appoint you over your objection. If you find out that a probate action or other related court proceeding is filed, you should appear and make your desires known instead of ignoring it or you could risk relinquishing your rights. Best of luck to you.

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Re: death without a will

As a child, you are an intestate heir, entitled to a share of your father's estate if he died without a will.

His estate will need to have an Administrator appointed by the Surrogate's court. As next-of-kin, you will have some imput as to who the Administrator is, but you do not have to serve as administrator, nor are you personally liable or responsible for your father's debts.