Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

Wills often name both probate and non-probate assets. However, the manner in which some assets will pass and to whom is generally controlled by a beneficiary designation that would likely have been completed by your father prior to his death and filed with the individual companies. You would need to contact the company to determine their procedures for obtaining the assets. You should also seriously consider retaining an attorney who does estate administration to complete the many things that need to be done to complete the estate. There are many matters that need to be completed included proper filings with the State of NJ and possibly the IRS.

Keep in mind that this answer is given based on the scanty information you have provided. My answer may change based on other information. Further, you cannot rely on this answer since you have not retained me as your attorney. To be sure that you have accurate information and direction, you should consult with an attorney. Good luck. Rob Gleaner

Give me a call if you want some legal advice on all these issues.

Bob Gleaner is mostly accurate, although non-probate assets (ones that pass to heirs by operation of law, such as bank accounts registered as joint tenants with right of survivorship) and those having a beneficiary designation (like insurance policies or retirement plans) rarely are mentioned in a Will, as the Will only operates on probate assets. He is correct that anyone interested might contact the assetr issuer (bank, insurance company, broker, etc.) to get the information.