Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

My father passed away in December of 2015 and My brother 3 weeks later in January of 2016. My sister in law who left my brother in June of 2014 and moved back in with her first husband is trying to claim my brother half of my fathers estate. Neither my brother or sister in law helped in my fathers care as they lived in Hawaii. I was my fathers caregiver for the 7 years prior to his death. My father, my brother and myself had a verbal agreement that I would receive the entire estate which includes a house valued at about $330,000 and around $45,000 in liquid assets. My sister in laws lawyer provided a list of 20 interrogatories that they demand we respond to. Most of the questions have to do with providing a list of my fathers doctors and a complete medical history for the last 10 years. They also want a detailed record of my work history for the last 28 years. Are these reasonable requests? Do HIPPA regulations apply here? Am I under any obligation to provide these answers?


Asked on 3/15/18, 7:57 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

Condolences on your double loss. If you don't already have am estates lawyer assisting you in the administration of these estates, you should promptly engage the services of one. Answers of lawyers on a message board such as this one are not sufficient to get you through answers to interrogatories or any contested action with your sister-in-law.

THIS RESPONSE IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE, SINCE I DO NOT HAVE ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED, AND I DO NOT HAVE A REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT WITH YOU.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

* Another reason for contacting a lawyer is that it is often impossible to give a good answer in the Internet Q&A format without having more information. The unique circumstances of your situation and things that you may not have thought to mention in your question may completely change the answer. If you want to be sure that you have a complete answer to your question and an understanding of what that answer means, establish a connection with a lawyer who practices in the area of your concern.

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Answered on 3/15/18, 8:46 am


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