Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

How long dose probate take?

How long dose it take in the state of NJ after aperson dies and leaves stuff in his will too people to get it, like bonds,stocks, and saveings accounts. Dose the person in charge of the estate have a time fram too follow to divide up the items in the trust that was set up. Can that person take his time, and can he take or sell anything that is not mentioned in the trust if it has anyones name writen on the item with a note or something on it stateing that this is for them. If saveings bonds are in two names like Grandfather and grandson. can he cash them or dose that become a asset and can they be giveing out quickly. if items are in a sealed letter with persons name on it can he open them at all, if he already knows what is in there??

Thank you


Asked on 7/26/02, 11:29 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Walter LeVine Walter D. LeVine, Esq.

Re: How long dose probate take?

If there is a possible tax liability, the return is due 8 months from date of death. Many assets may be frozen until the return is filed, taxes paid and waivers issued by the state. This also depends upon the relationship of the heirs to the decedent - immediate family members make the process easier. There is a possibility that a preliminary distribution could be made earlier, as long as any potential taxes are set aside.

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Answered on 7/29/02, 10:16 am


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