Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

When there is no will, the estate of the deceased goes according to law, generally to surviving spouse and children, if no children, to parents, if no parents, to siblings, etc. Step children are not included among the legal heirs. It is actually more complex than that, but this is a brief explanation.

The question is who died first, your mother or her husband.

If you feel that you are entitled to part of the estate, consult a lawyer to help advise you and assist in claiming your share.

None of the assets may be distributed to heirs before the estate is administered, and all taxes and debts paid.

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.