Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

If your family lawyer looked at the will and approved it, surely s/he has access to a notary who won't charge you an arm and a leg.

However, you should know that unless your family lawyer is experienced in wills and other estate issues, you would be far better off having a formal will prepared and the execution of it supervised. There are other important documents that everyone should have as part of the will process. Those documents also have formalities as far as what they contain, how it is said, and the manner of execution, and you want to be sure that they will be effective.

That way, many issues that should be considered, but probably weren't in your self-made will, will be covered, and with the proper execution, the Will and other documents will be upheld as valid and can be probated without having to go through extra steps if the execution didn't include the proper witnesses, acknowledgments, self proving affidavits, etc.

Trying to save money at this stage jeopardizes what will happen to your estate and at that time, it will be too late to correct any errors. Proper planning also may save inheritance and estate taxes and better provide for the people you want to take care of.

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.

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