Trust & Estate Lawyer in Bergen County, NJ
In Bergen County, NJ, estate planning under the NJ Uniform Trust Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq.) protects your assets and family. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has over 120 years of combined legal experience. An Advance Directive Lawyer Bergen County NJ from our firm can help you prepare for the future.
Understanding Trust & Estate Law in Bergen County
New Jersey’s estate planning laws are governed by the NJ Uniform Trust Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq.) and the NJ Probate Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:1-1 et seq.). These statutes outline how wills are probated, trusts are administered, and estates are distributed. New Jersey repealed its state estate tax in 2018, but an inheritance tax still applies to certain beneficiaries at rates of 11-16%. An Advance Directive Lawyer Bergen County NJ can explain how these laws affect your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Resources for Trust & Estate Law
- N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq. (NJ Uniform Trust Code) — Official New Jersey Legislature
- Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage — Official NJ Courts Website
Insider Procedural Edge: Bergen County Surrogate Court
Wills are probated through the Bergen County Surrogate Court. The executor or administrator is appointed by the court. An inheritance tax waiver must be obtained from the NJ Division of Taxation. Trust administration follows the Uniform Trust Code.
- Step 1: Contact an Advance Directive Lawyer Bergen County NJ to review your estate planning goals.
- Step 2: Gather your financial documents, including property deeds, bank accounts, and insurance policies.
- Step 3: Draft your will, trust, and advance directive documents with your attorney.
- Step 4: Execute the documents according to New Jersey law, including proper notarization and witness signatures.
- Step 5: Store your documents securely and inform your executor or trustee of their location.
- Step 6: Review your estate plan every 3-5 years or after major life changes.
In Bergen County, NJ, trust and estate matters carry specific legal consequences for non-compliance.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Will Contest | Civil Matter | None | Legal fees | None | Estate frozen during litigation |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil Matter | None | Surcharge and removal | None | Loss of fiduciary position |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Trust & Estate Needs?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has documented over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating his deep understanding of complex legal matters. An Advance Directive Lawyer Bergen County NJ from our firm provides case-specific guidance for your estate planning needs.
Our Track Record in Trust & Estate Matters
No verifiable case result is available for this jurisdiction/topic.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Trust & Estate Lawyer Near Bergen County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Bergen County courts. We are accessible via I-80, NJ Turnpike, Route 17, Route 4, Route 46, GW Bridge, and GSP.
Searching for a “Trust & Estate lawyer near Bergen County” or “Advance Directive Lawyer Bergen County NJ”? We serve Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (201) 527-2700
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trust & Estate Law in Bergen County
Do I need an Advance Directive in New Jersey?
Yes. An advance directive lets you name a healthcare proxy and outline your medical wishes. It is a key part of any estate plan.
How long does probate take in Bergen County?
It depends. Simple estates may close in 9-12 months. Will contests can take 6-18 months. An Advance Directive Lawyer Bergen County NJ can provide a timeline estimate.
Does New Jersey have an estate tax?
No. New Jersey repealed its state estate tax effective 2018. However, an inheritance tax still applies to certain beneficiaries at rates up to 16%.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will goes through probate court. A trust avoids probate and provides more privacy. Both are useful tools in an estate plan.
Can I update my estate plan after it is created?
Yes. You should review your estate plan every 3-5 years or after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.