Estate Planning Attorneys Serving in Hightstown

While planning for tomorrow may seem easier, we can never predict with 100% accuracy what will happen further into the future. Unfortunately, tragedy often strikes when we least expect it. To ensure your affairs are in order no matter what happens, consider working with an estate planning attorney. Our estate planning lawyers at Van Dyck Law Group serve Hightstown and surrounding areas.

The loss of a loved one can seem insurmountable for a family. When legal stress and financial confusion are piled on top of grief, the situation becomes that much more difficult. Fortunately, you can establish an estate plan. When you work with Van Dyck Law Group, you can rest assured your assets will be protected, and your family will have access to the information and instructions they need to follow through on your wishes.

The attorneys at Van Dyck Law Group are well-versed in New Jersey estate planning laws. Whether you have a clear picture of how you want to build out your estate plan or you are completely new to the subject, we can guide you through the process to develop the plan that makes the most sense for you and your family.

The sooner you get in touch with our law firm, the sooner you can secure your financial future. If you wish to establish a will or advanced directive, or you want to learn about creating a trust, we have resources to share with you.

If you are ready to start planning for your family’s future, get in touch with an attorney from Van Dyck. Call (609) 293-2562 or contact us online to make a no-risk appointment and consultation today.

Estate Planning Lawyers Protecting Legacies for Hightstown Residents

Incorporated in 1853, Hightstown is a borough located in Mercer County. The area was deemed one of the “Best Cities to Live in America” in 2019 and has been acknowledged for its environmental and preservation work.

In addition to its focus on the environment and the health of its residents and visitors, Hightstown is home to many historically attentive residents. The Hightstown-East Windsor Historical Society is located in what was previously a freight station, along with a local museum and library.

While Hightstown focuses on preserving history, the area’s residents are also looking to plan for the future. The estate planning attorneys from Van Dyck Law Group are proud to provide services to Hightstown residents to secure their legacies.

Our services include:

Last Will & Testament Creation
Trust Formation
Estate Tax Planning
Charitable Planning
Special Needs Estate Planning
Asset Protection
Long-term Care Planning
Medical Crisis Planning (Advanced Directives)
Powers of Attorney
Estate Plan Reviews
Probate Assistance

Proudly Serving Our Clients in Mercer County

Van Dyck Law Group provides comprehensive guidance to help individuals get their estates in order. We can assist you in learning more about the most important strategies for estate planning, including helping you put your existing wishes into goal-oriented actions. No matter what your circumstances are in life, you can benefit from working with a Mercer County estate planning attorney who is well-versed in New Jersey law.

Mercer County was first populated well before the founding of New Jersey or the United States. Originally inhabited by the Lenape, early Europeans arrived in the area in 1610. More than a century later, in 1754, a group of trustees decided to move their college to the area — the college that is today known as Princeton University. However, it wasn’t until 1838 that Mercer County was founded.

Today, Mercer County is brimming with flourishing neighborhoods, rich farmlands, and bustling urban centers. Long-time residents and visitors alike can always find something new to do in Mercer County.

The Importance of Establishing an Estate Plan

Estate plans are not just for high-net individuals. Regardless of your financial status or age, it is essential to have an estate plan. Establishing an estate plan will ensure your assets are appropriately distributed after your death and that your personal affairs are prepared for challenges like probate and inheritance taxes.

If you were to pass away without an estate plan, New Jersey law decides what happens to your assets. In most instances, the surviving spouse and/or surviving children are deemed the representative of the estate and have the responsibility of distributing any assets. If there is no spouse or other family members, the court will name a public trustee to manage distribution.

The probate process is long and often expensive. When you have an estate plan, you can help your loved ones save time and money after you’re gone by laying out your wishes officially and strategizing to minimize their own procedural burdens.

Estate planning is especially important when you have dependent children. If you were to die without a surviving spouse to raise your children, the probate court would likely appoint a legal guardian for your children. In some cases, they could go into foster care and become a ward of the state. With an estate plan, you can ensure your children are cared for if you pass away.

There are many other considerations that go into an estate plan, as well, including your advance directive, powers of attorney, and more. Speak to a Hightown estate planning lawyer at Van Dyck Law to start the process and help your loved ones be prepared for the future.

Elements of an Estate Plan

Your wants and needs for your estate plan will affect the types of documents you wish to file.

The most common elements of an estate plan include the following:

Last Will and Testament. Your will contains all of your wishes and intentions regarding the distribution of your possessions after you pass away, as well as other important instructions. You can name a personal representative to manage your estate, describe your preferred funeral & burial arrangements, and offer other guidance for your loved ones in handling your affairs.
Probate Planning. Most wills must pass through probate court to be executed. As there are some exceptions in New Jersey, it is best to work with an estate planning attorney to prepare for the probate process and minimize the duties placed upon your surviving heirs.
Trust Documents. A trust is a legal entity that involves the trustor, trust manager, and beneficiary. They can include specific instructions, including the transferral of property held in trust to a specific beneficiary. Establishing a trust is often favorable during estate planning, as it means avoiding probate court.
Powers of Attorney. In the event you are incapacitated, designating someone with power of attorney specifies who has the ability to make financial and/or medical decisions on your behalf.
Advance Directives. An advance directive is a health care document, also referred to as a “living will.” These documents outline what you want to happen in the event you are medically incapacitated. You can specify which life-saving measures you would like administered, for example, or specify how financial affairs will be managed in your stead.

What to Expect From a New Jersey Estate Planning Lawyer

While we should all plan for our futures, some find the idea of discussing estate planning uncomfortable, perhaps even morbid. Fortunately, the Hightown estate planning lawyers from Van Dyck Law Group know how to handle your questions and concerns with the utmost respect and care.

When you first reach out to us, we will make an appointment to discuss your options. The more prepared you are for the meeting, the better we can serve you.

For example, consider the following questions prior to the meeting:

What types of properties and assets do you own?
Who may you want to manage your estate and carry out your wishes after your passing?
Will you need a trust or a charitable arrangement, or could you benefit from establishing one?
Who are the beneficiaries you wish to inherit your assets?
Do you need to select an appointed guardian for minor children? If so, who might you consider?

While you won’t need formal documentation when we first meet, mentally preparing to answer those questions can make the preliminary process easier. When you seek estate planning guidance from our lawyers in Mercer County, you can rest assured that your wishes will be honored and your legacy upheld.

Speak With an Estate Planning Law Firm Serving Hightstown at Van Dyck Law Group

Van Dyck Law Group provides clients with personalized estate planning guidance so they can move into the future with confidence and peace of mind. We understand that you cannot always predict what will happen, but with a regular review of your affairs, you will have the opportunity to plan for the broadest range of scenarios.

To leave your loved ones with everything they need to preserve your legacy now is the time to take action. We will explain the steps you need to take to prepare for the future. Schedule your no-risk consultation now by calling Van Dyck Law Group at (609) 293-2562, or contact us online.