Trust & Estate Lawyer in Camden County, NJ
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced trust and estate representation in Camden County, NJ. Wills, trusts, and probate are governed by the NJ Uniform Trust Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq.) and NJ Probate Code. Our firm, founded in 1997, offers 24/7 consultations to help you handle estate planning, administration, and potential litigation. We serve clients in Camden, Cherry Hill, and surrounding communities.
New Jersey Trust and Estate Law
New Jersey estate planning involves creating legal documents like wills and trusts to manage and distribute your assets according to your wishes. The state repealed its estate tax in 2018 but maintains an inheritance tax that applies to certain beneficiaries. Proper planning can help avoid probate delays and minimize tax burdens for your heirs.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statutes, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A.) Title 3B, which covers wills, estates, and trusts. For court procedures and forms, visit the Camden Vicinage website.
Estate Process in Camden County
In Camden County, wills are probated through the Surrogate’s Court. The executor named in the will must file the original will and a petition to be officially appointed. If there is no will, an administrator is appointed by the court following New Jersey’s intestacy laws.
- Initial Consultation and Document Review: Gather the will, trust documents, death certificate, and asset lists.
- File with the Surrogate’s Court: Submit the petition for probate or administration to the Camden County Surrogate’s Court.
- Manage Estate Assets: Secure assets, notify beneficiaries and creditors, and publish a notice to creditors.
- Address Taxes and Debts: Pay valid debts, file final tax returns, and handle New Jersey inheritance tax requirements.
- Distribute Assets and Close Estate: Prepare a final accounting, distribute assets to heirs, and file closing documents with the court.
Potential Outcomes and Considerations
In Camden County, estate administration carries specific statutory timelines and fiduciary responsibilities for executors and trustees.
| Matter | Legal Framework | Timeline | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Probate (With Will) | NJ Probate Code | 9-12 months typical | Executor commissions: 5% first $200K |
| Intestate Administration | NJ Intestacy Laws | Often longer than probate | Court-appointed administrator fees |
| Will Contest | N.J.S.A. 3B:3-14 | 6-18 months litigation | Estate assets frozen during case |
| Inheritance Tax | NJ Transfer Inheritance Tax | Tax due 8 months after death | Rates: 0-16% based on beneficiary |
Results may vary. Each estate’s circumstances are unique.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex trust and estate matters. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of New Jersey’s probate and tax laws.
Our Approach to Estate Law
We focus on creating clear, legally sound estate plans case-specific to each client’s family dynamics and financial goals. For executors and administrators, we provide diligent guidance through the probate process to fulfill fiduciary duties and resolve matters efficiently.
Results may vary based on the specific facts of each case.
Serving Camden County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Camden County courts. We represent individuals and families throughout the area, including Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield, and Collingswood.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a will and a trust in New Jersey?
A will directs asset distribution after death and names guardians for minor children, requiring probate court approval. A trust holds assets during your lifetime and transfers them to beneficiaries without probate, offering privacy and potentially avoiding certain taxes.
Does New Jersey have an estate tax?
No. New Jersey repealed its state estate tax effective January 1, 2018. However, New Jersey still has an inheritance tax that applies to transfers to certain beneficiaries, like nieces, nephews, and friends, with rates from 11% to 16%.
How long does probate take in Camden County?
Probate typically takes 9 to 12 months in Camden County. Simple estates with no disputes can be faster through the Surrogate’s Court. Complex estates or will contests can extend the process to 18 months or longer.
What happens if someone dies without a will in New Jersey?
They die intestate. New Jersey’s intestacy laws (N.J.S.A. 3B:5-1 et seq.) determine how assets are distributed, typically to a surviving spouse and children. The court appoints an administrator, and the process is often more time-consuming and costly than probate with a will.
What are the executor’s fees in New Jersey?
New Jersey statute sets executor commissions. The fee is 5% on the first $200,000 of estate value, 3.5% on the next $800,000, and 2% on amounts over $1 million. An executor can also petition the court for additional compensation for extraordinary services.
Related Legal Services
For other legal needs in Camden County, our firm also handles business law, civil litigation, and contract disputes. For more information on New Jersey estate planning, visit our state hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Burlington County and Atlantic County.
Learn more about Mr. Sris or our New Jersey location.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.