Trust & Estate Lawyer in Camden County, NJ
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced trust and estate representation in Camden County, NJ, handling wills, trusts, probate, and estate administration under New Jersey statutes. Our firm, founded in 1997, offers a case-specific approach to protect your assets and ensure your wishes are carried out. We serve clients across Camden, Cherry Hill, and surrounding communities.
New Jersey estate planning involves the NJ Uniform Trust Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq.) and Probate Code (3B:1-1 et seq.), with key considerations for inheritance tax and fiduciary duties.
New Jersey Trust and Estate Law
Trust and estate law in New Jersey governs the creation, management, and distribution of a person’s assets during life and after death. The primary statutes include the NJ Uniform Trust Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq.) for trusts and the NJ Probate Code (N.J.S.A. 3B:1-1 et seq.) for wills and estate administration. While New Jersey repealed its state estate tax in 2018, an inheritance tax still applies to certain beneficiaries at rates from 11% to 16%.
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | New Jersey Legislature
Official New Jersey Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 3B:31-1 et seq. (NJ Uniform Trust Code) — Official New Jersey statutes.
- Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage — Court website for probate and estate matters.
Estate Planning Process in Camden County
Wills are probated through the Camden County Surrogate’s Court. The executor or administrator is formally appointed there. A key step is obtaining any required inheritance tax waiver from the NJ Division of Taxation before assets can be fully distributed.
- Initial Consultation: Review your assets, family structure, and goals to determine the best estate planning tools.
- Document Drafting: Prepare wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives case-specific to New Jersey law.
- Execution and Notarization: Ensure all documents are properly signed and witnessed according to legal requirements.
- Funding the Trust: Transfer titled assets into the trust to ensure it functions as intended.
- Fiduciary Guidance: Advise executors and trustees on their duties, tax filings, and the administration process.
- Plan Review: Schedule periodic reviews, especially after major life changes, to keep your plan current.
Consequences of Poor Estate Planning
In Camden County, failing to plan or improperly administering an estate can lead to family disputes, frozen assets, and unnecessary taxes.
| Issue | Classification | Potential Impact | Financial Cost | Timeline Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intestacy (No Will) | Statutory Distribution | Assets distributed by state law, not your wishes | Higher court costs | Extended administration |
| Will Contest | Estate Litigation | Estate frozen during litigation | Significant legal fees | 6-18 months delay |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Surcharge / Removal | Executor/Trustee held personally liable | Repayment of losses + penalties | Varies |
| Inheritance Tax Non-Filing | Tax Penalty | Interest and penalties on unpaid tax | 10% penalty + interest | Collection actions |
Results may vary. The outcomes described are for informational purposes and depend on the specific facts of each case.
Our Firm’s Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex trust and estate matters. We focus on clear, practical legal guidance for families and individuals in New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a will and a trust in New Jersey?
A will directs asset distribution after death and requires probate court. A trust holds assets during your lifetime and can bypass probate, offering privacy and potentially faster distribution to beneficiaries.
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 certain beneficiaries based on their relationship to the deceased.
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 timeline to 18 months or more.
What happens if someone dies without a will in New Jersey?
They die intestate. New Jersey’s intestacy laws (N.J.S.A. 3B:1-1 et seq.) determine asset distribution, typically to a surviving spouse and children. The court appoints an administrator, and the process can be more costly and time-consuming than probate with a will.
Who needs to file an inheritance tax return in NJ?
It depends on the beneficiary’s relationship to the decedent. Spouses, parents, grandparents, and children are exempt. Siblings, sons/daughters-in-law, and others may be taxed at rates from 11% to 16%. The return is due 8 months after the date of death.
Trust & Estate Lawyer Near Camden County
Our New Jersey location represents clients at Camden County courts. We serve the communities of Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield, Collingswood, Pennsauken, Winslow, Haddon Township, Berlin, and Lindenwold.
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.
Related Legal Services
- New Jersey Estate Planning Lawyer — State hub page.
- Burlington County Trust & Estate Lawyer — Serving a neighboring county.
- Camden County Business Lawyer — Related practice area for business succession planning.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
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 updated guidance.