Pinfield Family Dispute Demonstrates Important of Incapacity Planning
Too many people believe that responsible estate planning only involves making arrangements for the distribution of assets upon their death. While this is extremely important, you could wind up in the middle of a bitter family conflict while you are still alive if you don’t address what should happen in the event of your incapacity. […]
Increased Federal Estate Tax Exemption Remains Following Passage of Bill
There are many reasons why someone might want to revise their estate plan. An important reason to review your will and trust periodically is that relevant laws can change, significantly affecting an existing asset distribution strategy. Many individuals and families faced a potential problem at the end of this year had Congress not acted, but […]
Changes to NJ “Mansion Tax” Could Have Significant Effect on Real Estate Market
Like other states, New Jersey continues to seek ways to increase revenue. One way to do this is to attach levies to high-value transactions, such as home and vehicle sales, that occur within the state. There might be something to the notion that it is easier to apply a tax to a larger deal than […]
What Businesses Should Know About New Jersey’s Data Privacy Law
In today’s digital age, protecting personal data is more important than ever. The New Jersey Data Privacy Act (NJDPA) is a landmark law designed to safeguard the privacy rights of New Jersey residents. If your business operates in New Jersey or targets New Jersey consumers, it’s essential to understand your obligations under this law. The […]
New Jersey Law Forbids Discrimination in Real Estate Appraisals
In September 2024, New Jersey took a significant step toward promoting fairness in the real estate market, enacting a law that explicitly prohibits appraisers from engaging in discrimination when determining the value of a property. This landmark legislation aims to address longstanding concerns about bias in property appraisals, requiring that all buyers and sellers are […]
Do New Jersey Courts Enforce No-Contest Clauses in Wills and Trusts?
When drafting a will or trust, many individuals include no-contest clauses to discourage beneficiaries from contesting the terms of the legal instrument. Also known as in terrorem clauses, they are designed to protect the testator’s or grantor’s wishes by penalizing beneficiaries who challenge the document. Under New Jersey law, these clauses are generally but not absolutely enforceable. […]
New Jersey Public Water Suppliers Cannot Be Sued for Breach of Contract in Contamination Case
Water service in New Jersey municipalities is provided by a combination of public and private operations. While customers of private companies have the ability to seek damages in a breach-of-contract lawsuit when their water is contaminated, there have been conflicting rulings as to whether a municipal or county supplier can be sued in the same […]
Estate Planning Options for People Without Children
For many people, estate planning involves passing wealth to children and grandchildren, but even someone without direct descendants should take the time to decide where the assets they’ve accumulated should go. Without a valid will in place, your estate will be subject to intestacy laws, leaving decisions about your legacy in the hands of the […]
New Law Makes Major Changes to Home Buying Process in New Jersey
In many parts of New Jersey, high residential real estate prices and low inventory have made it very difficult for families looking to purchase a new home. Many buyers have felt compelled to make decisions quickly and without a full understanding of the transaction process. Now, a new law is designed to increase transparency so […]
Proposed Law Would Excuse Home Businesses from Zoning Requirements
For many years, technological advances and evolving attitudes toward work-life balance increased the prevalence of home-based businesses in New Jersey and throughout the country. Then in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced tens of millions of people to work from home. Even when the pandemic subsided, many people realized they were capable of operating their business […]