Wills, Trusts, And Estate Administration

The preparation of wills, living wills (healthcare directives), trusts, and powers of attorney begin with a thorough assessment of the client’s needs. This evaluation is made by attorneys and partners in the firm Elizabeth Dalena or Corinne DeStefano in consultation with the client. A preliminary legal instrument is drafted and presented to the client for review and – if necessary – modification. Revised documents are then prepared for the client’s approval and signature.

A Dalena, Dalena & DeStefano attorney will conduct the initial assessment and review of drafts at the client’s home or office, in the Madison, Chatham, and Florham Park area.

Administering Estates

For the administering of a deceased’s estate, attorney and partner Corinne DeStefano will review the will with the client and then appear with him or her at the County Surrogate’s office where the will can be probated. In cases where there is none, Dalena, Dalena & DeStefano will arrange a bond for the administrator – the person entitled by law to manage the estate. (A bond, based on the value of the assets, is required by the County Surrogate to ensure that those assets are properly managed.)

The firm will help obtain valuations of assets, including a real-estate appraisal, and prepare the New Jersey Transfer Inheritance Tax Return and the Fiduciary Income Tax Return, if required. Finally, a complete accounting of the estate will be made and refunding bonds and releases for the beneficiaries and heirs prepared.

To schedule a preliminary office consultation at the law firm’s Madison, New Jersey, offices, please contact us today. Your messages will be answered promptly.