When someone dies, assets owned solely in their name without a beneficiary designation or survivorship arrangement may need to go through probate. Assets with a surviving joint owner, a valid beneficiary designation, or proper trust ownership may transfer outside probate. Whether an asset goes through probate usually depends on how it is owned, how it […]
Planning for the future can feel overwhelming when a loved one has special needs. Families may be managing medical appointments, education, benefits, daily care, and financial decisions all at once. Long-term planning creates a clearer path forward and reduces the chance that important decisions will need to be made during a crisis. Starting early can […]
Yes, a handwritten will can be valid in New Jersey. But there are strict requirements. And most people do not understand the probate consequences. Here is the reality: legality does not equal simplicity. A document can technically qualify as a will and still create delays, court hearings, and added costs for your family. This article […]
For many individuals and families, estate planning is about more than simply transferring assets. It is about ensuring that what you have built over your lifetime is preserved, protected, and passed on in a way that reflects your values and intentions. As assets transition from one generation to the next, careful planning becomes increasingly important. […]
Authors: Elise Bavazzano and Nicole Atlak The recent conviction of Paul Caneiro in Monmouth County has closed one chapter in a case that has deeply affected communities across New Jersey. A jury found Caneiro guilty of murdering his brother, sister-in-law, and their two children in a 2018 tragedy that also involved arson at two separate […]
Parenthood changes priorities overnight. Suddenly, decisions aren’t just about you, they’re about who steps in, who decides, and how your children are protected if something unexpected happens. Estate planning isn’t about fear or worst-case scenarios. It’s about control and clarity. When the right documents are in place, your wishes are clear, your children are protected, […]
For single parents, estate planning isn’t just about preparation—it’s about making sure your child receives what you intend for them, without court interference, financial missteps, or unintended beneficiaries. When you are parenting alone, there’s often no built-in safety net. If something happens to you, there may be no automatic decision-maker, no clear authority, and no […]
Foundational Questions (What & Why) What is a trust for a child? A trust for a child is a legal arrangement that holds and manages assets on your child’s behalf. Instead of giving money or property directly to a minor or young adult, a trustee manages those assets under rules you set. Why would I […]
A veteran estate litigation attorney explains how California’s “Slayer Statute” may apply in high-profile homicide cases. The tragic deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, and the subsequent arrest of their son Nick have raised numerous legal and financial questions for many people. Among those questions is, can and should Nick, as […]
Planning ahead isn’t just for retirement—it’s for everyone who wants to protect their loved ones and leave a lasting legacy. At Lyons & Associates, P.C., we help clients throughout New Jersey create clear, customized estate plans that provide peace of mind today and protection for tomorrow. Whether you’re just starting out or updating an existing […]
