Wills and Trusts Preparation

Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and your legacy. At Sanvenero & Cittadino Attorneys at Law, we help individuals and families across New Jersey navigate the complexities of wills and trusts preparation with clarity, compassion, and personalized attention. Whether you need a basic will or a comprehensive estate plan, our experienced legal team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Why Wills and Trusts Matter in New Jersey

Creating a will or trust ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, rather than being left to the court's decisions. Without proper planning, your estate may go through New Jersey’s intestate succession laws, which may not reflect your intentions.

A carefully crafted estate plan allows you to:

• Provide financial support for loved ones.
• Appoint guardians for minor children.
• Minimize estate taxes and probate delays.
• Avoid family disputes and legal complications.

Whether your estate is large or modest, estate planning is essential for peace of mind and long-term protection.

What Is the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?

Both wills and trusts are important estate planning tools, but they serve different purposes:

• A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes for asset distribution, guardianship of children, and more after your death. It must go through probate, a court-supervised process that validates the will and oversees the distribution of assets.
• A trust is a fiduciary arrangement that allows a third party, or trustee, to hold and manage assets on behalf of beneficiaries. Trusts can be used to avoid probate, provide for minor or disabled beneficiaries, and distribute assets more efficiently.

Depending on your financial situation and family dynamics, you may benefit from having both a will and one or more trusts.

Types of Trusts Available in New Jersey

At Sanvenero & Cittadino Attorneys at Law, we help clients establish a range of trusts tailored to their needs, including:

• Revocable Living Trusts: These trusts allow you to retain control of your assets during your lifetime and transfer them seamlessly upon your death without going through probate.

• Irrevocable Trusts: Once established, irrevocable trusts cannot be modified without court approval. They are commonly used to reduce estate taxes and protect assets from creditors.

• Special Needs Trusts: Designed to provide for a disabled loved one without jeopardizing their eligibility for public benefits.

• Testamentary Trusts: Created through your will and only take effect after your death, it is often used to manage assets for your children or other dependents.

Our Wills and Trusts Preparation Services

When you choose Sanvenero & Cittadino Attorneys at Law, you gain access to a full range of estate planning services, including:

• Drafting valid and enforceable wills.
• Establishing trusts suited to your goals.
• Appointing guardians and executors.
• Planning for incapacity with powers of attorney and living wills.
• Reviewing and updating existing estate plans.
• Coordinating beneficiary designations and asset titling.

We work closely with you to understand your goals, family dynamics, and asset portfolio. Every document we prepare is customized to reflect your unique wishes and values.

When Should I Create or Update My Estate Plan?

It’s never too early to begin estate planning, but certain life events make it especially important:

• Marriage or divorce
• Birth or adoption of a child
• Purchasing property or starting a business
• Major financial changes
• Diagnosis of a serious illness
• Death of a family member

Even if you already have a will or trust in place, we recommend reviewing your plan periodically, or at least after any major life change.

• Do I need a lawyer to write a will in New Jersey?▼

  While it is legally possible to draft your own will, doing so without legal guidance can lead to mistakes that may render your will invalid. A lawyer ensures that your will meets all legal requirements and clearly reflects your intentions.

• Are handwritten wills valid in New Jersey?▼

  New Jersey does allow holographic (handwritten) wills, but they must be entirely in your handwriting and signed. These wills are more likely to be challenged in court, and it’s safer to work with a lawyer to ensure your will is valid.

• Can I avoid probate with a trust?▼

  Yes, a revocable living trust can help avoid probate by transferring ownership of your assets to the trust during your lifetime. Upon your death, the trustee distributes assets directly to your beneficiaries without court involvement.

• What happens if I die without a will in New Jersey?▼

  If you pass away without a valid will, your assets will be distributed according to the state’s intestacy laws. Typically, this means your closest relatives (spouse, children, or parents) will inherit your estate, regardless of your actual wishes.

• How much does it cost to prepare a will or trust?▼

  Costs vary based on the complexity of your estate and the type of documents you need. We offer transparent pricing and will work with you to create an estate plan that fits your budget and goals.

• Why Choose Sanvenero & Cittadino Attorneys at Law for Your Estate Planning Needs?▼

  Estate planning isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about protecting your legacy and securing your family’s future. At Sanvenero & Cittadino Attorneys at Law, we take the time to listen, educate, and design a plan that reflects your personal values and financial priorities. Our experienced team is thoroughly familiar with New Jersey estate laws and stays current on changes that may impact your plan.

  We know these conversations can be emotional and even uncomfortable. That’s why we offer a compassionate and confidential environment where you can plan with confidence and comfort.