Sacramento, CA asked in Estate Planning for New Jersey

Q: Can I do a simplified probate procedure in NJ myself or do I need a lawyer?

I am 80+ yr old widow with residence in NJ. My husband passed away recently without a will. All his assets passed to me without probate except for an old car. The car was titled in his name only. I need to transfer title of the car to myself so I can sell it. I have heard there is a simplified probate procedure in NJ. Can I do this procedure without a lawyer? If so, how? I am also living out of state currently so anything I do has to be done remotely online or by postal mail.

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1 Lawyer Answer
H. Scott Aalsberg
H. Scott Aalsberg
Answered
  • East Brunswick, NJ
  • Licensed in New Jersey

A: The real question would be how much is the car worth. If it is under 20K you are in luck see NJSA 3B:10-3. which discusses when a spouse or domestic partner is entitled to assets without administration. For your second question, yes a lot of this can be done remotely now due to Covid 19. Saying that I must admit it has gotten a little bit more confusing for most people so if you have the money I would suggest hiring a lawyer to make sure everything is done right.

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