Q: Three months of silence, so how do I handle a non-responsive probate lawyer?
I am one of two beneficiaries of an estate. We're at five years and counting, and I have been represented by a NJ lawyer on this matter as I live out of state. I was notified of new assets one year ago by executor via my lawyer, who was unable to provide any additional details. Assets entered estate over summer. I asked my lawyer if we could request an updated informal inventory since we have not been provided an inventory of estate in 2+ years. I contacted my lawyer with instructions on how to proceed after being told they were not sure what else to do. I requested informal inventory. If rejected by executor, then request a formal inventory through court. My lawyer has gone silent for past three months. I contacted my lawyer via email, voice message, contact form on website, certified letter (which was undeliverable but same mailing address used for other mail and on website)....approaching 90 days with no response. Can try to find substitute lawyer but likely difficult. Suggestions?
A: Contact the Office of Attorney Ethics at the NJ Supreme Court and ask for assistance with obtaining a response from the attorney.
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