Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

my sister died 5 years ago and made her friend executer of estate. Since then the executer has passed away. I recently found life insurance policy with no benifactors. I,m her sister her next of kin can I have the opportunity to cash in the policy. There was no will. What do I need to do.


Asked on 7/25/14, 4:52 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

Your sister's estate must still be administered. This is done by applying for letters of administration to the Surrogate's Office for the county where she resided at the time of her death. If the life insurance policy did not name a beneficiary, you or the person appointed as administrator should notify the insurance company to pay the proceeds to the estate.

Because so much time has passed, the administration will be more complicated. You should engage the services of a local estates lawyer.

THIS RESPONSE IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE, SINCE I DO NOT HAVE ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED, AND I DO NOT HAVE A REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT WITH YOU.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

* Another reason for contacting a lawyer is that it is often impossible to give a good answer in the Internet Q&A format without having more information. The unique circumstances of your situation and things that you may not have thought to mention in your question may completely change the answer. If you want to be sure that you have a complete answer to your question and an understanding of what that answer means, establish a connection with a lawyer who practices in the area of your concern.

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Answered on 7/25/14, 5:43 pm
Robert Davies The Davies Law Firm, P.A.

I agree with the attorney who already gave you an answer. if you are in northern New Jersey, call my office and come in. I will assist.

Robert Davies, Esq.

201 820 3460

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Answered on 7/28/14, 8:25 am


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