Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

My father passed away recently. He was married to his current wife (not my mother) for 30+ years. I'm wondering if I'm entitled to a portion of the house they lived in. It was her house, that he moved into when they married, and its always been in her name only, but he has paid into the house for over 30 years. They live in NJ and he did not have a will. Being his only son I was just curious what the law is. I don't believe they ever had a prenuptial agreement. Thank you for your time.


Asked on 12/16/16, 7:53 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

Condolences on your loss. While your father might have had a claim on the house if his wife had died first, the house was and is hers. To find out if you have any rights, you should consult with an estates lawyer in the county where he resided.

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 12/16/16, 11:40 am


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