Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

Hello , I received a copy of my father's will on Jan. 24 ,2017 . I am inheriting my dad's house . On Jan. 25 ,2017 , I received a letter saying that the deed was sent in to the county clerk to be put in my name ; and with it came the property tax bill that I was to pay by feb.10,2017 . Also , I was to switch the utilities ,and homeowners ins. to my name ASAP ! As of march 7,2017 , I have not yet received my deed or proof that the property is unencumbered ; At what point does the prop.tax ,etc. become my responsibility . Can't I still refuse the property if it is underwater ?


Asked on 3/07/17, 7:30 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

You did not have to accept any inheritance. When were you notified of your father's death and that you were a beneficiary? You had a certain amount of time after that to "disclaim" your inheritance. If the Personal Representative of the Estate did not properly notify you, you may have options. Unless you are living in the house, you may still be able to avoid the transfer. But you must consult with an estates lawyer in the County where the property is located and where your father's estate is being administered ASAP.

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 3/17/17, 2:16 pm


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