Is There a Time Limit to Probate a Will in NJ? Everything You Need to Know
When a loved one passes away, navigating the legal process of handling their estate can feel like walking through a maze. One of the most common questions people ask in New Jersey is: "Is there a time limit to probate a will in NJ?" The short answer is yes—but the full story is a bit more nuanced. In this article, we’ll break it all down: what the deadlines are, why they matter, what happens if you miss them, and how a certified probate expert can help you stay on track. Understanding Probate in New Jersey Before we talk about timelines, let's first understand what probate actually is. In simple terms, probate is the legal process of proving that a deceased person's will is valid, and then overseeing the distribution of their assets according to that will. Probate involves: Filing the will with the Surrogate’s Court Appointing an executor Notifying heirs and creditors Paying off debts and taxes Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries If there's no wil...