My Aunt passed away. A copy of "Statement of Intent" was found. It describes how she wanted her assets distributed. She did not hand write i...

Question

My Aunt passed away. A copy of "Statement of Intent" was found. It describes how she wanted her assets distributed. She did not hand write it. It appears a notary public typed it and then notarized it along with her signature. This is a copy. We assume the original is in a safe deposit box somewhere. There are no other signed witnesses. Can this be accepted by NJ probate court as "testate"?

Answer

maybe. have a lawyer look at it and tell you.

if you are near me, come to my office.

Answer

As Robert stated, there is a chance that it will be accepted. NJ revised the laws a few years ago making it much easier for documents that purport to be Wills to be treated like a Will. I have had some success in having such documents probated. As long as all next of kin are in agreement, it is actually a rather smooth process.

Kevin A. Pollock, J.D., LL.M.

www.PollockAtLaw.com

P: (609) 818-1555

Licensed to practice law in Florida, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

Also, visit my blogs at:

http://WillsTrustsEstates.blogspot.com/

http://BaseballLaw.blogspot.com/

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