My parent needs nursing home care. Will Medicaid take their house? +
Not necessarily — but it depends on planning. Medicaid has a 5-year "look-back" on asset transfers. With proper advance planning (Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts, spousal protections, certain exempt transfers), it's often possible to protect significant assets, including the family home, while still qualifying for nursing-home benefits. The earlier we start, the more options you have — and even in a crisis, there are still strategies worth exploring.
What's the difference between a will and a trust? +
A will distributes assets after you die, but goes through probate — which is public, costs money, and takes time. A revocable living trust holds assets during your life and transfers them to your heirs without probate — privately and often less expensively. Many people benefit from both: a trust for the bulk of assets, and a "pour-over" will to catch anything not in the trust.
How often should I update my estate plan? +
We recommend a review every 3–5 years even if nothing changes — laws and finances shift. Update immediately after marriage or divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, the death of a beneficiary or executor, a significant financial change, a move to another state, or a major change in family relationships. Existing clients can update for a reduced fee.
How long does probate take in New Jersey? +
For straightforward estates with a valid will and cooperative heirs, NJ probate typically takes 6–12 months from start to final distribution. Complex estates, contested wills, or out-of-state property can extend that to 18–24 months or longer. We keep things moving — handling court filings, creditor notifications, valuations, and tax issues so executors don't have to navigate it alone.
What happens if I die without a will (intestate)? +
New Jersey's intestacy laws decide who inherits — spouse and children first, then parents, siblings, and more distant relatives. Friends, unmarried partners, and charities get nothing. The court appoints an administrator chosen by statute, not by you. The process is slower, more expensive, and entirely public. Even a simple will gives you control over all of this.
Do I really need a will if my estate is "simple"? +
Yes — and "simple" usually isn't as simple as people think, especially with a blended family, an unmarried partner, or specific items you want to go to specific people. A basic will is one of the most affordable, highest-impact documents you'll ever create — often in place in 2–3 weeks for a flat fee.
Is everything I tell Maurice confidential? +
Yes. Once you're a client — and even during initial consultations — attorney-client privilege protects what you share, including phone calls, emails, texts through this portal, and in-person conversations. I cannot share what you tell me with anyone, including family members, without your permission.
¿Hablan español? +
Sí. Soy bilingüe — fluido en inglés y español, y mi equipo también puede atenderle en español. Trabajamos con clientes en el idioma con el que se sienten más cómodos, especialmente para asuntos legales importantes donde la claridad lo es todo.
Can a family member come with me to the consultation? +
In most cases, yes — and it often helps, especially in estate planning for an aging parent where multiple family members will be involved. A few exceptions: for divorce matters only the client may attend, and for sensitive matters where privilege could be compromised, we may recommend a private session first. Unsure? Message me before your visit.
I have an existing will from another attorney. Can you review it? +
Yes — and you should consider it. Old wills may not reflect current laws, your current family situation, or your wishes. We'll review what you have, identify gaps, and recommend updates only where they actually matter. If your plan is sound, we'll tell you so — we won't push you to redo work for the sake of billing.
