Statement as to COVID-19 Planning

The current situation we face as a Country involving the COVID-19 Pandemic is unprecedented. Never have we had to deal with such a difficult enemy that is invisible to us. These times should cause individuals and families to pause and address their current situation and future. Individuals need to plan to protect themselves and their families. Individuals need to be prepared to deal with emergent matters and consider estate planning well in advance of a future crisis or difficulty currently facing them.  

Estate Planning currently is critical. Individuals need to address and review their current planning. That planning, from a basic standpoint, involves the creation and execution of three (3) very important documents.  

The first is a Durable Power of Attorney. The document allows a person called an Agent and Attorney in Fact to step in and make decisions for you when you are unable to as to your finances.

The second is an Advanced Medical Directive or Living Will. Critically important in these times, it allows an individual called a Proxy to make decisions for you when you are unable as to medical decision making. That can involve medical procedures, medications, ventilators and continuation or cessation of medical treatment.

The third is a Last Will and Testament. The document appoints a representative of your Estate on your passing and directs distribution of your assets. It can create trusts, appoint Guardians for your minor children and direct payments of taxes, debts and liabilities.

A client should also review with Counsel how assets are currently titled for what are called non-probate assets such as life insurance, IRA’s, 401K’s, 403B’s, Annuities and joint accounts. Those designations can have tax effects on your Estate and generally pass outside of your Last Will and Testament, so a well-drawn comprehensive plan is incredibly important.

In following social distancing guidelines, in lieu of an initial physical meeting at our office, we first forward (for review and completion) a questionnaire. Once received back in our office, we complete a telephone intake with the client. In depth discussions take place via secure telephone conference, video conference and through encrypted e-mail.

 Drafted documents to your attention via e-mail or postal delivery. We review them with the client over the phone and revisions changes made.

Signings are presently being scheduled in our Manasquan, NJ office. Masks and gloves are made available to clients and used by all witnesses. Our main conference room meets social distancing suggestions and size.

 The conference room is sanitized daily and prior to all signings. Our goal is to accommodate clients’ needs given the current emergent crisis while offering all measures possible to protect the health and safety of clients and employees.

The State of New Jersey through Governor Murphy has also created emergent powers and authority for notary public procedures where immediate physical contact cannot be accommodated.

We have all learned through this crisis that action now is important.

For all your current and future estate planning needs, please call today 1-732-920-8383.

Elder Law

Our needs change as we age. Life planning suddenly has a new meaning, estate planning becomes increasingly important, and securing Medicare or Medicaid benefits is vital for any care or treatment you might need. At King, Kitrick, Jackson, McWeeney & Wells, LLC, our experienced attorneys understand what our elder law clients’ needs are, and we have the tools to ensure their goals are achieved.

We serve clients throughout the New Jersey region. We routinely travel to clients who are unable to visit our office located in Brick, New Jersey, and our lawyers believe that each client deserves personal service that is tailored to his or her unique needs. We will take the time to learn about your situation and provide honest advice backed by years of experience. To speak with a professional in Brick New Jersey about your elder law questions please call (732) 920-8383.

Speak to us today to learn more about:
• Life-care planning
• Elder housing
• Estate administration and probate
• Wills, trusts and powers of attorney
• Medicare and Medicaid planning, including filling out an initial application or appeals
• Special needs planning for disabled family members
• Will contests or probate litigation
• The probate process

For information on wills, download our PDF document: Why you should have a will.

Learn how our personalized approach can make a difference as we help set you up for success in your retirement years. Contact us by calling (732) 920-8383. We can also be reached by email.