openPR Logo
Press release

New Jersey Estate Planning Lawyer Christine Matus Offers Guidance on When to Update an Estate Plan

12-13-2024 07:32 PM CET | Politics, Law & Society

Press release from: ABNewswire

New Jersey Estate Planning Lawyer Christine Matus Offers

Estate planning is an essential step for individuals and families in New Jersey to safeguard their assets and ensure their wishes are respected in the event of illness, accident, or death. Christine Matus (https://matuslaw.com/when-should-i-update-my-estate-plan-in-new-jersey/), a New Jersey estate planning lawyer at The Matus Law Group, provides critical insights into when and why estate plans should be updated to reflect changes in life circumstances, assets, or laws.

Updating an estate plan is often overlooked once documents such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney are initially prepared. New Jersey estate planning lawyer Christine Matus emphasizes that revisiting these documents regularly is vital. "Your estate plan should not be a static set of documents that you keep in a vault and never look at. As you experience life changes, these documents will need to be reviewed as well so that they accurately reflect your current circumstances," she explains.

For residents of New Jersey, certain major life events are key indicators that it's time to review and update an estate plan. Christine Matus recommends consulting with a New Jersey estate planning lawyer to assess how these changes may affect legal documents. One such event is marriage, whether it's a first marriage or one later in life. Contrary to common belief, a spouse does not automatically inherit an estate in New Jersey, where state law grants spouses only one-third of an estate without a will. Using a will, individuals can override these default distributions, specifying the exact assets they wish to leave to their spouse.

Another critical time to update an estate plan is after having children. Parents can designate a guardian for their children in their will, ensuring that the court doesn't appoint someone without their input. This is particularly important for blended families, where additional planning may be needed to include stepchildren or provide equitable distributions for all children. Changes in marital status, such as divorce or the death of a spouse, also necessitate updates to estate planning documents. Former spouses may need to be removed as beneficiaries, executors, or agents under powers of attorney, and new arrangements should be made to reflect current wishes.

Relocation is another common reason to revisit an estate plan. State laws vary regarding how estates are handled, and documents drafted under New Jersey law may not align with the regulations of a new state. Christine Matus advises reviewing all state-specific elements of an estate plan after moving to ensure compliance with local laws and to account for potential differences in tax implications.

While life events are significant triggers, estate plans should also be reviewed periodically. As a general rule, Christine Matus recommends revisiting documents every three to five years. Legislative changes, particularly in tax laws, can also impact the effectiveness of wills and trusts, making regular consultations with a New Jersey estate planning lawyer essential. Asset changes are another reason for updates. Acquiring new property, investments, or other valuable assets should prompt a review to ensure they are included in trusts or other estate planning mechanisms. Similarly, selling significant assets may require revisions to distribute remaining assets appropriately.

Trusts are a common component of many estate plans, and like wills, they need regular updates to remain effective. Christine Matus highlights that trusts should be reviewed after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of children, or the death of a family member. Changes in asset portfolios or tax laws also necessitate updates to trusts to ensure they align with current circumstances and goals. "Regular reviews with a qualified New Jersey estate planning attorney can help keep your trust accurate, legally compliant, and aligned with your wishes, providing peace of mind that your estate will be managed according to your intentions," says Christine Matus.

An estate plan is not a one-time task. Life changes, financial shifts, and evolving laws require periodic reviews to keep documents current and effective. Christine Matus urges individuals to treat estate planning as an ongoing process rather than a one-and-done endeavor. Families who plan to travel for extended periods should also consider revisiting their estate plans. This is particularly important for those engaging in risky activities or spending extended time away, as an up-to-date estate plan ensures their wishes are clearly documented and enforceable.

Maintaining an up-to-date estate plan is one of the most important steps New Jersey residents can take to protect their families and assets. Whether prompted by major life events or routine reviews, consulting with an experienced New Jersey estate planning lawyer ensures that documents reflect current wishes and comply with all legal requirements. For those seeking assistance with estate planning, Christine Matus and The Matus Law Group provide knowledgeable guidance tailored to individual needs.

About The Matus Law Group:

The Matus Law Group, led by New Jersey estate planning lawyer Christine Matus, is dedicated to helping families plan for the future through personalized estate planning services. With a focus on wills, trusts, and other vital legal tools, the firm is committed to ensuring clients' assets are protected and their wishes are honored.

Embeds:

Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEqAO9ZdrEA

GMB: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=3241702663730814860

Email and website

Email: admin@matuslaw.com

Website: https://matuslaw.com/monmouth-county-nj/

Media Contact
Company Name: The Matus Law Group
Contact Person: Christine Matus
Email:Send Email [https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=new-jersey-estate-planning-lawyer-christine-matus-offers-guidance-on-when-to-update-an-estate-plan]
Phone: (732) 785-4453
Address:125 Half Mile Rd #201A
City: Red Bank
State: New Jersey 07701
Country: United States
Website: https://matuslaw.com/monmouth-county-nj/



This release was published on openPR.

Permanent link to this press release:

Copy
Please set a link in the press area of your homepage to this press release on openPR. openPR disclaims liability for any content contained in this release.

You can edit or delete your press release New Jersey Estate Planning Lawyer Christine Matus Offers Guidance on When to Update an Estate Plan here

News-ID: 3787550 • Views:

More Releases from ABNewswire

Mind Above Matter Expands Access to Mental Health Support with Virtual Group Therapy for Keller, TX
Mind Above Matter Expands Access to Mental Health Support with Virtual Group The …
Mind Above Matter in Keller, TX, is enhancing access to mental health care by offering virtual group therapy sessions. This expansion allows individuals to receive professional support from the comfort of their homes, making mental health services more accessible and convenient for the community. Keller, TX - Dec 19, 2025 - Mind Above Matter, a leading provider of outpatient group treatment services in Keller, TX, is expanding its mental health support
Mahogany Kitchens Discusses the Growing Demand for Custom Cabinetry in Palm Beach County
Mahogany Kitchens Discusses the Growing Demand for Custom Cabinetry in Palm Beac …
Mahogany Kitchens highlights the growing preference for tailored cabinetry in Palm Beach County, covering local trends in kitchen remodeling and handcrafted woodwork solutions. Palm Beach County has seen a notable shift in how homeowners approach interior design, with a growing preference for custom cabinetry that reflects personal style and functional needs. Mahogany Kitchens, a Boynton Beach-based woodwork company, has observed this trend firsthand while serving clients throughout South Florida. The increased
Prince Health Introduces PlaqueX IV Therapy in The Woodlands for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Wellness
12-20-2025 | Sports
ABNewswire
Prince Health Introduces PlaqueX IV Therapy in The Woodlands for Cardiovascular …
Prince Health in The Woodlands, TX, announces the launch of PlaqueX IV therapy, a non-surgical functional medicine treatment designed to support heart health and reduce arterial plaque. Led by Dr. Ashley Prince, DC, the practice offers this advanced phosphatidylcholine infusion to help patients improve circulation and lipid metabolism. This proactive cardiovascular solution is now available to residents in the Greater Houston area. THE WOODLANDS, Texas - December 19, 2025 - Prince
From London Comforts to Vietnamese Chaos: Author Jane Roberts Unveils the Gritty Reality of Chasing a Global Dream
From London Comforts to Vietnamese Chaos: Author Jane Roberts Unveils the Gritty …
When a high-stakes job offer in Hanoi disrupts a settled life in the UK, one woman abandons her safety net to build a market-leading empire amidst humidity, hardship, and the unknown-proving that true transformation only happens when you stop playing it safe. In her powerful debut, Follow Your Dreams: Dare to Venture into the Unknown, Jane Roberts brings us a compelling narrative about the transformative power of chasing your dreams, even

All 5 Releases


More Releases for Matus

New Jersey Probate Lawyer Christine Matus Explains How to Avoid Probate
Christine Matus (https://matuslaw.com/how-to-avoid-probate-in-new-jersey/), a seasoned New Jersey probate lawyer, offers valuable insights into navigating estate planning without the complications of probate. In her latest publication, "How to Avoid Probate in New Jersey," Matus outlines the legal mechanisms that help individuals sidestep the formal court process and ease the burden on surviving family members. The Matus Law Group, known for its legal services throughout New Jersey, provides guidance on avoiding lengthy
New Jersey Medicaid Trust Attorney Christine Matus Explains Qualified Income Tru …
Navigating the strict financial requirements of Medicaid in New Jersey can be a significant barrier for many families seeking long-term care. New Jersey Medicaid trust attorney Christine Matus (https://matuslaw.com/understanding-qualified-income-trusts-in-new-jersey/) provides essential insights into how Qualified Income Trusts (QITs) serve as a crucial financial tool for individuals who exceed Medicaid income limits. Without compromising access to care or exhausting savings, these trusts offer a way to meet eligibility criteria while maintaining
New Jersey Medicaid Trust Lawyer Christine Matus of The Matus Law Group Helps Fa …
Navigating Medicaid eligibility in New Jersey can be a complex process for individuals and families seeking healthcare assistance. A New Jersey Medicaid trust lawyer plays a crucial role in helping clients understand income and asset limits while preserving financial security. Christine Matus (https://matuslaw.com/new-jersey-medicaid-eligibility/) of The Matus Law Group provides guidance on Medicaid rules and planning strategies, ensuring that clients can access necessary medical care without jeopardizing their assets. Medicaid, also known
New Jersey Guardianship Attorney Christine Matus Explains Legal Considerations f …
New Jersey guardianship attorney [https://matuslaw.com/guardianship-attorney/] Christine Matus recently discussed the legal aspects of guardianship, providing insight into the responsibilities and challenges involved in the process. Guardianship is an essential legal arrangement for individuals who cannot make decisions for themselves due to age, disability, or other circumstances. With years of experience in this field, Christine Matus of The Matus Law Group has assisted families in navigating guardianship laws in New Jersey. A
New Jersey Estate Planning Attorney Christine Matus Discusses Estate Planning St …
New Jersey estate planning attorney [https://matuslaw.com/ocean-county-nj/] Christine Matus has shared valuable insights on estate planning strategies, emphasizing the importance of preparing for the future. As a legal professional with The Matus Law Group, Christine Matus highlights key aspects of estate planning that individuals and families should consider to protect their assets and loved ones. The discussion includes strategies for creating wills, trusts, and other essential estate planning documents. The New Jersey
New Jersey Wills Attorney Christine Matus Helps Families Secure Their Legacy
Planning for the future is a critical step in protecting assets and ensuring that loved ones are cared for according to an individual's wishes. Without a legally valid will, the distribution of assets is left to the courts, which may not align with personal preferences. New Jersey wills attorney Christine Matus (https://matuslaw.com/wills-attorney/) understands the importance of estate planning and works to help individuals and families create legally sound wills that