The subject of gay marriage was in the news recently when the state of North Carolina passed a constitutional amendment banning such unions. Of course same-sex marriages are not legal in New Jersey either at the present time.
While there are certain implications that cannot be overcome legally, the good news is that if you are in a same-sex union you can take legal action to seize control of things when you are planning for the eventualities of aging and your eventual death.
It is however important to take the matter seriously and avoid procrastination because your partner holds no legal status within intestacy rules of succession. While it is easy to put estate planning on the back burner assuming you’ll have plenty of time to take care of it later on this is a somewhat arrogant point of view because quite frankly you never know when your time will come.
In addition to arranging for the transfer of your financial assets as you see fit you would do well to consider the contingencies that individuals generally face when they reach an advanced age. These would include the possibility of becoming unable to make your own decisions due to incapacity, and of course it is essential to empower your partner to make these decisions in your behalf if this is your preference.
With some careful and intelligent advance planning you should be able to go forward comfortable with the knowledge that your partner will be well cared for and that your own wishes will be carried out come what may. If you’re ready to get started, right now would be a good time to pick up the phone to arrange for a consultation with an experienced, savvy Central New Jersey estate planning lawyer.
Alan Augulis, Estate Planning Attorney
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