tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-386957512024-03-06T11:32:55.136-05:00Elder Law NJ Kenneth Vercammen Law Office. 732-572-0500. Edison, NJ. Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comBlogger931125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-26665216401224417822024-03-06T11:32:00.001-05:002024-03-06T11:32:07.267-05:00Edison Senior Center Wills & Estates Update Seminar<p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> Edison Senior Center</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Wills & Estates Update Seminar</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">April 4, 2024 at 12 noon</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> Thursday</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> Edison Senior Center </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">2963 Woodbridge Ave, </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Edison, NJ 08837</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Join the Edison Seniors to attend.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> Wills & Estate Administration-Protect Your Family and Make Planning Easy </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Speaker: Kenneth Vercammen, Esq. Edison, NJ (Author-Wills and Estate Administration by the ABA)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> Main Topics:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0in; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Dangers If You Have No Will or documents invalid</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0in; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Getting your Estate Planning Documents done when you can’t go into a law office</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0in; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">What goes into a Will</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0in; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Power of Attorneys recommendations</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0in; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-size-adjust: none; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Living Will & Advance Directive for Medical Care</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0in 13.5pt; orphans: auto; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> COMPLIMENTARY
MATERIAL: Brochure on Wills, “Answers to Questions about Probate” and
Administration of an Estate, Power of Attorney, Living Wills, Real
Estate Sales for Seniors, and Trust. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Info contact <b>Josie Brennan, LSW</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Senior Center Supervisor</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">Township of Edison</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;">2963 Woodbridge Ave, Edison NJ 08837</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> 732-248-7346</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><a href="mailto:jbrennan@edisonnj.gov" style="color: #954f72; text-decoration: underline;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">jbrennan@edisonnj.gov</span></a><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span face="Geneva, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"></span></b></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-47770287834813923532024-01-21T20:55:00.003-05:002024-01-21T20:55:36.167-05:00In Medicaid case plaintiff loses her for failure to timely respond to verification request<p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">P.C., </span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Petitioner-Appellant,</span></p><div class="page" title="Page 1"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">v.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">MORRIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY SERVICES,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Respondent-Respondent. _________________________</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Submitted October 3, 2023 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Decided October 26, 2023</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Before Judges Sumners and Perez Friscia.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">On appeal from the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">We use initials to preserve the confidentiality of these proceedings. 3(c)(9).</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">R. 1:38-</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY APPELLATE DIVISION<br />DOCKET NO. A-2630-21</span></p></div></div><img alt="page1image1098864608" height="0.720313" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e9f115dd-8b41-4ce5-b644-cdd4b435c51f" width="144.020000" /></div><div class="page" title="Page 2"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">PER CURIAM </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700;">NOT FOR PUBLICATION WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE APPELLATE DIVISION</span></p><div class="page" title="Page 1"><div class="section" style="background-color: white;"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 9pt;">This opinion shall not "constitute precedent or be binding upon any court." Although it is posted on the internet, this opinion is binding only on the parties in the case and its use in other cases is limited. R. 1:36-3.</span></p></div></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p></p></div></div></div><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">P.C. appeals from the March 18, 2022 final agency decision of the</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Assistant Commissioner of the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (Division), which affirmed the Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance's (County) denial of P.C.'s Medicaid benefits. After a review of the record and applicable law, we affirm.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">I.<br />On January 26, 2021, P.C.'s counsel filed an application for Medicaid</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">benefits with the County under the New Jersey FamilyCare Aged, Blind, Disabled Program. On February 9, 2021, in furtherance of P.C.'s application, the County by letter requested that she provide several eligibility verification documents, which she timely provided.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">On February 25, 2021, the County sent P.C. a second verification request seeking additional documentation relating to: (1) a 2021 health insurance statement, (2) the 2020 sale of a house, and (3) verification for various bank accounts, including a Fidelity Investments account. Specifically, the Fidelity account verification documentation requested was as follows:</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">2</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 3"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">7. Please provide statement for Fidelity [account] . . . from 01/26/2016 to 01/31/2021. Please also provide verification for any transactions for the amount of $2,000 and over. Verification must include copies of deposit slips and deposit check images, copies of withdrawal receipts, slips, invoices, etc, and copies of check receipts, check images, etc.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">On June 3, 2021, the County sent P.C. a third verification request. The letter stated: "Failure to provide the requested information and documentation within [ten] calendar days from the date of this letter may result in a denial of your application" and again requested documentation relating to the Fidelity account. The County requested the following verification records for the Fidelity account:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Please also provide verification for any transactions for the amount of $2,000 and over. Verification must [include] copies of withdrawal receipts, slips, invoices, etc, and copies of check receipts, check images, etc.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">A. Bank statement from 04/01/2018 to 06/01/2021. If the account was closed, please provide a letter from the bank stating so.<br />B. Withdrawal on 05/04/2016 for $ 6,500</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">C. Withdrawal on 01/25/2017 for [$] 2,200<br />On June 11, 2021, P.C.'s counsel emailed the County in response to the</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">third verification request and provided the County with most of "the requested documents per the letter." Additionally, P.C.'s counsel stated they were "working with Fidelity to obtain statements from April 2018-February 2019"</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">3</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 4"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">and that "Fidelity [had] purged [the] account from their system" so P.C. had to "provide a letter of instruction with the information needed to be processed through a different department within Fidelity."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">On July 12, 2021, one month after the provided June 13, 2021 submission deadline, P.C.'s counsel sent a letter to Fidelity seeking: account statements for the Fidelity account from April 2018 until February 2019; a transaction report for the May 4, 2016 withdrawal; a transaction report for the January 25, 2017 withdrawal; and a letter confirming the account was closed. The letter advised Fidelity that a "request is hereby made that you treat this request as urgent and provide the information requested above no later than July 28, 2021."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">On August 9, 2021, as the County had not received any further communications from P.C., it mailed a "Retroactive Notice of Eligibility" to P.C.'s counsel advising P.C. was "determined ineligible" for Medicaid benefits for the months of October 2020 through December 2020. The County determined that P.C. failed to provide verification for a Chase account and the Fidelity account, including "[a] letter from the bank stating . . . the account was closed." The County advised P.C. that she could seek to "provide sufficient information to rebut [the] denial" and she could request a fair hearing within twenty days of the date of the letter.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">4</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 5"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Two days after the denial, on August 11, 2021, Fidelity sent P.C.'s counsel a letter that confirmed the Fidelity account was closed on February 12, 2018. On August 13, 2021, two months after the June 13, 2021 deadline, P.C.'s counsel emailed a copy of the Fidelity letter to the County and stated, "Please see the attached letter from [F]idelity, there are no additional statements to be provided."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">P.C. sought a fair hearing, and the Division transmitted the matter to the Office of Administrative Law on August 30, 2021. At argument before the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), the County conceded "the only documentation that was not provided prior to its denial was information contained in the August 11, 2021 letter from Fidelity." The ALJ reversed the County's denial, finding P.C. acted in good faith to provide the documents requested and recommended the County's decision "must be reversed."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">On March 18, 2022, the Assistant Commissioner for the Division issued a final agency decision, which rejected the ALJ's recommended reversal and affirmed the County's denial of the Medicaid application. The Assistant Commissioner noted that County requested on two separate occasions, February 25, 2021 and June 3, 2021, for P.C. "to provide information regarding her Fidelity account by June 13, 2021." The Assistant Commissioner stated that</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">5</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 6"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">despite the County's June 13, 2021 deadline, P.C. "made no specific request for an extension of time" and only requested that Fidelity "provide the requested documentation by July 28, 2021," a month after receiving the request. The Assistant Commissioner recognized the County held P.C.'s application open for "nearly two months after [her] June 11, 2021 email," and found the County "was not able to complete its eligibility determination and the August 9, 2021 denial was appropriate." The Assistant Commissioner concluded the record contained "no documented exceptional circumstance warranting an extension of time beyond the 195 days the application remained open." This appeal followed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">II.<br />"This court's review of [the Division's] determination is ordinarily</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">limited." C.L. v. Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Services, 473 N.J. Super. 591, 597 (App. Div. 2022). "An administrative agency's decision will be upheld 'unless there is a clear showing that it is arbitrary, capricious, or unreasonable, or that it lacks fair support in the record.'" R.S. v. Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 434 N.J. Super. 250, 261 (App. Div. 2014) (quoting Russo v. Bd. of Trs., Police & Firemen's Ret. Sys., 206 N.J. 14, 27 (2011)). "The burden of demonstrating that the agency's action was arbitrary, capricious or unreasonable rests upon the [party] challenging the administrative action." E.S. v. Div. of</span></p></div></div><img alt="page6image2825684496" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/fbf94c77-0316-4b2d-8a1d-fb1a0a33bd7b" width="305.930000" /> <img alt="page6image2825684800" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/0735bd9a-5784-4027-b790-9ab20650fb8d" width="205.580000" /> <img alt="page6image2825685104" height="0.720313" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e5af22db-8c75-47d3-b7d7-756456493738" width="79.200000" /> <img alt="page6image2825685408" height="0.720313" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/39659161-d98e-44c0-a90b-63f25066a464" width="74.639800" /><img alt="page6image2825685712" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/4c77a2cb-4cc5-45f8-a226-7e730f48fcb9" width="218.780000" /> <img alt="page6image2825686016" height="0.720313" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/93eb1cbc-66c6-4221-a4bf-2e173a9bbce2" width="89.424200" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">6</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 7"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 412 N.J. Super. 340, 349 (App. Div. 2010) (alteration in original) (quoting In re Arenas, 385 N.J. Super. 440, 443-44 (App. Div. 2006)).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">"Deference to an agency decision is particularly appropriate where interpretation of the [a]gency's own regulation is in issue." I.L. v. N.J. Dep't Hum. Servs., Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 389 N.J. Super. 354, 364 (App. Div. 2006). "Nevertheless, we are 'in no way bound by the agency's interpretation of a statute or its determination of a strictly legal issue.'" C.L., 473 N.J. Super. at 598 (quoting R.S., 434 N.J. Super. at 261). Moreover, "[i]f our review of the record shows that the agency's finding is clearly mistaken, the decision is not entitled to judicial deference." A.M. v. Monmouth Cnty. Bd. of Soc. Servs., 466 N.J. Super. 557, 565 (App. Div. 2021) (first citing H.K. v. N.J. Dep't of Hum. Servs., 184 N.J. 367, 386 (2005), then citing L.M. v. Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 140 N.J. 480, 490 (1995)). The same is true "where an agency rejects an ALJ's findings of fact." Ibid. (citing H.K., 184 N.J. at 384).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">"Medicaid is a federally-created, state-implemented program that provides 'medical assistance to the poor at the expense of the public.'" Matter of Estate of Brown, 448 N.J. Super. 252, 256 (App. Div. 2017) (quoting Estate of DeMartino v. Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 373 N.J. Super. 210,</span></p></div></div><img alt="page7image2825866976" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/5174692f-a40b-467a-9c06-c959a46bf690" width="199.820000" /> <img alt="page7image2825867280" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/f94d0e02-0e9f-47e8-9e27-e596b67cd95e" width="72.143800" /> <img alt="page7image2825867584" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/71752aa9-d88c-46b4-94ff-5a7131f35067" width="102.500000" /> <img alt="page7image2825867888" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/c1410149-6f6a-4405-bd5e-fea9ff8e73db" width="316.850000" /><img alt="page7image2825868192" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/836add9a-95c9-49b6-9d17-a42851bf218b" width="191.420000" /> <img alt="page7image2825868496" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/9aaeae59-215b-445c-afd9-23d99df09304" width="65.880100" /> <img alt="page7image2825868800" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/bf805ecc-d66b-49cb-aa00-6c1eb22d7cde" width="70.680100" /> <img alt="page7image2825869104" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/2d3d598b-338a-49fc-9f96-7e0c94d7c3a5" width="122.160000" /> <img alt="page7image2825869536" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b72c8ff9-905e-4026-9758-5fe6bc413cb8" width="121.340000" /> <img alt="page7image2825869840" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/29a6c471-08bc-4b4f-bf71-f61cfd223c02" width="159.620000" /><img alt="page7image2825870144" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b244a98c-c04c-464b-a18d-50592d882f82" width="39.119900" /> <img alt="page7image2825870448" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/6368c70c-4897-48da-a938-b3de5a08520b" width="112.560000" /> <img alt="page7image2825870752" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/8136be27-95e2-4924-8523-9a04370868f9" width="35.880100" /> <img alt="page7image2825871056" height="0.720313" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/9a9be62c-36ce-4214-8619-2f3c896e00c6" width="339.890000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">7</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 8"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">217 (App. Div. 2004)); see also 42 U.S.C. § 1396-1. To receive federal funding, the State must comply with all federal statutes and regulations. Harris v. McRae, 448 U.S. 297, 301 (1980).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Pursuant to the New Jersey Medical Assistance and Health Services Act, N.J.S.A. 30:4D-1 to -19.5, the Division is responsible for administering Medicaid in our State. N.J.S.A. 30:4D-4. The Division is required to manage the State's Medicaid program in a fiscally responsible manner. See Dougherty v. Dep't of Hum. Servs., Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 91 N.J. 1, 4- 5, 10 (1982) (remanding back to the agency to consider the public interest and the "increasing social demands for limited public resources"). "[T]o be financially eligible, the applicant must meet both income and resource standards." Estate of Brown, 448 N.J. Super. at 257; see also N.J.A.C. 10:71- 3.15; N.J.A.C. 10:71-1.2(a).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">One of the objectives of Medicaid is to "provide[] medical assistance to needy persons who are institutionalized in nursing homes as [a] result of illness or other incapacity." R.S., 434 N.J. Super. at 258 (quoting M.E.F. v. A.B.F., 393 N.J. Super. 543, 545 (App. Div. 2007)). The local County Welfare Agency (CWA) "exercise[s] direct responsibility in the application process to . . . [r]eceive applications." N.J.A.C. 10:71-2.2(c)(2). CWA is defined as "that</span></p></div></div><img alt="page8image2825031072" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/3ec627f7-5bdc-46c8-9e6f-430579427310" width="45.840200" /> <img alt="page8image2825031376" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/729f6799-913a-4456-9927-e1946e4272bc" width="95.663700" /> <img alt="page8image2825031680" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b56e1867-7133-493c-b152-95880ec3ad28" width="62.639800" /> <img alt="page8image2825031984" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/ce57cdf9-d60d-4b85-8403-d1c732515ac5" width="387.410000" /> <img alt="page8image2825032288" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/04a08b98-c37b-4118-b707-466384a8a2b3" width="96.864100" /> <img alt="page8image2825032592" height="0.719922" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/efb5ef7e-6e5e-4063-b8b6-da67ba2188a2" width="47.040200" /><img alt="page8image2825032896" height="0.720313" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/536ba304-b01d-48be-a320-83eca0680da1" width="101.780000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">8</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 9"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">agency of county government, that is charged with the responsibility for determining eligibility for public assistance programs, including [Aid to Families with Dependent Children]-Related Medicaid, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), the Food Stamp Program, NJ FamilyCare and Medicaid." N.J.A.C. 10:71-2.1. The CWA is charged with evaluating an applicant's eligibility for Medicaid benefits. N.J.S.A. 30:4D-7a; N.J.A.C. 10:71-2.2(a); N.J.A.C. 10:71-3.15.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">"The process of establishing eligibility involves a review of the application for completeness, consistency, and reasonableness." N.J.A.C. 10:71-2.9. Applicants must provide the CWA with specific verifications which are identified for the applicant. The CWA is responsible for assisting an applicant "in exploring their eligibility for assistance," N.J.A.C. 10:71-2.2(c)(3), and making known to the applicant "the appropriate resources and services both within the agency and the community, and, if necessary, assist in their use," N.J.A.C. 10:71-2.2(c)(4). The applicant is required to "complete, with the assistance from the CWA if needed, any forms required by the CWA as a part of the application process." N.J.A.C. 10:71-2.2(e)(1). While the applicant is "the primary source of information," the CWA is responsible for making "the determination of eligibility and to use secondary sources when necessary, with</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">9</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 10"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">the applicant's knowledge and consent." N.J.A.C. 10:71-1.6(a)(2). The applicant is responsible for cooperating fully with the verification process if the CWA has to contact the third-party in reference to verifying resources. N.J.A.C. 10:71-4.1(d)(3)(i). The agency may perform a collateral investigation to "verify, supplement or clarify essential information." N.J.A.C. 10:71-2.10(b).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Following a review of the record and applicable legal principles, we affirm the Assistant Commissioner's final agency decision. P.C.'s argument that she provided the County with all the requested verifications is without merit. The Assistant Commissioner correctly noted that P.C. "was asked on two occasions, in February and June 2021, to provide information regarding her Fidelity account." It is additionally undisputed that the County required P.C. to submit a letter from Fidelity by June 13, 2021; however, P.C. did not submit the letter until August 11, 2021</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">—</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">two months after the provided deadline and two days after the County denied her application.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">P.C.'s contention that the Assistant Commissioner erred in finding she failed to effectively communicate with the County is also unavailing. The Assistant Commissioner observed that P.C.'s counsel "notified [the County] that . . . they were seeking additional documentation" on June 11, 2021, and thereafter "made no specific request of an extension" and did not notify the</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">10</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 11"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">County of her efforts to obtain the letter. P.C. was required to provide evidence that corroborated her self-attested statement regarding the Fidelity account, and though P.C. advised the County that she was seeking additional evidence, she did not timely provide the required verification documents for nearly two months. Therefore, the Assistant Commissioner's decision finding that "[w]ith no additional communications or documentation" from P.C. following her June 11, 2021 email, the County "was not able to complete its eligibility determination and the August 9, 2021 denial was appropriate" was not arbitrary, capricious, or unreasonable.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">To the extent we have not addressed any of plaintiff's remaining arguments, they are without sufficient merit to warrant discussion in a written opinion. R. 2:11-3(e)(1)(E).</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">Affirmed.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page11image2572645264" height="60.600000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/95c6d66f-560d-4309-adcb-bf4677dedd6f" width="124.800000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 14pt;">11</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8pt;">A-2630-21</span></p></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-74116839394366052202024-01-16T10:38:00.001-05:002024-01-16T10:38:09.900-05:00Piscataway Library Estate Planning and Probate Seminar<p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><a name="OLE_LINK1"></a><a name="OLE_LINK2"></a><a name="OLE_LINK3"></a><a name="OLE_LINK5"></a><a name="OLE_LINK4"></a><a name="OLE_LINK6"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Piscataway Library</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Estate
Planning and Probate <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">March 12 ,
2024 at 6pm live and also Facebook live.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: 6.5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">SPEAKER:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Kenneth
Vercammen, Esq. Edison, (Author- ABA’s “Wills and Estate Administration book”)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><u><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Main
Topics:</span></u></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">What goes
into a Will</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Dangers If
You Have No Will or documents invalid</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Getting
your Estate Planning Documents done when you don’t need to drive i a law office</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">NJ Estate Tax
eliminated and Inheritance Tax reduced<span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Power of Attorneys
recommendations<span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Living Will &
Advance Directive for Medical Care<span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Administering the Estate/Probate
/Surrogate<span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Avoiding unnecessary
expenses and saving your family money<span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: 6.5in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK3;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK4;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK6;"></span>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Piscataway Public Library Kennedy Branch</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">500 Hoes Lane </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Piscataway NJ 08854</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 40.5pt 112.0pt 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">732-463-1633x6</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 40.5pt 112.0pt 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Link for free registration: </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 40.5pt 112.0pt 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><a href="https://piscataway.librarycalendar.com/event/estate-planning-seminar-16542">https://piscataway.librarycalendar.com/event/estate-planning-seminar-16542</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 40.5pt 112.0pt 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 40.5pt 112.0pt 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 6.5in 490.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">more info:</span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><a href="https://piscatawaylibrary.org">https://piscatawaylibrary.org</a></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 5.25in 423.0pt 441.0pt 463.0pt 6.5in 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">FB _</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 5.25in 423.0pt 441.0pt 463.0pt 6.5in 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Free
Will Seminars and Speakers Bureau for Groups</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 5.25in 423.0pt 441.0pt 463.0pt 6.5in 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">SPEAKERS BUREAU</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 6.5in 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the request of senior citizen
groups, unions, and Middlesex County companies and organizations, the "
Speakers Bureau " is a service designed to educate citizens about how laws
affect their lives and how the judicial system operates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have attorneys available to speak to
businesspersons, educational, civic and social organizations on a wide range of
topics during business hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your organization
in Central NJ would like to schedule a Will & Estates seminar, call Kenneth
Vercammen’s Law Office at 732-572-0500 or email <u>Vercammenlaw@njlaws.com</u></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>10 years ago the AARP
Network Attorneys of the Edison/Metuchen/Woodbridge area several years ago
established a community Speakers Bureau to provide educational programs to AARP
and senior clubs, Unions and Middlesex County companies. Now, Ken Vercammen, Esq.
and volunteer attorneys of the Middlesex County Estate Planning Council have
provided Legal Rights Seminars to hundreds of seniors, business owners and
their employees, unions, clubs and non-profit groups </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Details on free
programs available</span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These quality daytime
educational programs will educate and even entertain. Clubs and companies are invited
to schedule a free seminar. The following Seminars are now available: </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">1. WILLS & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION-PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">MAKE PLANNING EASY </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">2. POWER OF ATTORNEY to permit family to pay your bills if you are
temporarily disabled and permit doctors to talk with family </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All instructors are licensed attorneys
who have been in practice at least 25 years. All instructors are members of the
American Bar Association, New Jersey </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">State Bar Association, and Middlesex County Bar Association. All
programs include free written materials. </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don't have to be
wealthy or near death to do some thinking about a Will. Here is your
opportunity to listen to an experienced attorney who will discuss how to distribute
your property as you wish and avoid many rigid provisions of state law. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 5.25in 423.0pt 441.0pt 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Topics discussed include: Who needs a Will?;
What if you die without a Will (intestacy)?; Mechanics of a Will; "Living
Will"; Powers of Attorney; Selecting an executor, trustee, and guardian;
Proper Will execution; Inheritance Taxes, Estate Taxes $14,000 annual gift tax
exclusion,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bequests to charity, Why you
need a "Self-Proving" Will and Estate Administration/ Probate.</span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sample materials: Hand-outs on Wills, Living
Wills/Medical Advance Directive, Power of Attorney, Probate and Administration
of an Estate, Real Estate, Working with your Attorney, Consumers Guide to New
Jersey Laws, and Senior Citizen Rights. </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">SPEAKERS BUREAU </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the request of
senior citizen groups, unions, and Middlesex County companies and
organizations, the " Speakers Bureau " is a service designed to
educate citizens about how laws affect their lives and how the judicial system
operates. We have attorneys available to speak to businesspersons, educational,
civic and social organizations on a wide range of topics during business hours.
</span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In today's complex world, few people can function successfully and
safely without competent legal advice. In order to insure your estate plans are
legally set up, you need to know exactly where you stand so that you can avoid
possibly catastrophic mistakes impacting both you and your family. </span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>About
the speaker: Kenneth A. Vercammen is a trial attorney in Edison, NJ. We is the
author of the American Bar Association’s book “Wills and Estate Administration”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">He is co-chair of the ABA Probate & Estate
Planning Law Committee of the American Bar Association Solo Small Firm
Division.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is a speaker for the NJ State
Bar Association at the annual Nuts & Bolts of Elder Law & Estate
Administration program. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">He was Editor of the ABA Estate Planning
Probate Committee Newsletter. Mr. Vercammen has published over 150 legal
articles in national and New Jersey publications on litigation, elder law,
probate and trial topics. He is a highly regarded lecturer on litigation and
probate law for the American Bar Association, NJ ICLE, New Jersey State Bar
Association and Middlesex County Bar Association. His articles have been published
in noted publications included New Jersey Law Journal, ABA Law Practice Management
Magazine, and New Jersey Lawyer. He established the NJlaws website <u>www.njlaws.com</u>
which includes many articles on Estate Planning, Probate and Wills. He is a member
of the AARP and often lectures to groups on the importance of an up to date
Will, Power of Attorney and Living Will.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 12.0pt; tab-stops: .25in 27.0pt 31.5pt center 225.0pt 238.0pt left 355.0pt 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">KENNETH<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>VERCAMMEN & ASSOCIATES, PC</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 355.0pt 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">ATTORNEY AT LAW</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 355.0pt 5.25in 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">2053 Woodbridge Ave.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 355.0pt 5.25in 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Edison, NJ 08817</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 355.0pt 5.25in 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">(Phone) 732-572-0500</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 463.0pt 6.5in 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><u><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">www.njlaws.com </span></u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; tab-stops: .25in .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></b></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:Courier;
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-alt:"Courier New";
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073711037 9 0 511 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"New York";
panose-1:2 11 6 4 2 2 2 2 2 4;
mso-font-alt:"Times New Roman";
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"MS Mincho";
panose-1:2 2 6 9 4 2 5 8 3 4;
mso-font-alt:"MS 明朝";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 134217746 0 131231 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Geneva;
panose-1:2 11 5 3 3 4 4 4 2 4;
mso-font-alt:Geneva;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1375739999 10534912 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"\@MS Mincho";
panose-1:2 2 6 9 4 2 5 8 3 4;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 134217746 0 131231 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"New York",serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}p.MsoFooter, li.MsoFooter, div.MsoFooter
{mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-link:"Footer Char";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
tab-stops:center 3.0in right 6.0in;
font-size:12.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"New York",serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-parent:"";
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#96607D;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}p.MsoPlainText, li.MsoPlainText, div.MsoPlainText
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-link:"Plain Text Char";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Courier;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}span.PlainTextChar
{mso-style-name:"Plain Text Char";
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-locked:yes;
mso-style-link:"Plain Text";
mso-ansi-font-size:12.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Courier;
mso-ascii-font-family:Courier;
mso-hansi-font-family:Courier;}span.apple-converted-space
{mso-style-name:apple-converted-space;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-parent:"";}span.FooterChar
{mso-style-name:"Footer Char";
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-locked:yes;
mso-style-link:Footer;
mso-ansi-font-size:12.0pt;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"New York",serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:"New York";
mso-hansi-font-family:"New York";
mso-font-kerning:0pt;
mso-ligatures:none;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}</style></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-64206487119423899502023-12-22T12:44:00.001-05:002023-12-22T12:44:06.429-05:00Woodbridge Library Wills, Estate Planning & Probate Seminar<p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><a name="OLE_LINK114"></a><a name="OLE_LINK115"></a><a name="OLE_LINK121"></a><a name="OLE_LINK122"></a><a name="OLE_LINK112"></a><a name="OLE_LINK113"></a><a name="OLE_LINK110"></a><a name="OLE_LINK111"></a><a name="OLE_LINK108"></a><a name="OLE_LINK109"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK108;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK111;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK110;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK113;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK112;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Woodbridge
Library</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK109;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK108;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK111;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK110;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK113;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK112;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Wills, Estate Planning
& Probate Seminar</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK110;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK111;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK108;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK109;"></span>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK113;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK112;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">April 30 , 2024 </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK113;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK112;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma;">at 6:30.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK113;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK112;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK112;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK113;"></span>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This event will
take place <u>in-person </u> at the Woodbridge Main Library. </span></b></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Free program open to
the public, you do not need to be a Township resident to attend.</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">WILLS & ESTATE
ADMINISTRATION-PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND MAKE PLANNING EASY </span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>SPEAKER: Kenneth Vercammen, Esq. Edison, NJ
(Author- Wills and Estate Administration by the ABA)</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><u><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Main Topics:</span></u></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 459.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Administering the
Estate/Probate /Surrogate</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Dangers If
You Have No Will or documents invalid</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Getting
your Estate Planning Documents done when you can’t go into a law office</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">What goes
into a Will</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 459.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Power of Attorneys
recommendations</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 459.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Living Will &
Advance Directive for Medical Care</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 459.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Avoiding unnecessary expenses
and saving your family money</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">This is where participants can register :</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"></span></span></span></span><a href="https://woodbridgelibrary.evanced.info/signup/EventDetails?EventId=15012&backTo=Calendar&startDate=2023/11/01" target="_blank"></a><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: #006693; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>__</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For questions about registration to this
program please contact </span></b></span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Najea Grimes Library Associate</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Woodbridge Public Library George Frederick Plaza</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Woodbridge, NJ 07095 732-634-4450 ext.7117</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></span></span></span></span><a href="mailto:ngrimes@woodbridgelibrary.org"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">ngrimes@woodbridgelibrary.org</span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: .25in; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span></span></span></span></span></p>
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK121;"></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK122;"></span>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-right: .25in; tab-stops: 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">FB _</span></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-right: .25in; tab-stops: 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Can’t attend?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
can email you materials Send email to </span></b></span></span><a href="mailto:VercammenLaw@Njlaws.com"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">VercammenLaw@Njlaws.com</span></b></span></span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"></span></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-right: .25in; tab-stops: 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 5.25in 423.0pt 441.0pt 463.0pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Free Will Seminars and Speakers Bureau for Groups</span></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 5.25in 423.0pt 441.0pt 463.0pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">SPEAKERS BUREAU</span></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At the request of senior citizen groups, unions, and Middlesex County
companies and organizations, the " Speakers Bureau " is a service
designed to educate citizens about how laws affect their lives and how the
judicial system operates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have
attorneys available to speak to businesspersons, educational, civic and social
organizations on a wide range of topics during business hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your organization in Central NJ would like
to schedule a Will & Estates seminar, call Kenneth Vercammen’s Law Office
at 732-572-0500 or email Vercammenlaw@njlaws.com</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>10 years ago the AARP
Network Attorneys of the Edison/Metuchen/Woodbridge area several years ago
established a community Speakers Bureau to provide educational programs to AARP
and senior clubs, Unions and Middlesex County companies. Now, Ken Vercammen,
Esq. and volunteer attorneys of the Middlesex County Estate Planning Council
have provided Legal Rights Seminars to hundreds of seniors, business owners and
their employees, unions, clubs and non-profit groups </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Details on free
programs available</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These quality daytime
educational programs will educate and even entertain. Clubs and companies are
invited to schedule a free seminar. The following Seminars are now available: </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">1. WILLS & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION-PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">MAKE PLANNING EASY </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">2. POWER OF ATTORNEY to permit family to pay your bills if you are
temporarily disabled and permit doctors to talk with family </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All instructors are
licensed attorneys who have been in practice at least 25 years. All instructors
are members of the American Bar Association, New Jersey </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">State Bar Association, and Middlesex County Bar Association. All
programs include free written materials. </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don't have to be
wealthy or near death to do some thinking about a Will. Here is your
opportunity to listen to an experienced attorney who will discuss how to
distribute your property as you wish and avoid many rigid provisions of state
law. </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt .5in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 5.25in 423.0pt 441.0pt 463.0pt 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Topics discussed
include: Who needs a Will?; What if you die without a Will (intestacy)?;
Mechanics of a Will; "Living Will"; Powers of Attorney; Selecting an
executor, trustee, and guardian; Proper Will execution; Inheritance Taxes,
Estate Taxes $14,000 annual gift tax exclusion,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bequests to charity, Why you need a "Self-Proving" Will and
Estate Administration/ Probate.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sample materials:
Hand-outs on Wills, Living Wills/Medical Advance Directive, Power of Attorney,
Probate and Administration of an Estate, Real Estate, Working with your
Attorney, Consumers Guide to New Jersey Laws, and Senior Citizen Rights. </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">SPEAKERS BUREAU </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">At the request of senior citizen groups, unions, and Middlesex
County companies and organizations, the " Speakers Bureau " is a
service designed to educate citizens about how laws affect their lives and how
the judicial system operates. We have attorneys available to speak to
businesspersons, educational, civic and social organizations on a wide range of
topics during business hours. </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";">In today's complex world, few people can function successfully and
safely without competent legal advice. In order to insure your estate plans are
legally set up, you need to know exactly where you stand so that you can avoid
possibly catastrophic mistakes impacting both you and your family. </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho";"> </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 463.0pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">About the speaker: Kenneth A. Vercammen is a trial
attorney in Edison, NJ. We is the author of the American Bar Association’s book
“Wills and Estate Administration”</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 463.0pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">He is co-chair of the ABA Probate & Estate Planning
Law Committee of the American Bar Association Solo Small Firm Division.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is a speaker for the NJ State Bar
Association at the annual Nuts & Bolts of Elder Law & Estate
Administration program. </span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 463.0pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">He was Editor of the ABA Estate Planning Probate Committee
Newsletter. Mr. Vercammen has published over 150 legal articles in national and
New Jersey publications on litigation, elder law, probate and trial topics. He
is a highly regarded lecturer on litigation and probate law for the American
Bar Association, NJ ICLE, New Jersey State Bar Association and Middlesex County
Bar Association. His articles have been published in noted publications
included New Jersey Law Journal, ABA Law Practice Management Magazine, and New
Jersey Lawyer. He established the NJlaws website <u>www.njlaws.com</u> which
includes many articles on Estate Planning, Probate and Wills. He is a member of
the AARP and often lectures to groups on the importance of an up to date Will,
Power of Attorney and Living Will.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 12.0pt; tab-stops: .25in 27.0pt 31.5pt center 225.0pt 238.0pt left 355.0pt 463.0pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">KENNETH<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>VERCAMMEN & ASSOCIATES, PC</b></span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 355.0pt 463.0pt 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">ATTORNEY AT LAW</span></b></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 355.0pt 5.25in 463.0pt 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">2053 Woodbridge Ave.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 355.0pt 5.25in 463.0pt 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">Edison, NJ 08817</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 355.0pt 5.25in 463.0pt 481.5pt 489.95pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">(Phone) 732-572-0500</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt 351.0pt 463.0pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Fax)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>732-572-0030</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: .25in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .25in 31.5pt .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt 463.0pt 481.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK115;"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK114;"><u><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;">www.njlaws.com </span></u></span></span><u><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt;"></span></u></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:Courier;
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073711037 9 0 511 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"MS Mincho";
panose-1:2 2 6 9 4 2 5 8 3 4;
mso-font-alt:"MS 明朝";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 134217746 0 131231 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Geneva;
panose-1:2 11 5 3 3 4 4 4 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1375739999 10534912 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"Helvetica Neue";
panose-1:2 0 5 3 0 0 0 2 0 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-452984065 1342208475 16 0 1 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Tahoma;
panose-1:2 11 6 4 3 5 4 4 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-520081665 -1073717157 41 0 66047 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"\@MS Mincho";
panose-1:2 2 6 9 4 2 5 8 3 4;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 134217746 0 131231 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";}a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:#0563C1;
mso-themecolor:hyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}p.MsoPlainText, li.MsoPlainText, div.MsoPlainText
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-link:"Plain Text Char";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Courier;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}p.MsoListParagraph, li.MsoListParagraph, div.MsoListParagraph
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}p.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}p.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}p.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}span.PlainTextChar
{mso-style-name:"Plain Text Char";
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-locked:yes;
mso-style-link:"Plain Text";
font-family:Courier;
mso-ascii-font-family:Courier;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-hansi-font-family:Courier;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-font-kerning:0pt;
mso-ligatures:none;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}</style></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-17676658513300667012023-12-01T16:28:00.006-05:002023-12-01T16:28:37.731-05:00Wills & Power of Attorney Seminar North Brunswick <p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Wills & Power of Attorney Seminar </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>North
Brunswick Chapter #3885 of AARP</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><a name="OLE_LINK1"></a><a name="OLE_LINK2"><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">February 5, 2024 at </span></b></span></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">12:30</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">North Brunswick Senior Center, 15 Linwood Place, North
Brunswick, NJ 08902</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 112.0pt 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: 1.3in; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify;"><u><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Main
Topics:</span></u><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.3in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Dangers If
You Have No Will or documents invalid</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.3in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Getting
your Estate Planning Documents done </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.3in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">What’s new
in 2024 in Estate Planning</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: 1.3in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 459.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Power of Attorneys
recommendations</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: 1.3in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 459.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Living Will &
Advance Directive for Medical Care</span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: 1.3in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 459.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Avoiding unnecessary
expenses and saving your family money </span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 27.0pt; margin-right: 1.3in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: 45.0pt 459.0pt 6.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Administering the Estate/Probate
/Surrogate</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: 4.5pt 22.0pt 1.5in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">COMPLIMENTARY
MATERIAL: </b>Brochures on Wills, "Answers to Questions about
Probate" and Administration of an Estate, Power of Attorney, Living Wills,
and Trusts.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 112.0pt 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">SPEAKER: </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Kenneth Vercammen, Esq. Edison, NJ</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 112.0pt 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Author-
Answers to Questions About Probate)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Must Join
the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">North Brunswick Chapter #3885 of
AARP to attend</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"> </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; margin-top: 0in; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">Call 732-670-6677</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-right: 44.7pt; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 2.75in 3.25in 369.0pt; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;"> </span></b></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"New York";
panose-1:2 11 6 4 2 2 2 2 2 4;
mso-font-alt:"Times New Roman";
mso-font-charset:77;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-format:other;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Geneva;
panose-1:2 11 5 3 3 4 4 4 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1375739999 10534912 0 415 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"New York",serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}p.MsoListParagraph, li.MsoListParagraph, div.MsoListParagraph
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}p.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}p.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}p.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, li.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast, div.MsoListParagraphCxSpLast
{mso-style-priority:34;
mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-type:export-only;
margin-top:0in;
margin-right:0in;
margin-bottom:0in;
margin-left:.5in;
mso-add-space:auto;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"New York",serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:"New York";
mso-hansi-font-family:"New York";
mso-font-kerning:0pt;
mso-ligatures:none;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}ol
{margin-bottom:0in;}ul
{margin-bottom:0in;}</style></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-11228697442037178542023-11-30T14:04:00.002-05:002023-11-30T14:04:14.352-05:0090th Semi-Annual Tax and Estate Planning Forum<p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: Montserrat; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; padding: 0in;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </span></b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dec 6, 2023 9:00 a.m. –
5:00 p.m.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: Montserrat; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; padding: 0in;">Location: </span></b><b><span style="color: #540000; font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">New Jersey Law Center, New Brunswick and Online</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: Montserrat; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; padding: 0in;">Areas
of Law: </span></b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Estate Law</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://njsba.com/event/90th-semi-annual-tax-and-estate-planning-forum/">https://njsba.com/event/90th-semi-annual-tax-and-estate-planning-forum/</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">Location:</span></strong><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt;">New Jersey Law Center, New
Brunswick and Online</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">NJ Bar Member Price:</span></strong><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span></b></span><span style="font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt;">$188</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;">Non-Member Price:</span></strong><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in;"> </span></b></span><span style="font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 13.0pt;">$235</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Includes Lunch and book</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="color: #8c0e0f; font-family: Montserrat; letter-spacing: .75pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-transform: uppercase;">MODERATOR</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">John J. Miesowitz, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ventura
Miesowitz Keough & Warner PC, Summit</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">John
L. Pritchard, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Law
Offices of John L Pritchard, Esq., Union</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">Keynote</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Shirley B. Whitenack,
Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Schenck
Price Smith & King, Florham Park</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 3.75pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="color: #8c0e0f; font-family: Montserrat; letter-spacing: .75pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-transform: uppercase;">PRESENTERS</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Eric A. Carosia, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Berkowitz
Lichtstein Kuritsky Giasullo & Gross LLC, Roseland</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Richard
H. Greenberg, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Past
Chair, NJSBA Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section, Greenberg &
Schulman, Monroe</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Glenn
A. Henkel, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Kulzer
& DiPadova PA, Haddonfield</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .75in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jack
F. Meola, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">EisnerAmper
LLP, Iselin</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary
A. Prince, Jr., Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Mantell
Prince & Reynolds PC, Basking Ridge</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Timothy
P. Terry, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sonnenschein
Nath & Rosenthal LLP, Short Hills</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stacey
M. Valentine, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Avelino
Law, LLP, Morristown</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.75in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Kenneth
A. Vercammen, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Kenneth
Vercammen & Associates, PC, Edison</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 2.0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Leonard
J. Witman, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Witman
Stadtmauer PA, Florham Park</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 2.25in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Amanda
Claire Wolfe, Esq.</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Post
Polak, Roseland</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="border: none windowtext 1.0pt; color: #dca958; font-family: Montserrat; mso-border-alt: none windowtext 0in; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; padding: 0in;">Earn up to 7.9 credits!</span></b><b><span style="color: #dca958; font-family: Montserrat; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></b></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Geneva;
panose-1:2 11 5 3 3 4 4 4 2 4;
mso-font-alt:Geneva;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1375739999 10534912 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Montserrat;
panose-1:0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:77;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:536871439 3 0 0 407 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:13.0pt;
font-family:"Geneva",sans-serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
color:black;}a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}p
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-margin-top-alt:auto;
margin-right:0in;
mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";}span.apple-converted-space
{mso-style-name:apple-converted-space;
mso-style-unhide:no;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:13.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:13.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;
font-family:"Geneva",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Geneva;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Geneva;
color:black;
mso-font-kerning:0pt;
mso-ligatures:none;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-89950534387747788942023-08-22T11:11:00.001-04:002023-08-22T11:11:01.529-04:00 Sayreville Public Library Wills & Power of Attorney Seminar<p> <span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Sayreville Public Library Wills & Power of Attorney Seminar</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">October 30, 2023 at 6:30pm</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Open to the public. You do not need to be a resident.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">SPEAKERS:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Kenneth Vercammen, Esq. Edison, (Author- ABA’s “Wills and Estate Administration book”)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 27pt; margin-right: 76pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 76pt 0pt 27pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2023 Main Topics:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 27pt; margin-right: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 18pt 0pt 27pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 7pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Administering the Estate/Probate /Surrogate</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-right: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 18pt 0pt 36pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 7pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Dangers If You Have No Will or documents invalid</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-right: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 18pt 0pt 36pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 7pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Getting your Estate Planning Documents done when you can’t go into a law office</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 36pt; margin-right: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 18pt 0pt 36pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 7pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What goes into a Will</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 27pt; margin-right: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 18pt 0pt 27pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 7pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Power of Attorneys recommendations</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 27pt; margin-right: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 18pt 0pt 27pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">6.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 7pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Living Will & Advance Directive for Medical Care</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 27pt; margin-right: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 18pt 0pt 27pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">7.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 7pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Avoiding unnecessary expenses and saving your family money</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 27pt; margin-right: 76pt; margin-top: 0pt; margin: 0pt 76pt 0pt 27pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">WILLS & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION-PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND MAKE PLANNING</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This event is free & open to the public.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Registration at __</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For info, call 732.727.0212</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 11pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Sayreville Library "Aziza Haque (Sayreville)" ahaque@lmxac.org</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 11pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1050 Washington Road</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 11pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Parlin NJ 08859</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 11pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">FB __</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 11pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-left: 18pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 11pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Can’t attend? We can email you materials. Send email to </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="color: blue; font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">VercammenLaw@Njlaws.com</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Free Will Seminars and Speakers Bureau for Groups</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">SPEAKERS BUREAU</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> At the request of senior citizen groups, unions, and Middlesex County companies and organizations, the " Speakers Bureau " is a service designed to educate citizens about how laws affect their lives and how the judicial system operates. We have attorneys available to speak to businesspersons, educational, civic and social organizations on a wide range of topics during business hours. If your organization in Central NJ would like to schedule a Will & Estates seminar, call Kenneth Vercammen’s Law Office at 732-572-0500 or email </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Vercammenlaw@njlaws.com</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">10 years ago the AARP Network Attorneys of the Edison/Metuchen/Woodbridge area several years ago established a community Speakers Bureau to provide educational programs to AARP and senior clubs, Unions and Middlesex County companies. Now, Ken Vercammen, Esq. and volunteer attorneys of the Middlesex County Estate Planning Council have provided Legal Rights Seminars to hundreds of seniors, business owners and their employees, unions, clubs and non-profit groups</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Details on free programs available</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">These quality daytime educational programs will educate and even entertain. Clubs and companies are invited to schedule a free seminar. The following Seminars are now available:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1. WILLS & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION-PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">MAKE PLANNING EASY</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2. POWER OF ATTORNEY to permit family to pay your bills if you are temporarily disabled and permit doctors to talk with family</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> All instructors are licensed attorneys who have been in practice at least 25 years. All instructors are members of the American Bar Association, New Jersey</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">State Bar Association, and Middlesex County Bar Association. All programs include free written materials.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">You don't have to be wealthy or near death to do some thinking about a Will. Here is your opportunity to listen to an experienced attorney who will discuss how to distribute your property as you wish and avoid many rigid provisions of state law.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.8; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Topics discussed include: Who needs a Will?; What if you die without a Will (intestacy)?; Mechanics of a Will; "Living Will"; Powers of Attorney; Selecting an executor, trustee, and guardian; Proper Will execution; Inheritance Taxes, Estate Taxes $14,000 annual gift tax exclusion, Bequests to charity, Why you need a "Self-Proving" Will and Estate Administration/ Probate.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Sample materials: Hand-outs on Wills, Living Wills/Medical Advance Directive, Power of Attorney, Probate and Administration of an Estate, Real Estate, Working with your Attorney, Consumers Guide to New Jersey Laws, and Senior Citizen Rights.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">SPEAKERS BUREAU</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">At the request of senior citizen groups, unions, and Middlesex County companies and organizations, the " Speakers Bureau " is a service designed to educate citizens about how laws affect their lives and how the judicial system operates. We have attorneys available to speak to businesspersons, educational, civic and social organizations on a wide range of topics during business hours.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In today's complex world, few people can function successfully and safely without competent legal advice. In order to insure your estate plans are legally set up, you need to know exactly where you stand so that you can avoid possibly catastrophic mistakes impacting both you and your family.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">About the speaker: Kenneth A. Vercammen is a trial attorney in Edison, NJ. We is the author of the American Bar Association’s book “Wills and Estate Administration”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He is co-chair of the ABA Probate & Estate Planning Law Committee of the American Bar Association Solo Small Firm Division. He is a speaker for the NJ State Bar Association at the annual Nuts & Bolts of Elder Law & Estate Administration program.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He was Editor of the ABA Estate Planning Probate Committee Newsletter. Mr. Vercammen has published over 150 legal articles in national and New Jersey publications on litigation, elder law, probate and trial topics. He is a highly regarded lecturer on litigation and probate law for the American Bar Association, NJ ICLE, New Jersey State Bar Association and Middlesex County Bar Association. His articles have been published in noted publications included New Jersey Law Journal, ABA Law Practice Management Magazine, and New Jersey Lawyer. He established the NJlaws website </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">www.njlaws.com</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> which includes many articles on Estate Planning, Probate and Wills. He is a member of the AARP and often lectures to groups on the importance of an up to date Will, Power of Attorney and Living Will.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">KENNETH VERCAMMEN & ASSOCIATES, PC</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">ATTORNEY AT LAW</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2053 Woodbridge Ave.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Edison, NJ 08817</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">(Phone) 732-572-0500</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> (Fax)</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="text-wrap: nowrap;"> </span></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">732-572-0030</span></p><p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a78e08dc-7fff-296f-51b4-52f4ddac9189"></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-right: 31pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 13pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">www.njlaws.com</span></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-46841122938285623492023-08-16T14:08:00.001-04:002023-08-16T14:08:35.155-04:00Wills, Probate and Elder Law - Adult and Community Education Monday March 8, 2010 7 - 8:30 P.M<h1 align="center"><strong> Wills, Probate and Elder Law - Adult and Community Education Monday March 8, 2010 7 - 8:30 P.M</strong></h1> <p></p><p> </p> <p><strong>WILLS, PROBATE AND ELDER LAW- Adult and Community Education</strong></p> <p><strong>WHEN: Monday March 8, 2010 </strong></p> <p><strong>7 - 8:30 P.M.</strong></p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p><strong>East Brunswick Adult & Community Education Program </strong></p> <p><strong>East Brunswick High School, </strong>380 <strong>Cranbury Rd</strong></p> <p><strong>Fee: $29 </strong></p> <p><strong> For additional information, call the East Brunswick Adult Education Office for registration information 732- 613-6989</strong></p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p><strong>Instructor: Kenneth Vercammen, Esq. of Edison</strong></p> <p><strong>(Co-Author- NJ Elder Law & Probate)</strong></p> <p><strong>COMPLIMENTARY
MATERIAL: Brochures on Wills, “Probate and Administration of an
Estate”, Power of Attorney, Living Wills, Real Estate Sales for
Seniors, and Trusts.</strong></p> <p><strong> </strong></p> <p><strong>
You don’t have to be wealthy or near death to do some thinking about a
will. Here is your opportunity to listen to an experienced attorney who
will discuss how to distribute your property as you wish and avoid many
rigid provisions of the state law. Topics covered by author of “Answer
to questions about Probate” will include: Wills, revocable trusts,
irrevocable trusts, power of attorney, living will, long term care
insurance, reverse mortgage, plus the opportunity to ask questions. </strong></p> <p><strong>Here
is your opportunity to listen to an experienced attorney who will
answer questions how to distribute your property and avoid many rigid
provisions of state law. For more information on Elder law, visit the
Website www.CentralJerseyElderLaw.com. You can also subscribe to the
free email Elder Law newsletter by visiting the website.</strong></p> <p><strong>For additional information, call the East Brunswick Adult Education Office for registration information 732- 613-6989</strong></p> <p><strong>KENNETH VERCAMMEN & ASSOCIATES, PC</strong></p> <p><strong>ATTORNEY AT LAW</strong></p> <p>2053 Woodbridge Ave.</p> <p>Edison, NJ 08817</p> <p>(Phone) 732-572-0500</p> <p> (Fax) 732-572-0030</p> <p>website: www.njlaws.com</p><p> </p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-83309765437932679842023-08-16T14:05:00.001-04:002023-08-16T14:05:17.496-04:00Wills, Probate and Elder Law<h1 align="center"><strong> Wills, Probate and Elder Law</strong></h1> <p></p><p><strong> WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING</strong></p><p><strong>SAVE MONEY AND PROVIDE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES </strong></p><p><strong>By Kenneth A. Vercammen, Esq. </strong></p><p>
As average Americans, we work 80,000 hours in a lifetime, or 45 to 55
years. In spite of all the resources and assets we earn, the vast
majority of us do not take the time to create a Will.</p><p>
National statistics indicate that 80% of Americans die without leaving a
Will. There are several reasons for this: fear of death;
procrastination; and misinformation (people presume that only the rich
need to have Wills). Whatever the excuse, it is clear that people would
benefit from having a Will.</p><p> In the absence of a Will or
other legal arrangement to distribute property at death, the state must
step in to administer the estate. The result can be lengthy delays
before the rightful heirs receive their property. And because the state
has no instructions from the deceased, no charitable gifts will be
made.</p><p>IF YOU HAVE NO WILL:</p><p> If you leave no Will or
your Will is declared invalid because it was improperly prepared or is
not admissible to probate:</p><p>* State law determines who gets assets, not you</p><p>* Additional expenses will be incurred and extra work will be required to qualify an administrator</p><p>* Judge determines who gets custody of your children</p><p>* Possible additional State inheritance taxes and Federal estate taxes</p><p>* If you have no spouse or close relatives the State may take your property</p><p> *
The procedure to distribute assets becomes more complicated-and the
law makes no exceptions for persons in unusual need or for your own
wishes.</p><p>* It may also cause fights and lawsuits within your family</p><p>When
loved ones are grieving and dealing with death, they shouldn’t be
overwhelmed with Financial concerns. Careful estate planning helps take
care of that.</p><p> THE FOLLOWING IS A SAMPLE OF A VARIETY OF CLAUSES AND ITEMS WHICH SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A WILL:</p><p>1ST: DEBTS AND TAXES</p><p>2ND: SPECIFIC BEQUESTS</p><p>3RD: DISPOSITION TO SPOUSE</p><p>4TH: DISPOSITION OF REMAINDER OF ESTATE</p><p>5TH: CREATION OF TRUSTS FOR SPOUSE</p><p>6TH: CREATION OF TRUST FOR CHILDREN</p><p>7TH: OTHER BENEFICIARIES UNDER 21</p><p>8TH: EXECUTORS</p><p>9TH: TRUSTEES</p><p>10TH: GUARDIANS</p><p>11TH: SURETY OR BOND</p><p>12TH: POWERS </p><p>13TH: AFTERBORN CHILDREN</p><p>14TH: PRINCIPAL AND INCOME</p><p>15TH: NO ASSIGNMENT OF BEQUESTS</p><p>16TH: GENDER</p><p>17TH: CONSTRUCTION OF WILL</p><p>18TH: NO CONTEST CLAUSE</p><p>
A Will must not only be prepared within the legal requirements of the
New Jersey Statutes but should also be prepared so it leaves no
questions regarding your intentions.</p><p>WHY PERIODIC REVIEW IS ESSENTIAL</p><p>
Even if you have an existing Will, there are many events that occur
which may necessitate changes in your Will. Some of these are:</p><p>* Marriage, death, birth, divorce or separation affecting either you or anyone named in your Will</p><p>*Significant changes in the value of your total assets or in any particular assets, which you own</p><p>* A change in your domicile</p><p>*
Death or incapacity of a beneficiary, or death, incapacity or change in
residence of a named executor, trustee or guardian of infants, or of
one of the witnesses to the execution of the Will</p><p>*Annual changes in tax law</p><p>MAY I CHANGE MY WILL?</p><p>
Yes. A Will may be modified, added to, or entirely changed at any time
before your death provided you are mentally and physically competent
and desire to change your Will. You should consider revising your Will
whenever there are changes in the size of your estate. For example, when
your children are young, you may think it best to have a trust for them
so they do not come into absolute ownership of property until they are
mature. Beware, if you draw lines through items, erase or write over,
or add notations to the original Will, it can be destroyed as a legal
document. Either a new Will should be legally prepared or a codicil
signed to legally change portions of the Will. </p><p>SAVE MONEY</p><p>
Your estate will be subject to probate whether or not you have a Will
and in most cases, a Will reduces the cost by eliminating the
requirements of a bond. With a well-drawn Will, you may also reduce
death taxes and other expenses. Don’t pinch pennies now to the
detriment of your beneficiaries. We have attempted to briefly explain
in this article some of the issues, techniques, and decisions involved
in Wills, Estate Planning, and Administration of an Estate. Because the
matters covered are complicated and the Federal and New Jersey laws
frequently change, this article can only outline some of the many legal
issues you should consider. </p><p>The proper preparation of a Will should involve a careful analysis of the client’s assets, family and his/her desires. </p><p>
Estate Planning is the process of examining what will happen to your
property when you die and arranging for its distribution in such a
manner as will accomplish your objectives. </p><p> The cost of a
Will depends on the size and the complexity of the estate and the plans
of the person who makes the Will. </p><p> A properly drawn
Simple Will without Trust costs approximately $300.00 to $500.00. It is
one of the most important documents you will ever sign, and may be one
of the best bargains you will ever have.</p><p> Be sure your
Will takes into account the Federal Tax changes and New Jersey
Inheritance Tax changes. Also, ascertain if your Will is
“self-proving”, which would dispense with having to find the Will’s
witnesses after death.</p><p>WHAT IS A WILL?</p><p> “A Will is a
Legal written document which, after your death, directs how your
individually owned property will be distributed, who will be in charge
of your property until it is distributed and who will take care of
your minor children if the other parent should die . You should
remember that the term “property” under the law includes real estate as
well as other possessions and rights to receive money or items of
value.” Everyone who has at least $3,000 in assets should have a
Will. You do not have to be wealthy, married, or near death to do some
serious thinking about your Will.</p><p>ADMINISTRATION OF AN ESTATE</p><p>
If you are named the executor or executrix, you must visit the County
Surrogate to probate the Will. You will need the following items:</p><p> 1. The Death Certificate</p><p> 2. The Original Will</p><p> 3. Names and Addresses of decedent's, next of kin and list of beneficiaries</p><p> 4. Minimum of $130.00 for Surrogate fees</p><p>A
NJ state inheritance tax return must be filed and the tax paid on the
transfer of real or personal property within eight months after death.</p><p>OTHER ITEMS OF CONCERN TO BE PREPARED BY YOUR ATTORNEY</p><p>-Trusts (and Medicare Trusts)</p><p>-Power of Attorney- to allow a trusted person to administer your assets during your lifetime, either upon disability or now</p><p>-Living Wills- to state your wishes concerning medical care in the event of your serious illness</p><p>Kenneth
A. Vercammen is a Middlesex County trial attorney who has published 125
articles in national and New Jersey publications on litigation topics.
He has been selected to lecture to trial lawyers by the American Bar
Association, New Jersey State Bar Association and Middlesex County Bar
Association. </p><p> Call our office to schedule a confidential appointment 732-572-0500</p><p> </p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-21266777798539293832023-08-15T10:46:00.003-04:002023-08-15T10:46:53.826-04:00Who Should Be Your Agent?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="height: 113px; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr valign="top"><td align="center" valign="top"></td><td height="111" width="100%"><table aligcellpadding="0" border="0" cellspacing="10" style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td valign="top"><table aligcellpadding="0" border="0" cellspacing="10" style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td valign="top"><p><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />You may wish to choose a family member to act on your behalf. Many people name their spouses or one or more children. In naming more than one person to act as agent at the same time, be alert to the possibility that all may not be available to act when needed, or they may not agree. The designation of co-agents should indicate whether you wish to have the majority act in the absence of full availability and agreement. You should name a successor agent to address the possibility that the person you name as agent may be unavailable or unable to act when the time comes.</p><p>There are no special qualifications necessary for someone to act as an attorney-in-fact except that the person must not be a minor or otherwise incapacitated. The best choice is someone you trust.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td><td align="center" valign="top"></td></tr></tbody></table>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-12599069817928432992023-05-02T10:27:00.000-04:002023-05-02T10:27:53.077-04:00 Notice and Order – Scientific Reliability of Alcotest 9510 – Appointment of Special Master; Limited Stay of Affected DWI Matters<p> <strong style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Notice and Order – Scientific Reliability of Alcotest 9510 – Appointment of Special Master; Limited Stay of Affected DWI Matters</strong></p><p class="paragraph-spacing-none" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="paragraph-spacing-none" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The Supreme Court granted direct certification in State v. Cunningham, (A-38-22)(087913), to address the use of the new Alcotest 9510, which the State represents is being used as a replacement for the Alcotest 7110 in driving while intoxicated (DWI) cases due to the manufacturer’s discontinuation of the 7110 device.</p><p class="paragraph-spacing-none" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="paragraph-spacing-none" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">By the attached order, the Court imposed a limited stay of affected DWI matters, and appointed Judge Richard J. Geiger, J.A.D., to serve as a Special Master to develop a record, conduct hearings, and make findings and conclusions regarding the scientific reliability of the Alcotest 9510. This appointment is in addition to Judge Geiger’s regular Appellate Division assignment and responsibilities.</p><p class="paragraph-spacing-none" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="paragraph-spacing-none" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The Special Master shall determine the extent of participation of any person or entity in addition to the State and defendant. All such motions for participation in the remand must be served and filed with the Special Master on or before June 20, 2023.</p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-24115675164763623892023-05-02T10:07:00.002-04:002023-05-02T10:07:31.602-04:00GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS<p> </p><style class="WebKit-mso-list-quirks-style">
<!--
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:13.0pt;
font-family:"Geneva",sans-serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
color:black;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:13.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:13.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;
font-family:"Geneva",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Geneva;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Geneva;
color:black;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
/* List Definitions */
@list l0
{mso-list-id:1;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-1 1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1;}
@list l0:level1
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:•;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l0:level2
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l0:level3
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l0:level4
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l0:level5
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l0:level6
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l0:level7
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l0:level8
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l0:level9
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l1
{mso-list-id:2;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-1 101 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1;}
@list l1:level1
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:•;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l1:level2
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l1:level3
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l1:level4
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l1:level5
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l1:level6
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l1:level7
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l1:level8
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l1:level9
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l2
{mso-list-id:3;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-1 201 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1;}
@list l2:level1
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:•;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l2:level2
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l2:level3
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l2:level4
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l2:level5
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l2:level6
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l2:level7
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l2:level8
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l2:level9
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l3
{mso-list-id:4;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-1 301 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1;}
@list l3:level1
{mso-level-number-format:bullet;
mso-level-text:•;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l3:level2
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l3:level3
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l3:level4
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l3:level5
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l3:level6
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l3:level7
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l3:level8
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l3:level9
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l4
{mso-list-id:5;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-1 401 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1;}
@list l4:level1
{mso-level-start-at:2;
mso-level-text:%1;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l4:level2
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l4:level3
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l4:level4
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l4:level5
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l4:level6
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l4:level7
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l4:level8
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l4:level9
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l5
{mso-list-id:6;
mso-list-type:hybrid;
mso-list-template-ids:-1 501 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1;}
@list l5:level1
{mso-level-start-at:26;
mso-level-text:%1;
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
text-indent:-.25in;}
@list l5:level2
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l5:level3
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l5:level4
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l5:level5
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l5:level6
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l5:level7
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l5:level8
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
@list l5:level9
{mso-level-start-at:0;
mso-level-text:"";
mso-level-tab-stop:none;
mso-level-number-position:left;
margin-left:0in;
text-indent:0in;}
-->
</style><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; color: black; margin-left: -8.4pt;"><tbody><tr><td style="background-color: black; border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 767pt;" width="1023"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: white;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: white; border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-width: 1pt; border-style: none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 767pt;" width="1023"><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">source <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><a href="https://www.njcourts.gov/sites/default/files/forms/12756_gdnshp_crt-app_atty.pdf"><b><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none;">https://www.njcourts.gov/sites/default/files/forms/12756_gdnshp_crt-app_atty.pdf</span></b></a><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #141921;">Approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey Prepared by the Judiciary-Surrogates Liaison Committee</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #141921;">Contents</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">INTRODUCTION </span></b><b><span style="color: windowtext;">4 </span></b><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">OVERVIEW </span></b><b><span style="color: windowtext;">5</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">STANDARD PROCEDURES FOR REPRESENTING AN AIP </span></b><b><span style="color: windowtext;">6-7</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Obtain Background Information <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Interview the AIP <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Interview the Proposed Guardian <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Review Background Screening Results <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Identify Assets <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Identify Advance Planning Documents <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Draft and File Report <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">File Application for Attorney’s Fees <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Appear at the Hearing <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">POTENTIAL ISSUES UNIQUE TO GUARDIANSHIP PROCEEDINGS </span></b><b><span style="color: windowtext;">8-9</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Maintaining an Attorney-Client Relationship with the AIP <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Guardianships Involving the Division of Developmental Disabilities <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Temporary Pendente Lite Guardianships <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Contesting the Guardianship • Incapacity • Choice of Guardian or Care Plan <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Guardian Ad Litem <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Consent Orders and Settlement <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Subsequent Proceedings in Existing Guardianships <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Ending Representation: Fees and Discharge </span></b><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">ETHICAL ISSUES IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS </span></b><b><span style="color: windowtext;">10 <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Acceptance of Appointment and Representation of an Alleged Incapacitated Person <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Inability to Represent Alleged Incapacitated Person <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 14.65pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Appointment as Guardian </span></b><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">APPENDIX A </span></b><b><span style="color: windowtext;">11 <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">3</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">NEW JERSEY COURTS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">| www.njcourts.gov<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">4</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">Introduction</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Pursuant to </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">3B:1-2, an “incapacitated individual” is an individual who is impaired by reason of mental illness or intellectual disability to the extent that the individual lacks sufficient capacity to self-govern and manage their own affairs. The term is also used to designate an individual who is impaired by reason of physical illness or disability, chronic use of drugs, chronic alcoholism, or other cause (except minority) to the extent that the individual lacks sufficient capacity to govern themselves and manage their affairs.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Rule </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-4(a)(7) requires the court to appoint legal counsel to represent persons alleged to be incapacitated if they are not already represented by counsel. Your role as court-appointed attorney is critical for the protection of the most vulnerable citizens in our society. In representing an alleged incapacitated person (“AIP”), you are helping to provide fair and equal treatment for those who cannot protect themselves. These guidelines are intended to assist a court-appointed attorney<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">in fulfilling the requirements of the Rules of Court in the representation of an AIP.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">Overview</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">After a guardianship complaint is filed, the court enters an Order for Hearing setting forth a hearing date and appointing counsel for the AIP. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-4(b) outlines the duties of counsel appointed to represent an AIP:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 16pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: windowtext;">personally interview the AIP; <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 16pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">•<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: windowtext;">make inquiry of persons having knowledge of the AIP’s circumstances, physical and mental state and property; <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">• make reasonable inquiry to locate any will, powers of attorney, or health care directives previously executed by the AIP or to discover any interests the AIP may have as beneficiary of a will or trust.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">A written report of findings and recommendations, in such form and including all such provisions as promulgated by the Administrative Director of the Courts except to the extent that the court explicitly directs otherwise, must be filed with the court at least 10 days before the guardianship hearing. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-4(b)(2) specifies<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">the contents of the report, including the following: • the information developed by counsel’s inquiry; • recommendations concerning the court’s determination on the issue of incapacity; • any recommendations concerning the suitability of less restrictive alternatives such as a conservatorship, or a delineation of those areas of decision making that the AIP may be capable of exercising; • whether a case plan for the AIP should thereafter be submitted to the court; • whether the AIP has expressed dispositional preferences and, if so, counsel shall argue for their inclusion in the judgment of the court; and • recommendations concerning whether good cause exists for the court to order that any power of attorney, health care directive, or revocable trust created by the AIP be revoked or the authority of the person or persons acting thereunder be modified or restricted.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">source <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><a href="https://www.njcourts.gov/sites/default/files/forms/12756_gdnshp_crt-app_atty.pdf"><b><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none;">https://www.njcourts.gov/sites/default/files/forms/12756_gdnshp_crt-app_atty.pdf</span></b></a><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">NEW JERSEY COURTS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">| www.njcourts.gov<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">Standard Procedures for Representing an AIP</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">The following is a general guideline for how to approach your role as court-appointed attorney. The particular facts and circumstances of a case will dictate what is needed from you.</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">OBTAIN BACKGROUND INFORMATION</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">You will need to obtain copies of the complaint, Order for Hearing, physicians’ affidavits, Certification of Assets, and any other pleadings. Many guardianship plaintiffs are self-represented. Contact the Surrogate’s Office for the case file if the pleadings cannot be obtained from a self-represented plaintiff. If the plaintiff is represented by counsel, call the plaintiff’s attorney to obtain the pleadings and any other background information. In addition, confirm that the AIP was personally served with a copy of the order, complaint, supporting affidavits, and notice of right to oppose the action and demand a trial by jury as required by </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86- 4(a)(2) and (5).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">INTERVIEW THE AIP</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">You must personally interview the AIP in order to observe and report on their condition. Attempt to converse with your client. Examine available medical records. Speak with caregivers and other persons familiar with the AIP’s physical and mental state and property. Inquire into the physician’s opinions about the functional abilities of the AIP.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">INTERVIEW THE PROPOSED GUARDIAN</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">If possible, interview the person who seeks to be appointed the guardian. Attempt to elicit the intentions of the proposed guardian for the future care of the AIP, as well as the proposed guardian’s qualifications to be guardian. It is also prudent to discuss the potential bonding and reporting requirements to ensure that the person seeking guardianship appointment is capable </span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">6</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">of qualifying for a surety bond and is willing to assume responsibility for periodic reporting.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">REVIEW BACKGROUND SCREENING RESULTS</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In some guardianships, the court will provide the results of the proposed guardian’s background screening obtained pursuant to the New Jersey Judiciary Background Screening Policy for Proposed Guardians of Incapacitated Adults. This information must be incorporated into your report. After reviewing the results, return the records to the court for destruction in accordance with the policy and local procedures.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">IDENTIFY ASSETS</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Make reasonable inquiry concerning the extent of the AIP’s assets. Your inquiry should include whether the AIP has any property interests as a beneficiary of a last will and testament, special needs trust, or other trust instrument. Identify any assets that are not mentioned in the plaintiff’s pleadings. If questions arise about<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">the prior handling of those assets, bring them to the attention of the court in your report.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Many AIPs have limited assets and no income other than Social Security benefits. In those cases, your report should identify the AIP’s Social Security representative payee, and the representative payee’s relationship to the AIP.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">IDENTIFY ADVANCE PLANNING DOCUMENTS</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Advance planning documents executed prior to the AIP’s incapacity may supply insight into the AIP’s medical and financial condition and preferences. These may include:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">• Power of attorney • Last Will and Testament • Inter vivos trust • Advance directive for healthcare<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Determine whether your client has advance planning documents. If so, identify any individuals in possession of the documents. Obtain copies of the documents, review them and report on their contents to the court. In particular, note individuals designated as attorney- in-fact or health care proxy, and whether they have ever exercised those powers. If a testamentary designation of guardian was made, note this as well.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">DRAFT AND FILE REPORT</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">A form Report of Court-Appointed Counsel for the Alleged Incapacitated Person is provided at Appendix A. For the fillable Microsoft Word version of this form, go to www.njcourts.gov and search for “Report of Court- Appointed Counsel” (CN 12789). Except to the extent that the court explicitly directs otherwise, this form must be used to draft the report in compliance with </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-4(b) (2). Its provisions may be supplemented or amended as needed, based on the facts and circumstances of the case.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">File the written report with the court at least 10 days prior to the date of guardianship hearing. Serve a copy of the report on the plaintiff’s attorney and any other party who has appeared in the matter.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">FILE APPLICATION FOR ATTORNEY’S FEES</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Prior to the hearing, file and serve on interested parties an application for payment of attorney’s fees and expenses, supported by an affidavit or certification of services.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">APPEAR AT THE HEARING</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">On the date of the hearing, appear in court to represent the AIP. Although counsel must appear at the hearing, </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-5(c) allows the AIP’s appearance to be waived if the plaintiff and court-appointed attorney certify that the AIP is unable to appear because of physical or mental incapacity. In addition, </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-6(a) allows the court – with your consent – to dispense with the oral testimony of a person who has filed an affidavit or certification pursuant to </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-2(b) at the hearing and to instead rely on their submitted affidavits or certifications. Be prepared to place an oral summary of your findings and conclusions on the record.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">The person challenging the AIP’s capacity bears the burden of proving such incapacity by clear and convincing evidence. See </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">In re M.R., </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">135 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">155, 168-69 (1994). The plaintiff must establish that the AIP is unfit and unable to govern themselves and to manage their affairs in a particular area or as to all areas. The plaintiff should also establish that no less restrictive form of intervention is reasonable that is consistent with the AIP’s welfare and safety. Additionally, the plaintiff should also present evidence that the proposed guardian is a fit and proper person to be appointed and that they are capable of carrying out the responsibilities of a guardian. If appropriate, be prepared to cross-examine the plaintiff’s witnesses.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Finally, if the AIP possesses assets, request that the court consider your fee request and provide for the payment of attorney’s fees in the judgment. Under </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-5(e), the compensation of the court-appointed counsel for the AIP may be fixed by the court to be paid out of the estate of the AIP, or in such other manner as the court shall direct. In matters where funds are not available, the court- appointed attorney may be appointed to serve pro bono with the appreciation of the court.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">7</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">NEW JERSEY COURTS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">| www.njcourts.gov<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">Potential Issues Unique to Guardianship Proceedings</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">MAINTAINING AN ATTORNEY-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP WITH THE AIP </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">A court-appointed attorney must be aware of the obligations and responsibilities inherent in the legal representation of an AIP. The court-appointed attorney acts as an advocate for the interests of the AIP and takes an active part in the proceedings. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Matter of Mason</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">, 305 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. Super. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">120, 127 (Chan. Div. 1997). The Rules of Professional Conduct (“</span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">RPC</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">”) mandate that an attorney representing a disabled person should maintain, as much as possible, a normal attorney-client relationship with that person. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">1.14(a).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Attorneys must be mindful that an adjudication of incapacity need not deprive the incapacitated person of the right to make all decisions. The primary duty of the attorney for an AIP is to protect their client’s rights, including the right to make decisions on specific matters.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Ordinarily, an attorney should abide by the client’s decisions concerning the objectives of representation, and act with reasonable diligence in representing and advocating on behalf of the client. In the context of a guardianship case, this requires you to try to communicate with the AIP, and present the AIP’s opinions and preferences to the court, provided the opinions or preferences are not patently absurd or pose an undue risk of harm. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">In the Matter of M.R., </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">135 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">155 (1994).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">The AIP may retain counsel independently. If the AIP obtains other counsel, such counsel shall notify the court and you at least 10 days prior to the hearing date.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">represent AIPs in proceedings brought under Title 30 for guardianship of the person only.</span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">30:4-165.14 and </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-10(c). If the Public Defender is not available, a private attorney may be appointed pro bono.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">If you are appointed to represent an AIP who is eligible for services from the DDD, your duties and responsibilities as counsel do not change. Typically, there are minimal assets in the guardianship estate, so funding for additional expert witnesses may be limited if needed.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">A temporary </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">pendente lite </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">guardian may be in place while you are representing the AIP. A temporary </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">pendente lite </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">guardian may be requested in the verified complaint in accordance with </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">3B:12-24.1(c) if there is a critical need or risk of substantial harm to the AIP. Appointment of a temporary </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">pendente lite </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">guardian is not an adjudication of incapacity, and does not limit the rights of the AIP, except as specified. The temporary </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">pendente lite </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">guardianship expires after 45 days unless extended for good cause shown. Your investigation should include interviewing the temporary </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">pendente lite </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">guardian to obtain the most current information.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">GUARDIANSHIPS INVOLVING THE DIVISION OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">Individuals that are eligible for services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities (“DDD”) may file a verified complaint for guardianship pursuant to </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">30:4- 165.8 and </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-10 (as opposed to </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-2, which applies to individuals seeking guardianship that are not eligible for DDD services). In these cases, a copy of an Individualized Education Program, a certification from<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">If an AIP opposes an adjudication of incapacity and appointment of a guardian, then you should file an answer – not a report – at least 10 days before the hearing. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-5(d). You may attach affidavits from physicians to the answer, or you may need to petition the court for an independent physical or psychiatric evaluation of the AIP by a medical or mental health professional. You will have to argue that the plaintiff has not met their burden of establishing incapacity by clear and convincing evidence, and that the case should be dismissed.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Note: </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">Interested parties may also contest an adjudication of incapacity and/or appointment of a guardian.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">a director of the DDD, or a certification of a treating professional may be attached to the complaint in lieu of a second affidavit or certification from a physician or psychologist. Unless private counsel is requested,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">the Public Defender should be appointed pro bono to<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">8</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">TEMPORARY PENDENTE LITE GUARDIANSHIPS</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">CONTESTING THE GUARDIANSHIP INCAPACITY</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In many cases, upon investigation, there will be little question of incapacity. Your report should clearly express this conclusion and the facts upon which it is based. However, there are cases in which the issue of incapacity is a close question of fact.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">CHOICE OF GUARDIAN OR CARE PLAN</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Even if incapacity is uncontested, the AIP may want to contest other issues. An AIP often has the ability to understand matters affecting their own well-being, and may express personal opinions and preferences – for example, about the identity of the proposed guardian or where they want to live. Your task is to identify these opinions and preferences and convey them to the court.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In some cases, the interested parties will argue and file petitions seeking to be appointed as guardian. It is your responsibility to interview all of the interested parties and include your findings in your report.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Occasionally, a guardianship application will be filed without identification of a proposed guardian. In this circumstance, inquire as to whether any interested parties are suitable and willing to be appointed guardian. These may include a person acting as the AIP’s attorney-in-fact or health care proxy. If no individual is available and willing to be appointed guardian, determine whether another individual or entity may be<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">relied upon for appointment. These may include a nonprofit organization, volunteer guardian, or public agency. The Office of Public Guardians for Elderly Adults may be appointed if the AIP is over 60 years old. The Bureau of Guardianship Services may be appointed as guardian of the person if the AIP is eligible or receiving services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">GUARDIAN AD LITEM</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">A guardian </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">ad litem </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">(“GAL”) may be appointed at any time prior to entry of judgment where special circumstances come to the attention of the court. Unlike a court-appointed attorney, who has a duty to advocate for the expressed preferences of the AIP, a GAL evaluates the best interest of the AIP and presents that evaluation to the court. If a conflict arises between the preferences of the AIP and their best interests, you should inform the court of the conflict and the possible need for appointment of a GAL. See </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">In the Matter of M.R., </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">135 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">155 (1994); </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">In re C.F.C., </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">2013 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. Super. Unpub. LEXIS </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">1104 (App. Div. 2013); </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">S.T. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">v. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">1515 Broad St., LLC, </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">241 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">257 (2020).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">CONSENT ORDERS AND SETTLEMENT</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">A verified complaint for guardianship and supporting certifications establish a prima facie case of incapacity. As such, the matter cannot be withdrawn absent proof that the AIP has capacity and does not require a guardian. Withdrawal without court order is permitted only if the AIP dies prior to service of the Order for Hearing.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">An AIP cannot consent to an adjudication of incapacity or the appointment of a plenary guardian. See </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">In re Guardianship of Macak, </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">377 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. Super. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">167 (App. Div. 2005). However, certain aspects of a guardianship – such as residential arrangement or care plan – may be resolved through consent subject to<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">court approval.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">SUBSEQUENT PROCEEDINGS IN EXISTING GUARDIANSHIPS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">You may be appointed in a case where a guardianship was already established – either in New Jersey or another jurisdiction. Your role as the court-appointed attorney remains the same, but your inquiry may change depending on the particular facts of your assigned case.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In some cases, the incapacitated person may be in need of a substitute or successor guardian because the originally appointed guardian has been removed or is no longer able or willing to serve as guardian. In addition to evaluating the suitability of the proposed substitute or successor guardian, you should determine whether there are any changes to the capacity, assets, medical and/or residential/care needs of the incapacitated person since the guardianship was first established. In your report, include any other changed circumstances or relationships that should be brought to the court’s attention.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In other cases, a guardian may seek to transfer an out-of-state or – in rare instances – an out-of-country guardianship to New Jersey. The New Jersey Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act, </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">3B:12B-1 et seq., governs such transfers. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">3B:12B-18 outlines the procedure for transferring a guardianship from another state to New Jersey. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">3B:12B-4 states that a court may treat a foreign country as if it were a state of this country for the purpose of applying the act, with certain exceptions. While rare, international transfers can be accomplished with great care. In these instances, it is important to be sensitive to unique circumstances that may exist due to the absence of available guardians in the country from which the guardianship is transferred.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">ENDING REPRESENTATION: FEES AND DISCHARGE</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">A certification requesting attorney’s fees should be filed and served on interested parties prior to the guardianship hearing date. The certification may include fees for services as a temporary </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">pendente lite </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">guardian if you served in that capacity. Under </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86- 5(e), the compensation of the court-appointed counsel for the AIP – as well as the attorney for the party seeking guardianship and the GAL, if any – may be fixed by the court to be paid out of the estate of the AIP, or in such other manner as the court shall direct. In rare circumstances, fees may be allocated against one or more parties. See </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">I.M.O. Sally Dinoia</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">, 2019 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. Super. LEXIS </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">194 (App. Div. Dec. 26, 2019) (affirming payment of attorney fees by county Adult Protective Services to court-appointed counsel). In matters where funds are not available, the court-appointed attorney may be appointed to serve pro bono with the appreciation of the court.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Typically, the judgment will include a paragraph discharging the court-appointed attorney. If the judgment does not discharge you from the case, you will receive copies of all court-issued notices related to the guardianship. These notices may pertain to the guardian’s failure to qualify or comply with periodic<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">reporting requirements.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">9</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">NEW JERSEY COURTS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">| www.njcourts.gov<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">Ethical Issues in Guardianship Matters</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">ACCEPTANCE OF APPOINTMENT AND REPRESENTATION OF AN ALLEGED INCAPACITATED PERSON </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">The court maintains a list of attorneys for appointment in guardianship actions. A court-appointed attorney for an AIP may serve pro bono or be paid, depending on the guardianship estate assets and the complexity of the case. Mentoring by experienced attorneys and training though local bar associations may be available for attorneys interested in guardianship appointments.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">When accepting an appointment in a guardianship matter, representing an AIP in a contested guardianship, recommending that a GAL be appointed, and/or submitting a certification of attorney’s fees, consider the following </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">RPCs</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">• RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">1.1 (Competence); </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">• RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">1.3 (Diligence); </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">• RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">1.5 (Fees); </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">• RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">1.6 (Confidentiality of Information); </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">• RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">1.14 (Client Under a Disability);<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">• RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">3.3 (Candor Toward the Tribunal); • RPC 6.1 (Voluntary Public Interest Legal Service); </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">• RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">6.2 (Accepting Appointments); • Professional obligations of the court-appointed<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">attorney to the client (alleged incapacitated person)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">and court; and • Principles of competence, improvement of the<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">justice system, advancement of the rule of law, and service to the community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">INABILITY TO REPRESENT ALLEGED INCAPACITATED PERSON </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">A court-appointed attorney is obligated to inform the court if they are unable to handle an assigned matter professionally due to lack of expertise and inability to obtain sufficient knowledge to adequately represent their client and are also unable to retain a substitute attorney knowledgeable in the practice area. See </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">I.M.O. Adoption of a Child by C.J.</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">, 463 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. Super. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">254<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">(App. Div. 2020).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">10</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">APPOINTMENT AS GUARDIAN</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In rare cases in which no other individual, organization or public agency is available or willing to serve as guardian for an AIP, the court may request to appoint you as guardian. If you agree to the appointment, the judgment will end your service as court-appointed counsel and begin your role as guardian of the person and/or estate. In some cases, the judgment may set the length of time that you will serve as guardian.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">As guardian, you are entitled to fiduciary commissions on the income and corpus of the guardianship estate under </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">3B:18-24 and </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J.S.A. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">3B:18-25. You may also request court approval for attorney’s fees for any legal work performed. However, you may not charge the guardianship estate for your performance of non-legal guardianship tasks unless expressly authorized in<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">the judgment.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">EXEMPTION FROM MADDEN REQUIREMENTS FOR PRO BONO SERVICES </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">New Jersey attorneys who provide at least 25 hours of services in adult guardianship matters may claim an exemption from the </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Madden v. Delran</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">, 126 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">N.J. </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">591 (1992) pro bono requirement for the subsequent year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">The </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Madden </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">exemption is available to attorneys who are appointed by the court to serve as:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">(i) attorney for an alleged incapacitated person; (ii) Guardian Ad Litem in a guardianship matter; (iii) temporary pendente lite guardian; (iv) permanent guardian of an adjudicated<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">incapacitated person; or (v) special medical guardian.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">An attorney who seeks to claim an exemption from </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Madden </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">requirements based on pro bono services in adult guardianship matters must submit a certification via the Judiciary’s pro bono unit.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: #0010cd;">Appendix A</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Form Report of Court-Appointed Counsel for the Alleged Incapacitated Person</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">For the fillable Microsoft Word version of this form, go to www.njcourts.gov and search for “Report of Court-Appointed Counsel” (CN 12789).</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">11</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">NEW JERSEY COURTS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">| www.njcourts.gov<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Filing Attorney Information:</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Name NJ Attorney ID Number Law Firm/Agency Name Address</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Email Address Telephone Number</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In the Matter of,</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Name of Alleged Incapacitated Person (AIP) an Alleged Incapacitated Person</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">The following represents the report of as court appointed counsel for , an alleged incapacitated person (“AIP”), by way of Order Fixing Hearing Date and Appointing Attorney for Alleged Incapacitated Person dated , and in accordance with </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">R</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">. 4:86-4(b) and other applicable law:</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Information Developed by Counsel’s Inquiry</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">1. I obtained copies of and have reviewed the Verified Complaint, Certifications of Physician or Psychologist, Certification of Assets, Order Fixing Hearing Date and Appointing Attorney for Alleged Incapacitated Person, proposed Judgment of Incapacity and Appointment of Guardian(s) of the </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Person / </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Person and Estate, and background screening results of the proposed guardian(s).</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Personal Interview of the Alleged Incapacitated Person</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">2<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: windowtext;">I met with and personally interviewed the AIP on (date) at (location). </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">List the names and relationships to the AIP of any other individuals present: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">3<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe the physical appearance of the AIP: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">4<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe your observation of the disability of the AIP, and compare/contrast with the content of the Certifications of Physician or </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Psychologist:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">5<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe the mood and affect of the AIP: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">6<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe your explanation of the role of the court-appointed attorney to the AIP, and the AIP’s response: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">7<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe the AIP’s explanation of their daily activities: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">8<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe the AIP’s explanation of their relationships: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">9<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe the AIP’s interactions with any others present: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">10<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe other content of your interview of the AIP: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">11<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">DescribeyourinteractionswithanyotherindividualspresentduringyourinterviewoftheAIP:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">12<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalinformationdevelopedbyyourpersonalinterviewofthe AIP: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">13<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describethecontentandoutcomeofanyfollow-upinterviewsoftheAIP:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 9.5pt;">12 </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">Published 05/05/2021, CN 12789 (Report of Court-Appointed Counsel for the Alleged Incapacitated Person)</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">,</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Superior Court of New Jersey Chancery Division - Probate Part County Docket Number</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Civil Action</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Report of Court-Appointed Counsel for the Alleged Incapacitated Person</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">, an attorney-at-law of the State of New Jersey, who was appointed by the court to serve</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">(</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">Complete </span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">ONE </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">of the questions below, as appropriate</span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">) </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">26. I find that none of the above are appropriate because:</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Inquiry of Persons Having Knowledge of the Alleged Incapacitated Person’s Circumstances, Physical and Mental</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">the AIP lacks capacity in any area </span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">State, and Property</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">the AIP lacks capacity to consent to a conservatorship, durable power of attorney, or advanced directive </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Set forth other reasons why none are appropriate:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">14. In addition, I made inquiry of the following individuals having knowledge of the AIP’s circumstances, physical and mental state, </span><b><span style="position: relative; top: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">OR</span></span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">and property. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">List plantiff(s), prospective guardian(s), interested parties, professionals or service providers involved in the care</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">of the AIP’s person and property, and any others contacted:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">26. I find that the following option(s) should be pursued in lieu of a plenary guardianship: 15. I</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;">metwithandpersonallyinterviewed/</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;">spokewith </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;">inperson/</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;">byphone/videoon(date).</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">a. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">List option(s): </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">a. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe the individual’s relationship to the AIP:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">b. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Provide a delineation of those areas of decision-making that the AIP may be capable of exercising, and explain your </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">b. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe content of your inquiry related to the AIP’s circumstances, physical and mental state, and property</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">:</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">reasoning:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">16. I</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;">metwithandpersonallyinterviewed/</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;">spokewithDr. </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;">inperson/</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;">byphone/videoon(date). c. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Indicate whether the matter should return to court at a scheduled time for review of the guardianship, if instituted:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">a. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe the doctor’s relationship to the AIP, frequency of appointments, etc: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">27. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalrecommendationsconcerninglessrestrictivealternativesor</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">b. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe any change in the AIP’s condition or status: decision-making rights that the AIP may retain:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">17. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe any attempts to make inquiry of additional individuals who were not available or could not otherwise be reached: </span></i><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Dispositional Preferences Expressed by the Alleged Incapacitated Person</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">28. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">State whether the AIP has expressed dispositional preferences. If so, describe such preferences and recommend their inclusion in </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">18. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Add additional paragraphs as necessary, setting forth any additional information developed by your inquiry:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">the Judgment of Incapacity and Appointment of Guardian(s):</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Inquiry as to Will, Powers of Attorney, Health Care Directives, or Interests as Beneficiary of Will or Trust</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">29. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalinformationconcerningtheAIP’sdispositionalpreferences:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">19. I made reasonable inquiry to locate any will, powers of attorney, or health care directives previously executed by the AIP and to</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">discover any interests that the AIP may have as beneficiary of a will or trust.</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Recommendations Concerning Powers of Attorney, Health Care Directives, and/or Revocable Trusts</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">a. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Describe how such inquiry was made and the outcome of the inquiry: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">30. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Set forth any recommendations concerning whether good cause exists for the court to order that any power of attorney, health</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">care directive, or revocable trust created by the AIP be revoked: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">20. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Add additional paragraphs as necessary, setting forth any additional information developed by your inquiry:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">31. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Setforthanyrecommendationsconcerningwhethertheauthorityofthepersonorpersonsactingunderanypowerofattorney,</span></i><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Recommendations Concerning the Court’s Determination on the Issue of Incapacity</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">health care directive, or revocable trust created by the AIP be modified or restricted:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">21. The complaint and supporting certifications assert that the AIP is incapacitated due to (describe the disability of the AIP). My interview and investigation </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">does / </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">does not support this conclusion because:</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">32. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalrecommendationsconcerningtheAIP’spowersofattorney, health care directives, and/or revocable trusts, if any:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">22. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalrecommendationsconcerningthecourt’sdeterminationon the issue of incapacity:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">I hereby certify and say that the statements made by me are true. I am aware that if any are willfully false, I am subject to punishment.</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Recommendations Concerning a Case Plan</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">s/ 23. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">State whether a case plan for the AIP should thereafter be submitted to the court, and the basis for such recommendation:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Dated: 24. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalrecommendationsconcerningacaseplanfortheAIP:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Recommendations Concerning the Suitability of Less Restrictive Alternatives/Areas of Decision-making That the Alleged Incapacitated Person May be Capable of Exercising</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">25. I have specifically considered the following types of arrangement less restrictive than a plenary guardianship (check all that apply):</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Limited guardianship </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Protective arrangement per N.J.S.A. 3B:12-1 </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">et seq</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">. </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"></span><span style="color: windowtext;">Conservatorship </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Durable Power of Attorney </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Advanced Directive for Healthcare </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"></span><span style="color: windowtext;">Advanced Directive for Mental Healthcare </span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;"><span style="color: windowtext;">☐</span></span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Supported Decision-making</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Published 05/05/2021, CN 12789 (Report of Court-Appointed Counsel for the Alleged Incapacitated Person) Published 05/05/2021, CN 12789 (Report of Court-Appointed Counsel for the Alleged Incapacitated Person)</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">13</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Attorney-at-Law of the State of New Jersey</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">NEW JERSEY COURTS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">| www.njcourts.gov </span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">(</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">Complete </span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">ONE </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">of the questions below, as appropriate</span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">)</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">26. I find that none of the above are appropriate because:</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">the AIP lacks capacity in any area</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">the AIP lacks capacity to consent to a conservatorship, durable power of attorney, or advanced directive </span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">(</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">Complete </span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">ONE </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">of the questions below, as appropriate</span><b><span style="color: windowtext;">)</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Set forth other reasons why none are appropriate: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">26. I find that none of the above are appropriate because:</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 3pt;">OR </span></b><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">the AIP lacks capacity in any area</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><span style="color: windowtext;">the AIP lacks capacity to consent to a conservatorship, durable power of attorney, or advanced directive 26. I find that the following option(s) should be pursued in lieu of a plenary guardianship:</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;">☐</span><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Set forth other reasons why none are appropriate: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">a. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">List option(s):</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: -6.5pt;">OR </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;">b. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Provide a delineation of those areas of decision-making that the AIP may be capable of exercising, and explain your</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 13.3pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">26<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: windowtext;">I find</span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">re</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">t</span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">a</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">h</span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">s</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">a</span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">o</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">t</span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">n</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">th</span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">in</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">e</span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">g</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">f</span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">:</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">following option(s) should be pursued in lieu of a plenary guardianship: a. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">List option(s): </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">c. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Indicate whether the matter should return to court at a scheduled time for review of the guardianship, if instituted: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"> b. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Provide a delineation of those areas of decision-making that the AIP may be capable of exercising, and explain your </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 13.3pt; margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: windowtext; mso-bidi-font-family: Geneva; mso-fareast-font-family: Geneva;">27<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Add<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">r</span>a<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">e</span>d<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">a</span>d<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">s</span>i<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">o</span>ti<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">n</span>o<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">i</span>na<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">g</span>l<span style="position: relative; top: 1.5pt;">:</span>paragraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalrecommendationsconcerninglessrestrictivealternativesor</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">decision-making rights that the AIP may retain: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">c. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Indicate whether the matter should return to court at a scheduled time for review of the guardianship, if instituted:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Dispositional Preferences Expressed by the Alleged Incapacitated Person</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">27. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalrecommendationsconcerninglessrestrictivealternativesor</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">28. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">State whether the AIP has expressed dispositional preferences. If so, describe such preferences and recommend their inclusion in</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">decision-making rights that the AIP may retain: the Judgment of Incapacity and Appointment of Guardian(s):</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Dispositional Preferences Expressed by the Alleged Incapacitated Person</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">29. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalinformationconcerningtheAIP’sdispositionalpreferences:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">28. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">State whether the AIP has expressed dispositional preferences. If so, describe such preferences and recommend their inclusion in</span></i><b><span style="color: windowtext;">…Care Directives, and/or Revocable Trusts</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">30. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Set forth any recommendations concerning whether good cause exists for the court to order that any power of attorney, health </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">29. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalinformationconcerningtheAIP’sdispositionalpreferences:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Dated:</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Attorney-at-Law of the State of New Jersey s/</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Attorney-at-Law of the State of New Jersey</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">care directive, or revocable trust created by the AIP be revoked:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">Recommendations Concerning Powers of Attorney, Health Care Directives, and/or Revocable Trusts</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">31. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Setforthanyrecommendationsconcerningwhethertheauthorityofthepersonorpersonsactingunderanypowerofattorney,</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">30. </span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">…</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">care directive, or revocable trust created by the AIP be revoked: </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">32. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalrecommendationsconcerningtheAIP’spowersofattorney,</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">31. </span><i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">…</span></span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">I hereby certify and say that the statements made by me are true. I am aware that if any are willfully false, I am subject to punishment. 32. </span><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Addadditionalparagraphsasnecessary,settingforthanyadditionalrecommendationsconcerningtheAIP’spowersofattorney,</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">health care directives, and/or revocable trusts, if any:</span></i><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">s/</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Dated: I hereby certify and say that the statements made by me are true. I am aware that if any are willfully false, I am subject to punishment.</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">14</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Published 05/05/2021, CN 12789 (Report of Court-Appointed Counsel for the Alleged Incapacitated Person)</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS</span></p><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; color: black; margin-left: -8.4pt;"><tbody><tr><td style="background-color: white; border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 495.8pt;" width="661"><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: black; border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-width: 1pt; border-style: none; padding: 0in 5.4pt; width: 495.8pt;" width="661"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: white;">ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE OF THE COURTS</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: white;">STUART RABNER CHIEF JUSTICE</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: white;">GLENN A. GRANT, J.A.D. ACTING ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR OF THE COURTS</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: white;">JENNIFER M. PEREZ DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF TRIAL COURT SERVICES</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: white;">TAIRONDA E. PHOENIX ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, CIVIL PRACTICE DIVISION</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: white;">KRISTI JASBERG ROBINSON CHIEF, CIVIL PRACTICE LIAISON</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;"><b><span style="color: white;">CN 12756 - MAY 2021</span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-8652394944999322382023-04-08T10:09:00.001-04:002023-04-08T10:09:42.845-04:00 In the Matter of Gordon Court approved guardian and charge of rent here<p> Court approved guardian and charge of rent here</p><p><span face="ProximaNova-Regular" style="background-color: white; font-size: 19px;">Daughter disputed orders appointing her brother as mother's guardian and approving brother's accountings. Mother's husband died in 2014 and mother had a massive stroke months later that left her with severe cognitive and physical deficits. Mother returned to her home with a full-time health aide and in March 2015 mother executed a general POA and a medical POA appointing daughter as mother's agent. the medical POA also provided daughter was to serve as mother's guardian. Mother later signed a living will appointing her two sons as her medical agents and a POA appointing son as her attorney-in-fact. In March 2016 mother was discharged from hospital into daughter's care. Son filed an order to show cause and trial judge found mother had the capacity to participate in her own health care decisions. A later consent order agreed mother would reside with son, The parties' disputes continued and a 2017 guardianship hearing found mother was incapacitated and appointed son as the permanent guardian of her person and property. Daughter disputed what mother was charged for rent and services in the accountings. Court found probate judge acted within his discretion in appointing son as mother's guardian, evidence of mother's wishes supported that decision and there was no need for a guardian ad litem. Probate judge also properly found rent charged to mother's estate was reasonable. source </span><a href="https://www.law.com/njlawjournal/almID/1679687093NJA130920/">https://www.law.com/njlawjournal/almID/1679687093NJA130920/</a></p><div class="page" title="Page 1"><div class="section" style="background-color: white;"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700;">NOT FOR PUBLICATION WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE APPELLATE DIVISION</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt;">This opinion shall not "constitute precedent or be binding upon any court." Although it is posted on the internet, this opinion is binding only on the parties in the case and its use in other cases is limited. R. 1:36-3.</span></p></div></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">IN THE MATTER OF RUTH GORDON, an<br />alleged incapacitated person. ________________________</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY APPELLATE DIVISION<br />DOCKET NO. A-3297-18</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">A-1309-20</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Argued January 12, 2022 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Decided March 24, 2023</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Before Judges Gilson, Gooden Brown and Gummer (Judge Gummer dissenting in part, concurring in part).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On appeal from the Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, Ocean County, Docket No. 218218.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Anat Gordon, appellant, argued the cause pro se.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Yaakov Pollak argued the cause for respondent Eliezer Gordon (Burton Jacobovitch Law Group, LLC, attorneys; Yaakov Pollak, on the brief).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The opinion of the court was delivered by GOODEN BROWN, J.A.D.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">These consolidated appeals arise out of the guardianship of Ruth Gordon, an incapacitated person, and attendant disputes among her adult children</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">—</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">her</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 2"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">daughter, Anat Gordon, and sons, Eliezer and Avi Gordon.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Although the parties do not dispute the court's finding that their mother is incapacitated, in A-3297- 18, Anat, a licensed attorney representing herself, appeals from various orders culminating with the August 30, 2017 order appointing her brother, Eliezer, as Ruth's guardian, and the November 7, 2018 and November 18, 2019 orders approving Eliezer's first and second accountings, respectively, detailing the expenses associated with the guardianship. In A-1309-20, Anat appeals from the November 25, 2020 order approving Eliezer's third annual accounting.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In A-3297-18, Anat raises the following points for our consideration:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">POINT I </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">THE LOWER COURT ERRED IN GRANTING 'SUMMARY' DECISION IN GUARDIANSHIP HEARING SINCE THERE ARE RELEVANT DISPUTES IN FACT REGARDING RUTH'S [POWER OF ATTORNEY], DIRECTIVES AND WISHES BEFORE AND AFTER A MASSIVE STROKE SINCE THERE MUST BE A CLEAR DIRECTIVE BY RUTH TO APPOINT A GUARDIAN AS A MATTER OF LAW; THEREFORE, DISCOVERY AND PLENARY HEARING SHOULD HAVE FOLLOWED. THE STANDARD OF REVIEW ON APPEAL IS TRIAL DE NOVO; HERE SUFFICIENT DISPUTES IN THE FACTS JUSTIFY</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Because the parties share a common surname, we will refer to them by their first names in this opinion for clarity and ease of reference and intend no disrespect. Although Anat Gordon appears alternately in the record as Anat Gordon Applebaum, her professional name is Anat Gordon. Avi Gordon is not participating in this appeal.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page2image1057886464" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/5d1ab0e7-eda0-4131-b49e-b29c85cfa4bf" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">2</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 3"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">REVERSAL WITH DISCOVERY AND PLENARY HEARING ON REMAND.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">POINT II </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">THE COURT MADE PLAIN ERROR IN NOT APPOINTING A GUARDIAN AD LITEM TO ACT IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF . . . RUTH SINCE RUTH'S INCAPACITY WAS UNDISPUTED AND ONLY A GUARDIAN AD LITEM CAN GIVE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR HER BEST INTEREST.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">POINT III </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[THE] COURT MADE PLAIN ERROR IN NOT ACCEPTING ON A SUMMARY DECISION [ANAT'S] EXCEPTIONS TO GUARDIAN ACCOUNTING FOR THE PAST YEAR AND A HALF SINCE RENT CHARGED OF $30,000 OF THE WARD WAS CLEARLY EXCESSIVE FOR BASEMENT LIVING IN HIS HOME AND THERE WAS UNSUBSTANTIATED 'ASSISTED LIVING' CHARGED BY GUARDIAN SINCE VENDORS SUCH AS AIDES, TRANSPORTATION, MEDICAL AND FOOD WERE DISBURSED SEPARATELY FROM HER FUNDS ALTOGETHER $116,000 PER YEAR, AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT FOR BASEMENT LIVING WITH UNLICENSED AIDE; GERIATRIC MANAGER SHOULD BE APPOINTED FOR SAFETY CONCERNS.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">POINT IV </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">ON REMAND THE MATTER SHOULD BE ASSIGNED TO ANOTHER JUDGE SINCE THE TRIAL COURT MADE CONCLUSIONS REGARDING CREDIBILITY AND WAS NOT IMPARTIAL WITH REGARD TO THE REPRIMAND OF ONE SIDE OVER ANOTHER (NOT RAISED BELOW).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">3</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 4"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In A-1309-20, Anat raises the following single point:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">POINT I </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[THE COURT] ON NOVEMBER 9, 2020 HEARING ON THE EXCEPTIONS TO THE 2019- 2020 ACCOUNTING MADE PLAIN ERROR IN RELYING ON STALE AND FRAUDULENT OR FALSE STARMARK APPRAISAL WHICH WAS REQUIRED BY [THE COURT] IN THE PREVIOUS HEARINGS IN 2018 AND 2019 TO JUSTIFY AN[] ILLEGAL 'SELF-ASSISTED LIVING' SALARY OR PROFIT FOR THE SON OF THE WARD WHILE SHE WAS RESIDING IN HIS BASEMENT BEDROOM AND BATHROOM AND COMMON AREA.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Having considered the arguments and applicable law, we affirm. I.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">We glean these facts from the record. Since 2002, Ruth and her husband Isaac lived together in Lakewood, New Jersey. Eliezer and Avi also lived in Lakewood with their respective wives and children, while Anat lived with her family in Edison. In 2002, Ruth executed a General Power of Attorney (POA), which had been prepared by Ruth's long-time attorney, Abraham M. Bielory. The POA appointed Isaac as agent, Eliezer as first alternate agent, and Avi as second alternate agent.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On October 21, 2013, Ruth executed a Living Will (2013 Living Will) appointing Eliezer, and, in the alternative, Anat, as her representative for medical decisions. That same day, Ruth signed a POA appointing Anat, and, in</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">4</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 5"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">the alternative, Eliezer, as her agent (2013 POA). On the same date, Ruth also executed a Last Will and Testament (2013 LWT) bequeathing Anat her piano and jewelry and dividing the remainder of her estate between Anat and Eliezer. The 2013 documents were all prepared by Bielory.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In February 2014, Isaac passed away. Thereafter, on June 4, 2014, Ruth suffered a massive stroke that resulted in severe cognitive deficits, difficulty walking, and paralysis of her left arm. As a result of disputes between Anat and Eliezer regarding the appropriate rehabilitation centers and medications for their mother, on June 25, 2014, Bielory prepared a letter at Eliezer's request in an attempt to clarify the conflict between the parties designated as agents in the 2013 Living Will and the 2013 POA.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The letter stated in pertinent part:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[I]n the Living Will, Ruth . . . specifically asked that her son be named first as he was a Rabbinical authority as to how to act in extreme situations.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">By way of history, [Ruth] was in my office on several occasions both with her late husband and after his demise. At the time, we discussed the Powers of Attorney, Living Will and Will. She had indicated she wanted her son, Eliezer . . . , as the person who was to take charge. This was particularly pronounced by [Ruth] as she resides in Lakewood and had been there for some period of time. It is her son, as she indicated, [who] is the basic source of succor and health care during the course of her residence in Lakewood. There</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">5</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 6"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">is in fact a third sibling that she excluded for personal reasons that she had expressed to me which are beyond the purpose of this letter.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">This letter again is to clarify that Eliezer . . . and Anat . . . are of equal powers under both the Powers of Attorney, and Living Will. However, the reason Anat . . . was included in both documents was by [Ruth] as she did not want to have her daughter feel slighted in any way. However, again I must stress that she was clear in her expression that her son Eliezer . . . was the one in whom she had greater reliance.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">After being hospitalized in an acute care hospital and rehabilitation center ultimately agreed upon by the parties for Ruth's rehabilitation following the stroke, Ruth returned to her Lakewood home on August 15, 2014, with a full- time home health aide. On March 1, 2015, Anat arranged a meeting between Michele Meiner, Esq., and Ruth at Anat's home to execute a general POA and a medical POA prepared by Meiner (the March 1, 2015 POAs). The general POA appointed Anat as Ruth's agent and Eliezer as the alternate, and the medical POA appointed Anat as Ruth's attorney-in-fact, and Eliezer and Avi as alternates. The medical POA also provided that Anat was to "serve as [Ruth's] guardian, special medical guardian, conservator, or in any similar representative capacity."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Shortly thereafter, on March 10, 2015, Ruth met with Bielory and signed a Living Will (the March 10, 2015 Living Will), prepared by Bielory, appointing</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">6</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 7"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Eliezer and Avi as her medical agents to make medical decisions for her. The March 10, 2015 Living Will stated:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">I, RUTH GORDON, being of sound mind, make this statement as a directive to be followed if for any reason I become unable to participate in decisions regarding my medical care.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">I am a woman of the Orthodox Jewish persuasion. Accordingly, there are certain dictates by which I have lived my life and wish to conduct the treatment for any illness that I incur.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">I entrust all decisions to be made by my sons, ELIEZER . . . and AVI . . . to be considered and adhered to, to the greatest extent lawfully allowed as these individuals have earned and retained my complete and utter confidence in all matters inclusive of those concerning my health and well[-]being. They are also observant Orthodox Jews and they will be guided by the tenets of our religion.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">That same day, Ruth signed a POA, also prepared by Bielory, appointing Eliezer as her attorney-in-fact, with Avi as her alternate (the March 10, 2015 POA). The March 10, 2015 POA is not in the record.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On March 12, 2015, Bielory wrote a letter to Anat and Meiner responding to an apparent accusation that he had "misled" Ruth in connection with "the documents she ha[d] signed." In the letter, Bielory reiterated that he had "known the Gordon family for . . . ten to fifteen years," and "ha[d] represented them" since 2002. He stated that in advising Ruth regarding the Living Will and POA,</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">7</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 8"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">he had been acting "in compliance with [her] direction," and had reaffirmed that "she want[ed] the documents as [he had] drafted." According to Bielory, Ruth had indicated to him "that on no occasion" had she "solicit[ed]" Meiner's services but had been "tricked" and "intimidated into signing the documents" prepared by Meiner.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Bielory further explained,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[Ruth] has indicated that due to the fostering, care and concern displayed by her sons living in Lakewood[,] Lakewood has and continues to be her choice[.]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">....</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Accordingly, I again advise you that it is [Ruth's] request that Eliezer . . . and Avi . . . be sole Powers of Attorney and agents under the terms of the Living Will. All these changes have been made at the direction of Ruth . . . who specifically states that she does not want any one, other than these two individuals, to have control. Unfortunately, that reiteration has been necessitated by Anat attempting to isolate her from family, in the day to day care, sustenance and fostering of her life in Lakewood.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In response, in a March 31, 2015 letter, Anat accused Eliezer of using Ruth's assets for Eliezer's financial benefit, demanded that Bielory stop representing Ruth, accused Bielory of ethical violations and exerting undue influence over Ruth, and requested Bielory's file.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">8</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 9"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On March 10, 2016, after a brief hospital stay, Ruth was discharged to Anat's care against medical advice. Ruth had rejected the hospital's recommendation that she be discharged to a facility with skilled nursing care. On March 21, 2016, Eliezer and Avi filed a verified complaint and order to show cause (OTSC) in the Chancery Division, General Equity Part, seeking to validate the March 10, 2015 Living Will and POA, and enjoin Anat from "attempting to exercise any power or authority under any other purported [POA]." The complaint alleged that Anat removed Ruth from the hospital "against medical advice," "deprived [Ruth] of needed medical care," and "interfered with [Eliezer's and Avi's] attempt to communicate with her."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In an affidavit opposing the OTSC, Anat certified that she had been "[her] mother's [a]gent . . . since 2013" pursuant to an "October 21, 2013 . . . [POA]," a "March 1, 2015 . . . [POA]," and a "May 4, 2015 . . . [POA]" wherein "[her] mother [had] signed an updated [POA] in the presence of a witness and a notary, which revoked all prior powers of attorney except for the one she had signed on October 21, 2013[,] and March 1, 2015." In the May 4, 2015 POA that was prepared by Meiner and submitted with Anat's opposing certification, Ruth had executed an identical document to the March 1, 2015 POA previously prepared by Meiner, including a March 2015 date line.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">9</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 10"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Anat further certified that "[t]here [was] no allegation . . . that [Ruth] lacked capacity to sign any of the aforesaid documents," or that Ruth "lack[ed] capacity to select her agents or govern herself." Anat averred that she "did receive a letter dated January 31st purporting to remove [her] as [POA]" but she "did not receive any new [POA] at that point in time" and "did not see the purported March 10th [POA] until [she] read the . . . verified complaint." Anat also indicated that Ruth "wanted to come to [her] home," and that Ruth "ha[d] not been deprived of any needed medical care."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On March 23, 2016, the return date for the OTSC, Eliezer and Avi both testified that since Ruth's discharge from the hospital, they had been denied telephonic and in-person access to Ruth. They requested authority to have their mother evaluated by an independent medical expert to assess her health. Following the hearing, the judge denied Eliezer's and Avi's emergent application for temporary restraints. The judge found that Ruth had the requisite capacity "to participate in her own health care decisions" and there had been no contrary allegation. The judge noted that if the hospital had believed that Ruth did not have the capacity to make her own medical decision, it would have sought the appointment of a guardian before discharging her against medical advice.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">10</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 11"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Further, the judge pointed out that temporary restraints were not appropriate given the "series of . . . powers of attorney as well as medical directives, which have been executed [ad] seriatim" and the dispute regarding "[t]he legal effect . . . of the[] various documents." Instead, the judge ordered "expedited discovery" to resolve the disputes. To that end, the judge allowed Eliezer and Avi "to retain medical experts at their own expense for the purpose of . . . examining [Ruth] to determine her medical well-being as well as her mental capacity." The judge also ordered Anat to give her brothers "reasonable access" to their mother, "unlimited phone contact between 9:00 in the morning and 9:00 at night," and "unrestricted physical access" "at any time, day or night."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On April 14, 2016, Eliezer and Avi amended their OTSC, seeking to restrain Anat from traveling with Ruth over the Passover holiday. After reviewing medical records submitted by the parties, the judge denied the application. The judge again found "[n]o indication" that Ruth lacked the capacity to make her own decisions and "no indication that it would be unsafe for her" to travel.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On August 22, 2016, Anat filed an OTSC. Anat's OTSC is not in the record. On August 29, 2016, the parties appeared again before the judge and agreed to a consent order (the August consent order) which provided that: (i)</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">11</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 12"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Ruth would reside with Eliezer and Avi, but Anat would be permitted "unlimited [and] unrestricted reasonable access" to visit and speak with Ruth on the telephone; (ii) Anat could take her mother for visits, provided Ruth was returned "at the conclusion of such visits"; (iii) any party could arrange "at their own expense to have Ruth . . . examined to determine her mental capacity and . . . underlying medical conditions"; and (iv) the brothers were to provide to Anat "statements of any and all [of Ruth's] financial accounts . . . over which they have any custody or control," "the names, contact information [and] credentials of [Ruth's] caretakers," and "a list of [Ruth's] current medications."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Despite the August consent order, the parties continued to litigate various disputes concerning their mother. On September 30, 2016, Anat filed another OTSC seeking emergent restraints based on her claim that her brothers had violated the August consent order by refusing to give her unlimited access to Ruth to allow her to spend the religious holidays with Ruth. The judge denied the application, reiterating that the parties had provided no proof that Ruth could not make her own decisions. The judge explained that unlimited access did not require Ruth to go where she did not want to go. On October 27, 2016, the return date of the OTSC, Anat continued to argue that her brothers had violated the August consent order by, among other things, limiting her access to Ruth. After</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">12</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 13"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">recounting the "substantial" history in the case and emphasizing the absence of any competency evaluation, the judge ordered Anat to "make[] an appointment with a physician for the purpose of determining [Ruth's] competency." The judge also directed the brothers to refrain from participating in the visitation between Anat and Ruth, whether in person or by telephone, and precluded Anat from having any overnight visits with Ruth unless Ruth indicated otherwise.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">As a result of the October 27, 2016 order, in November 2016, two doctors separately examined Ruth and opined that Ruth was mentally incompetent and unable to manage herself and her affairs based on several factors, including the cognitive deficits caused by the 2014 stroke and the results of a Folstein Mini- Mental Status examination. Relying on the doctors' opinions, Anat moved for reconsideration of the October 27, 2016 order, arguing that the medical examinations demonstrated Ruth's inability to make medical, legal, financial, or residential decisions. Anat also filed a motion to enforce litigant's rights, asserting her brothers continued to violate the October 27, 2016 order, which enforced the terms of the August consent order. By that time, Ruth was residing with Eliezer in Lakewood. The brothers opposed Anat's motions and submitted a December 15, 2016 certification prepared by Bielory attesting to the contents of his June 25, 2014 and March 12, 2015 letters. In the certification, Bielory</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">13</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 14"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">reiterated that Ruth preferred to live in Lakewood and wanted her sons "to be sole Powers of Attorney and agents under the terms of the [2015] Living Will." On December 16, 2016, following oral argument, the judge denied Anat's motion for reconsideration. The judge explained that "there[ was] still no application before the [p]robate court" seeking a determination of incapacity, and he could not deem Ruth "incompetent based on the[] doctors' certifications without a determination by the [probate] court." As to the enforcement motion, the brothers agreed to provide Anat with Ruth's financial records as well as the names and qualifications of Ruth's caregivers in accordance with the August consent order. Further, Anat was allowed to visit Ruth at Eliezer's home "as often as she wishe[d]" and was allowed to have "overnight visits" with Ruth "as long as . . . all parties agree[d]." In all other respects, the October 27, 2016 order</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">"remain[ed] in full force and effect."<br />On December 21, 2016, Anat filed a verified complaint in the Probate Part</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">of the Chancery Division, seeking adjudication of Ruth's incapacity and appointment as Ruth's guardian pursuant to N.J.S.A. 3B:12-24.1 and Rules 4:86- 1 to -8. The complaint also sought a judgment "[r]evoking any and all Powers of Attorney signed by Ruth . . . after her [2014] stroke" and "[r]evoking any and all healthcare proxy designations executed by Ruth . . . naming Eliezer . . . [as]</span></p></div></div><img alt="page14image2007667472" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e6734027-a5ea-4896-98aa-770fd23a1a2d" width="33.480000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">14</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 15"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">her healthcare agent." In a January 3, 2017 order, the probate judge scheduled a guardianship hearing for February 14, 2017, and appointed Adam Pfeffer, Esq. to represent Ruth and make recommendations to the court at the hearing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">At the February 14, 2017 hearing, the judge was informed that neither Eliezer nor Avi had been served with the pleadings as a result of Anat's unsuccessful attempt to withdraw the guardianship complaint following her mother's recent hospitalization. The judge adjourned the hearing and requested Pfeffer to conduct a preliminary assessment and submit recommendations to the court in the interim.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In accordance with this directive, Pfeffer submitted a May 5, 2017 report stating that he had met with Ruth and the siblings; inspected Ruth's living arrangements; acquired Ruth's LWT, Living Will, and POA prepared by Bielory; and reviewed Ruth's financial records as well as the guardianship pleadings. According to Pfeffer, during his visit, "[Ruth] had an aide present who . . . [was] there 24/7." Pfeffer described Ruth's "living quarters" as a "basement apartment in Eliezer's home which included a full kitchen, living area, bedroom and bathroom," with "direct access from the basement to the outside." Pfeffer stated that "based upon [his] personal inspection, the living quarters [were] suitable."</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">15</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 16"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">He added that he was subsequently advised by Eliezer "that a chair lift ha[d] been installed in the home as [Ruth] is currently wheelchair bound."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Pfeffer also spoke to Bielory and obtained a copy of Bielory's December 15, 2016 certification and accompanying June 25, 2014 and March 12, 2015 letters. During their discussion, Bielory had reiterated to Pfeffer that "Ruth . . . wanted Eliezer . . . to be in charge of her general well[-]being and affairs." Additionally, Pfeffer learned that Ruth's financial holdings included her mortgage-free Lakewood home, assessed at $377,200, and bank accounts with an approximate balance of $271,000. "[B]ased upon all the proofs," Pfeffer concluded that "[Ruth] intended to have Eliezer . . . as the Guardian of her affairs" and recommended that Ruth be found incapacitated and "Eliezer . . . be appointed guardian."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In his May 5, 2017 report, Pfeffer had noted that after his initial visit to Eliezer's home, he had again visited Ruth on May 3, 2017, at Care One, a skilled nursing facility in Jackson where she had been sent after being hospitalized. Pfeffer had stated that Ruth seemed comfortable and, for continuity purposes, had been accompanied by the same aide who had assisted her in Eliezer's home. A few days later, on May 8, 2017, the parties appeared before the judge on an emergent application filed by Anat objecting to Ruth's discharge from Care One</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">16</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 17"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">and return to Eliezer's home. Citing safety concerns, Anat sought temporary restraints to remove Ruth from Eliezer's home and return her to Care One or another skilled nursing facility, and the appointment of a "temporary guardian" for Ruth "to evaluate the situation." After hearing oral argument, including representations by Pfeffer consistent with his May 5, 2017 report, the judge found "[no] emergent circumstances present" as required under the governing caselaw and denied Anat's application. The judge pointed out that Anat's concerns would be addressed at the guardianship hearing scheduled for the following week and asked Pfeffer to investigate the concerns in the interim.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On May 15, 2017, the parties appeared again before the judge for the guardianship hearing. Pfeffer represented that at the court's direction, he had again inspected Eliezer's home, reviewed the prior pleadings, examined Bielory's entire file, and attempted to contact Meiner. Pfeffer confirmed that "a chair-lift [had been] installed" in Eliezer's home, and stated that Ruth "had both an aide and a nurse" and "seemed to be doing well." While reviewing Bielory's entire file, Pfeffer had specifically asked Bielory about the March 10, 2015 Living Will and POA and was told that "those documents . . . were in response to [Meiner's] documents that were done while [Ruth] was at Anat['s] . . . house"</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">17</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 18"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">and "in [Anat's] care." Pfeffer said Bielory had insisted that it was Ruth's desire that "Eliezer should be the guardian," as reflected in the March 10, 2015 POA.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Thereafter, Pfeffer had tried to contact Meiner because she was "the only other attorney" who had prepared a POA to dispute the validity of the March 10, 2015 POA. However, despite his efforts, he could not find any current contact information for Meiner in either "the [L]awyer's [D]iary" or "the judiciary website," and was informed by Anat's attorney that Anat "had no contact information for [Meiner]." Based on his supplemental investigation, Pfeffer renewed his recommendation that "Eliezer . . . be appointed as a permanent guardian." Pfeffer added that he had also interviewed Avi, who agreed with the recommendation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">At the hearing, Anat disagreed with Pfeffer's recommendation and maintained that she should be appointed Ruth's "permanent guardian." In the alternative, she requested the appointment of an independent temporary guardian, discovery to "depose . . . Bielory or review" his file to "evaluate what [was] in [Ruth's] best interests," and a plenary hearing to "assess the credibility of . . . Bielory and all the parties before making a finding of fact." In her written submission to the judge prior to the hearing, Anat had also requested the appointment of a "guardian ad litem for Ruth."</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">18</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 19"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">At the conclusion of the hearing, finding "no genuine issue of material fact," the judge determined that "an adjudication of incapacity" was warranted "from a medical standpoint and otherwise." In support, the judge relied on "the two doctors' reports whose opinions remain[ed] uncontroverted." Turning to the selection of the guardian, the judge appointed Eliezer as Ruth's "permanent guardian of the person and property." To support his ruling, the judge relied on the August consent order, Ruth's wishes, Bielory's final POA, and Pfeffer's recommendation.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Regarding the August consent order, the judge explained:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">That consent order, in this [c]ourt's eyes, is relevant for a number of reasons. By inference, it indicates a preference as to residency. If there were issues raised by [Anat] as to her mother's wishes or as to her mother being compromised in terms of her safety and her residency, she clearly had the opportunity to raise any and all such issues before the [c]ourt. She did not do so. In fact, she was represented by one of her various prior attorneys and entered into a consent order thereby recognizing that [Ruth] was, indeed, residing in Lakewood with her son in accordance with her pattern, her conduct and . . . where she had elected to reside for over a decade and a half. That is one of the findings upon which this [c]ourt relies that's uncontroverted. There's no genuine issue of material fact related thereto. It's a consent order entered before the Superior Court with all parties having an opportunity to have been heard, to have retained any and all attorneys of their choosing, and if aggrieved by said order, to have had the opportunity to file any relevant appeal. No appeal</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">19</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 20"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">was filed . . . . The [consent] order continues in full force and effect.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Significantly, in denying Anat's related discovery request, the judge pointed out that Anat had had the opportunity to obtain discovery during the years of litigation but instead chose to sign the consent order agreeing to Ruth's residence.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Regarding Ruth's wishes, the judge stated that Ruth had expressed her preference for the Lakewood community, "not just in words, but by her actions by continuing to elect to live in that community." He added that "[a] sense of community is especially important in terms of interaction[, i]n this case, with her two sons, both of whom also reside in Lakewood Township."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Turning to Pfeffer's report, the judge accepted Pfeffer's recommendation that Eliezer "would be appropriate to serve as [Ruth's] permanent guardian." In that regard, the judge explained that Pfeffer had communicated with Ruth, reviewed the doctors' reports, and digested "all the overall facts" and "circumstances involving her residence, . . . her desires, [and her] wishes."</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Regarding Bielory's final POA, the judge elaborated:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Additionally, the [c]ourt has before it, the [POA] prepared by . . . Mr. Bielory. . . . A true and exact copy of same was provided and attached to and incorporated in the certification of the attorney, Mr. Bielory and the [c]ourt does not need to engage in speculation as to the</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">20</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 21"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">course of events, the chain of events and the manner in which they occurred previously. It suffices to say that [Ruth], herself, had a long-time relationship with Mr. Bielory. He states [the] same in his certification, and the fact that he also represented her late husband . . . is also part of a consistent pattern of representation, confidence in an attorney and interaction with that attorney.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The last [POA] document . . . indicates a preference expressed by [Ruth]. Clearly, under the case law, under the statute with respect to guardians, even when an individual might be deemed to be incapacitated[,] to the best extent possible, a court must recognize and adhere to the wishes expressed by that person, as long as those wishes do not compromise or jeopardize the safety of the individual from a number of perspectives.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The judge concluded that there was no need for a temporary guardian, discovery, or a plenary hearing given the evidence in the record. However, the judge acknowledged that "some visitation component" consistent with the prior court orders was appropriate. Thus, the judge incorporated a "visitation arrangement" in the guardianship judgment that "provide[d] the opportunity for [Ruth] to have visitation if requested in an appropriate, reasonable and safe manner." The judge also required "notification . . . on a reasonable basis as to any material changes in [Ruth's] medical circumstances[,] . . . course of treatment . . . and . . . residency."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On August 30, 2017, a conforming judgment of incapacity was entered</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">21</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 22"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">appointing Eliezer as guardian of Ruth's person and estate, setting the bond at $318,000, and requiring the submission of "a formal accounting to the [c]ourt not later than six months after . . . appointment and . . . accountings on an annual basis thereafter." Notwithstanding the entry of the judgment, motion practice continued between the parties.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">At Eliezer's request, on January 3, 2018, Samuel Levi of Starmark Appraisals provided a market analysis of the residence and services Eliezer provided to Ruth. The appraisal reported that Ruth resided in a 1,400-square- foot basement apartment in Eliezer's home. The basement apartment "include[d] a main living area, bedroom, kitchen area and a full bathroom." The "main living area" on the "[first] floor of the home" was "handicap accessible" to Ruth via a chair lift, and a room on the first floor was designated "as a daytime sleep area" for Ruth. In addition, the appraisal stated that Eliezer provided Ruth with "meals, assistance with bathing, grooming, housekeeping, dressing, personal hygiene, laundry and mobility assistance as well as social activities, with the requisite care and supervision."</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The appraisal continued:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">It is clear that what [Eliezer is] providing goes well beyond the realm of just a place to live, but includes much of[,] if not most of what typically [is] included in [an] assisted living facility. As such, an</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">22</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 23"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">estimate of the potential fair market rents would need to incorporate these amenities and services, and I have analyzed several assisted living facilities in the immediate area. I have considered the various similarities and dissimilarities, and it is my opinion that the living area and services provided, as compared to assisted living facilities, would have a potential rent of $2,500 per month.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On August 7, 2018, Eliezer filed a verified complaint for settlement of the first formal accounting for Ruth's expenses for the period August 30, 2017, through February 28, 2018 (the first accounting). Included in the first accounting was a fee of $2,500 per month in rent, totaling $15,000, listed in the accounting as "E. Gordon</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Assisted Living." Eliezer submitted the Starmark appraisal in support. Anat filed exceptions to the first accounting, arguing among other things that Eliezer was "double billing" by charging excessive rent and also submitting separate expenses for services Ruth received.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In an order entered on November 7, 2018, a second probate judge approved the first accounting for the reasons stated on the record when the parties appeared for oral argument on November 5, 2018. In her oral opinion, after reviewing the Starmark appraisal upon which the $2,500 monthly rent was based, the judge rejected Anat's objection and found that the figure was "a fair and reasonable assessment." The judge noted that "[q]uite frankly, if this ward was in assisted living, she would be paying a whole lot more than that." The</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">23</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 24"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">judge was also satisfied that she was "provided with a reasonable explanation as to how th[e figure] was calculated" and denied Anat's request for further discovery. According to the judge, it was proper to include in the calculation a portion of the "utilities," "maintenance fees," "taxes," and "mortgage" payment on the home.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">To support her decision, the judge also referred to Pfeffer's May 5, 2017 report prepared at the first probate judge's direction. In the report, in assessing Ruth's basement apartment as suitable, Pfeffer had explained to the court:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[I]n Lakewood Township, finished basements are the "norm" and construction is done in a way so as to have the basement utilized just as if they were on the main floor. . . . I ask the [c]ourt to "ignore" any negative connotation that a basement residence may bring to mind as I can tell you, based upon my personal inspection, the living quarters are suitable.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On December 10, 2018, Anat moved for reconsideration of the November 7, 2018 order. In support, she provided an appraisal by Gizzi Appraisals, which assessed the rental value of Ruth's living space at $975 per month. On February 4, 2019, the judge denied the motion, again rejecting Anat's argument that the rental expense of $2,500 per month was excessive. The judge again found the figure "fair and reasonable given the explanation and the evidence that was presented," and determined that Anat had failed to meet the standard for</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">24</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 25"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">reconsideration. Nonetheless, substantively, the judge reviewed and rejected the Gizzi appraisal "because it did not account for the services and the amenities" Ruth enjoyed in Eliezer's home, but instead accounted only for the rental value of the space she occupied. Moreover, according to the judge, because the conclusion was formed "without even inspecting or entering the premises," the Gizzi appraisal constituted an "inadmissible net opinion."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In Eliezer's opposition to Anat's reconsideration motion, he had requested restraints and sanctions against Anat to stop her harassing litigation. Although the judge denied Eliezer's request, she noted that "the guardian's fees continue[d] to mount because of [Anat's] vexatious litigation." The judge pointed out that "[m]any of [Anat's] motions lack[ed] merit, others [were] repetitive, having already been decided by th[e c]ourt, and that's not to mention the numerous . . . motions in the Appellate Division which have been denied." The judge acknowledged that while "there[ was] quite a lot of merit to [Eliezer's] application," she "hesitate[d] to grant such extraordinary relief," but warned Anat to stop her harassing behavior. The judge entered a memorializing order on February 13, 2019.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">A few months later, Eliezer submitted to the court for approval an accounting for the period March 1, 2018, to February 28, 2019 (the second</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">25</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 26"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">accounting). In response, Anat filed the same objections the court had previously addressed and rejected as without merit. On November 18, 2019, the judge approved the second accounting, noting the "tortured history" of the case and that Anat's objections had already been "addressed in prior orders."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Thereafter, on November 9, 2020, the parties appeared before a third probate judge for approval of Eliezer's third accounting for the period March 1, 2019, to February 28, 2020. Once again, Anat filed objections, primarily disputing the $2,500 monthly rent for Ruth's care at Eliezer's home, which totaled $30,000 for the year. After reviewing the prior proceedings in the case, the judge approved the third accounting. In making her decision, the judge relied on the prior judge's finding that the rent was "fair and reasonable."</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">According to the third judge,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[The prior judge] found that it was based on an appraisal that outlined . . . that it was rent for residency and assisted living services, and that was a market analysis that was performed on January 30[], 2018. . . .</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[The prior judge] noted at the time of that hearing that if, in fact, [Ruth] were in an assisted living facility, . . . those numbers would be exponentially higher. She also found that it was a fair and reasonable estimate, and that she had been provided a reasonable explanation for the expenses.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">There was a motion for reconsideration that was heard by [the prior judge] . . . that resulted in</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">26</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 27"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">a[n] . . . order where she reiterated her findings, even in the face of a subsequent appraisal that was submitted by [Anat] that came in at a substantially less figure. [The prior judge] essentially rejected that market analysis. She gave clear and cogent reasons on the record.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The third judge entered a memorializing order on November 25, 2020, and these appeals followed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">II.<br />We begin by addressing the arguments raised in A-3297-18. Anat first</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">challenges the appointment of Eliezer as guardian, arguing the court erred by not permitting discovery and conducting a plenary hearing. Anat asserts "the court should have allowed discovery . . . since there were no findings as a matter of law that Ruth chose Eliezer . . . as her primary caretaker."</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">2</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The State's authority to appoint a guardian for an incapacitated person is "derive[d] from the inherent equitable authority of the sovereign to protect those persons within the state who cannot protect themselves because of an innate</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">2 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In line with this argument, Anat also argues the court erred in not determining Eliezer's fitness and character to be appointed guardian, citing instances of Eliezer's aggression. However, because Anat never raised this issue in any prior court proceeding, we decline to address it. "[O]ur appellate courts will decline to consider questions or issues not properly presented to the trial court when an opportunity for such a presentation is available." J.K. v. N.J. State Parole Bd., 247 N.J. 120, 138 n.6 (2021) (quoting State v. Robinson, 200 N.J. 1, 20 (2009)).</span></p></div></div><img alt="page27image2326479840" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/6d3d24be-3804-4361-a737-03b2d5ef7a62" width="144.020000" /> <img alt="page27image2326480144" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/a1892bd6-d67b-40e8-9f51-4bd23bccf3cf" width="167.060000" /> <img alt="page27image2326480448" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e06900d5-88f0-442e-b028-46d29abc8859" width="103.580000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">27</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 28"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">legal disability." In re Grady</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic;">, </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">85 N.J. 235, 259 (1981). "[T]he [S]tate's parens patriae power supports the authority of its courts to allow decisions to be made for an incompetent that serve the incompetent's best interests, even if the person's wishes cannot be clearly established." In re Conroy, 98 N.J. 321, 364- 65 (1985).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">An action for guardianship of an alleged incapacitated individual is governed by statute and court rule. N.J.S.A</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic;">. </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">3B:12-24 to -29; R</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-size: 14pt; font-style: italic;">. </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">4:86-1 to -12. A guardianship complaint should include affidavits from two physicians who examined the alleged incapacitated individual setting forth opinions as to whether the person can govern himself or herself and manage his or her affairs. R. 4:86-2(b)(2). Notice of the guardianship hearing should be given to the alleged incapacitated person, individuals named by that person in a POA or health care directive, and the person's children. R. 4:86-4(a)(2).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">"If the alleged incapacitated person is not represented by counsel," the court shall appoint counsel for the alleged incapacitated person, R. 4:86-4(a)(8), to serve as "an independent legal advocate for the alleged incapacitated person." In re Guardianship of Macak, 377 N.J. Super. 167, 176 n.3 (App. Div. 2005). Appointed counsel should "interview the alleged incapacitated person," as well as people who are knowledgeable about the person's circumstances, and "make</span></p></div></div><img alt="page28image1301074512" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b3157d7c-f67b-465f-8f29-7853d4edb45b" width="68.304000" /> <img alt="page28image1301074816" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/53bdc544-7738-433c-88c6-bc2bda2c8a97" width="75.240000" /> <img alt="page28image1301075120" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/3970574c-ec70-4116-8479-deca774a7341" width="174.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">28</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 29"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">reasonable inquiry to locate any will, powers of attorney, or health care directives previously executed." R. 4:86-4(b)(1). The appointed counsel is also required to file a report and make recommendations to the court. R. 4:86- 4(b)(2).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Furthermore, Rule 4:86-6(a) provides:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Unless a trial by jury is demanded by or on behalf of the alleged incapacitated person, or is ordered by the court, the court shall, after taking testimony in open court, determine the issue of incapacity. The court, with the consent of counsel for the alleged incapacitated person, may take the testimony of a person who has filed an affidavit or certification pursuant to [Rule] 4:86-2(b) by telephone or may dispense with oral testimony and rely on the affidavits or certifications submitted.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">A finding of incapacity following a guardianship hearing must be supported "by clear and convincing evidence." S.T. v. 1515 Broad St., LLC, 241 N.J. 257, 281 (2020) (citing In re M.R., 135 N.J. 155, 169 (1994)). After determining whether a guardianship is appropriate, "the court must then appoint an individual to serve as the guardian." Id. at 282 (citing R. 4:86-6(c)). In determining who should be appointed guardian, "the court should consider the recommendations of the court-appointed attorney and the wishes of the incapacitated person, if expressed." Macak, 377 N.J. Super. at 176. If protective proceedings are commenced, the court may consider as guardian an individual</span></p></div></div><img alt="page29image2326843056" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/a6c7d164-612d-4682-a5c2-1b9fec9b1c96" width="37.560000" /> <img alt="page29image2326843360" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/d5d4aa26-23f9-47fe-9650-9059e3264d77" width="173.180000" /> <img alt="page29image2326843664" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/5e9661bd-5c99-4030-b2db-1eeb6310e57d" width="62.784000" /> <img alt="page29image2326843968" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/78c8e3dd-3340-47b6-9f1a-295ab607fed8" width="39.720000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">29</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 30"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">nominated by the principal as her attorney-in-fact. N.J.S.A. 46:2B-8.4(b). Moreover, any information bearing on a person's intent, including a living will, oral directives, a durable POA, or religious beliefs may aid in determining an incapacitated person's wishes. In re Hughes, 259 N.J. Super. 193, 200 (App. Div. 1992); see also Conroy, 98 N.J. at 361 (listing sources from which an incompetent adult's intent may be inferred).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Once a judge determines a person is incapacitated, the judge possesses "broad powers and maintains far-reaching discretion in guardianship appointments." In re Mason, 305 N.J. Super. 120, 128 (Ch. Div. 1997). Nevertheless, the Legislature has identified an order of preference for selection of a guardian commencing with the spouse or domestic partner and proceeding to the incapacitated person's heirs and then friends. N.J.S.A. 3B:12-25. Consideration shall also be given to surrogate decision-makers designated by the incapacitated person while able to do so. Ibid. When the "[t]he proofs before the court [are] documentary, and . . . raise[] a substantial issue of fact, a plenary hearing . . . [is] necessary." In re Est. of Baker, 297 N.J. Super. 203, 207 (App. Div. 1997).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Given a probate judge's broad powers, we review a determination made by that judge for an abuse of discretion. See In re Est. of Hope, 390 N.J. Super.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page30image2327064096" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/d86a416e-38ca-4319-a672-fa4a876eef23" width="78.744000" /> <img alt="page30image2327064400" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b5b63c30-3da2-4620-be74-7decf5b63b86" width="48.624000" /> <img alt="page30image2327064704" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/32c6397a-a3ca-4119-92f0-f570bac4fa00" width="43.800000" /> <img alt="page30image2327065008" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/ccf2001f-7130-4735-aa1b-072ba610f9ca" width="78.624000" /> <img alt="page30image2327065312" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/fdb876b0-fd5a-4801-a04a-f454b93218f8" width="108.500000" /> <img alt="page30image2327065616" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/d038f3b2-ae7a-4c52-b500-1e9dfc1ade51" width="104.640000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">30</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 31"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">533, 541 (App. Div. 2007) ("Remedies available to courts of equity 'are broad and adaptable.'" (quoting In re Mossavi, 334 N.J. Super. 112,121 (Ch. Div. 2000))); see also Wolosoff v. CSI Liquidating Tr., 205 N.J. Super. 349, 360 (App. Div. 1985). "The exercise of . . . discretion will be interfered with by an appellate tribunal only when the action of the trial court constitutes a clear abuse of that discretion." Salitan v. Magnus, 28 N.J. 20, 26 (1958). A trial court decision will only constitute an abuse of discretion where "the 'decision [was] made without a rational explanation, inexplicably departed from established policies, or rested on an impermissible basis.'" United States ex rel. U.S. Dep't of Agric. v. Scurry, 193 N.J. 492, 504 (2008) (alteration in original) (quoting Flagg v. Essex Cnty. Prosecutor, 171 N.J. 561, 571 (2002)).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">If the court appoints a person, consistent with the statute, who has demonstrated that he or she seeks to act in the best interests of the incapacitated person, we will not disturb the guardianship appointment in the absence of the mistaken exercise of the considerable discretion vested in the judge. See In re Queiro, 374 N.J. Super. 299, 311 (App. Div. 2005) (reversing appointment of guardian despite satisfaction of statutory criteria due to application of incorrect legal standard); see also In re Quinlan, 70 N.J. 10, 53, 55 (1976) (discharging court-appointed guardian in favor of incapacitated adult's father where father's</span></p></div></div><img alt="page31image2327305712" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b6025855-ee1b-4db7-9ba8-e8440cf13046" width="85.800000" /> <img alt="page31image2327306016" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/41f90d6a-3025-47c7-9a2a-727a4000d400" width="48.120000" /> <img alt="page31image2327306320" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/7aa100e9-b287-48e1-ad0b-cb483c843d65" width="197.570000" /> <img alt="page31image2327306624" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/540f645d-47de-42fa-a289-d3ca1968c32b" width="110.160000" /> <img alt="page31image2327306928" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b36ae8d6-43c6-45ee-a0fd-9f99e4f8701d" width="185.420000" /> <img alt="page31image2327307232" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/56579c70-32ff-4dfc-800b-3102e79bb111" width="114.480000" /><img alt="page31image2327307536" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/13572b5e-adf5-4cb8-8378-e77d24a7ba9d" width="189.020000" /> <img alt="page31image2327307840" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b595793d-5915-491f-9685-ab0587ec984a" width="40.800000" /> <img alt="page31image2327308272" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e9b4ebd1-883c-4d40-9b0e-c8d32799378b" width="47.424000" /> <img alt="page31image2327308576" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e418a9bb-d57e-4cac-ac8d-60188961e6dc" width="80.280000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">31</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 32"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">"general suitability as guardian" presented "no valid reason to overrule the statutory intendment of preference to the next of kin"). Nonetheless, challenges to legal conclusions as well as a trial judge's interpretation of the law are subject to de novo review. Est. of Hanges v. Metro. Prop. & Cas. Ins. Co., 202 N.J. 369, 382-83 (2010).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Applying these principles, we are satisfied that the first probate judge acted within his discretion in appointing Eliezer as Ruth's guardian. The guardianship proceeding comported with Rule 4:86-6(a), which permits the court to dispense with oral testimony and rely on affidavits or certifications, as occurred here, in determining incapacity. Indeed, Anat does not dispute the incapacity determination, but instead contests the appointment of Eliezer as Ruth's guardian without affording Anat the opportunity to engage in discovery or participate in a plenary hearing to resolve disputed issues. However, Ruth was represented by independent counsel, and the judge's factual findings, including those supporting his appointment of Eliezer instead of Anat, are supported by clear and convincing evidence. In short, notwithstanding the lack of discovery and summary hearing, the judgment of incapacity and Eliezer's appointment as Ruth's guardian comported with the "due process safeguards required by our court rules and statutes." S.T., 241 N.J. at 280-82.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page32image2327538576" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/ee2a375b-0756-4450-994b-fe607c732687" width="269.090000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">32</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 33"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">"In general, we apply an abuse of discretion standard to decisions made by our trial courts relating to matters of discovery." Pomerantz Paper Corp. v. New Cmty. Corp., 207 N.J. 344, 371 (2011). Under that standard, "[w]e generally defer to a trial court's disposition of discovery matters unless the court has abused its discretion or its determination is based on a mistaken understanding of the applicable law." Ibid. (alteration in original) (quoting Rivers v. LSC P'ship, 378 N.J. Super. 68, 80 (App. Div. 2005)). As we have explained:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The public policies underpinning our discovery rules include "expeditious handling of cases, avoiding stale evidence, and providing uniformity, predictability and security in the conduct of litigation." In furtherance of those policies, "[t]he discovery rules were designed to eliminate, as far as possible, concealment and surprise in the trial of law suits to the end that judgments rest upon real merits of the causes and not upon the skill and maneuvering of counsel."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[Mernick v. McCutchen, 442 N.J. Super. 196, 199-200 (App. Div. 2015) (alteration in original) (first quoting Zaccardi v. Becker, 88 N.J. 245, 252 (1982); and then quoting Oliviero v. Porter Hayden Co., 241 N.J. Super. 381, 387 (App. Div. 1990)).]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Here, we see no reason to upset the first probate judge's exercise of discretion in adjudicating the guardianship complaint without allowing Anat to engage in further discovery. The focus of Anat's discovery argument appears to</span></p></div></div><img alt="page33image2327777424" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/aaf9ab2c-7d99-41e4-805f-0529f08d6ead" width="152.540000" /> <img alt="page33image2327777728" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/aba6e3d9-a783-455a-a13a-3c890cf540fe" width="111.000000" /> <img alt="page33image2327778032" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/fb0d65b1-ccd6-41a0-8ab6-75df1039ac5a" width="126.260000" /> <img alt="page33image2327778336" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/65a27dc1-1652-466e-8199-d13c8a7fe21a" width="136.820000" /> <img alt="page33image2327778640" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/73d1c336-1bb0-4fe3-b2eb-9a10b79ad137" width="113.060000" /><img alt="page33image2327778944" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/2f4cd835-a557-4d74-99c8-0e4a1a8ca578" width="177.050000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">33</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 34"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">be directed at obtaining Bielory's file and deposition testimony to assess the conflicting POAs executed in 2013 and 2015. However, despite extensive motion practice and multiple hearings in 2015 and 2016, including the March 23, 2016 order granting expedited discovery to resolve the parties' disputes, Anat never requested a court order for the file's production or Bielory's deposition. Instead, on August 29, 2016, she signed a consent order agreeing to Ruth residing in Eliezer's home. Although the consent order did not address Ruth's incapacity, it resolved the issue of Ruth's residency. Anat acknowledges her agreement to the execution of the consent order but asserts the consent order only addressed a temporary situation. However, nothing in the consent order signified a temporal element, particularly since Ruth had resided in Lakewood for fifteen years and considered the Lakewood community her home.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In addition to the consent order, other evidence supporting the judge's decision to appoint Eliezer as guardian included Ruth's expressed preference to live in Lakewood, Pfeffer's recommendation, and the March 10, 2015 Living Will and POA prepared by Bielory. In the March 10, 2015 Living Will, Ruth made clear her commitment to the tenets of Orthodox Judaism and her trust in Eliezer and Avi to implement her wishes. It was reasonable for the judge to rely on that evidence in appointing Eliezer to serve as Ruth's guardian instead of</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">34</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 35"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Anat. See In re Chandler, 337 N.J. Super. 600, 609 (App. Div. 2001) ("[C]ourts . . . are required to respect the intention expressed by an incapacitated person prior to the onset of incapacity unless the record establishes that a different result is necessary.").</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Anat contends there were "clear inconsistencies between the affidavit[] of . . . Bielory and the [2013] POA signed by Ruth before the stroke." However, the judge did not rely on the 2013 documents but instead relied on the 2015 documents to determine Ruth's wishes. Anat disputes Ruth's capacity to execute the March 10, 2015 documents prepared by Bielory, stressing that the documents were executed after Ruth's stroke. However, Anat's claim is undermined by her own 2016 affidavit attesting to Ruth's capacity to sign the March 1, 2015 documents prepared by Meiner only nine days before Ruth signed the March 10, 2015 documents prepared by Bielory. Anat's attempt to challenge Ruth's capacity to sign the latter documents is also belied by the fact that the hospital allowed Ruth to sign herself out in 2016 against medical advice.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Additionally, Pfeffer's recommendation to the court to appoint Eliezer as Ruth's guardian after conducting a thorough investigation of the facts and circumstances constitutes strong evidence supporting the judge's decision. Among other things, Pfeffer's recommendation was informed by a review of</span></p></div></div><img alt="page35image2328267072" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/fc98a400-b4c1-4eae-a761-38a8bb403b08" width="94.104000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">35</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 36"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Bielory's entire file as well as discussions with Bielory to ascertain Ruth's wishes and the chain of events leading to the execution of the 2013 and 2015 documents prepared by Bielory. Notably, Pfeffer's attempt to interview Meiner to assess the circumstances under which the March 1 and May 4, 2015 POAs were executed was stymied by his inability to obtain Meiner's current contact information even from Anat.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Anat argues that Bielory had a conflict of interest because he had represented Eliezer in other legal matters. However, Bielory never represented any party in this litigation, and even if Bielory had represented Eliezer in other matters, he was Ruth's long-time attorney and had represented both Ruth and her husband over the years. See In re Op. No. 17-2012 of Advisory Comm. on Pro. Ethics, 220 N.J. 468, 477-79 (2014). In any event, given Pfeffer's role as Ruth's independent court-appointed attorney and his recommendation to the court predicated upon a comprehensive investigation, neither further exploration nor a more fulsome hearing was required to justify the decision appointing Eliezer as Ruth's guardian.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">For the first time on appeal, Anat argues Eliezer had no "standing" to be appointed guardian because he did not file a timely answer to the guardianship complaint in compliance with the court rule. Rule 4:86-5(d) provides that "any</span></p></div></div><img alt="page36image2328493968" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/428072c0-a4ad-40df-8337-38b967ed0573" width="272.210000" /> <img alt="page36image2328494272" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/de61cb1e-d7d1-47dd-87f4-f1ab8540bb57" width="65.400000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">36</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 37"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">person receiving notice of [a guardianship] hearing" who "intends to appear by an attorney . . . shall . . . file an answer" at least "ten days before the hearing." Eliezer filed an answer on May 5, 2017, and the hearing occurred ten days later on May 15, 2017. Thus, contrary to Anat's contention, Eliezer complied with the rule's requirements.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Our dissenting colleague would remand for a trial on who, between Eliezer and Anat, should be Ruth's guardian. Eliezer was appointed to be Ruth's guardian on August 30, 2017. At that time, no one disputed that Ruth was incapacitated. The year before, in August 2016, Anat had signed a consent order agreeing that Ruth should live with Eliezer and Avi in Lakewood, Ruth's hometown and chosen residence since 2002. Anat had the opportunity to conduct discovery on Eliezer's suitability to be guardian but did not avail herself of that opportunity. More critically, she could point to no evidence that it was not Ruth's longstanding choice that Eliezer should be her guardian should she become incapacitated. Instead, Anat sought to cross-examine Ruth's attorney, who had consistently averred that Ruth wanted Eliezer to be her guardian.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Anat first appealed the August 30, 2017 order appointing Eliezer as guardian almost two years after it was entered in April 2019. Moreover, Anat's appeal was only filed after the court had approved two years of annual</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">37</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 38"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">accounting while Eliezer was Ruth's guardian. We agree that in certain circumstances, a trial concerning the appointment of a guardian is necessary. Given the procedural history of this case, however, we cannot say that the probate judge abused his discretion in not conducting a trial. In our view, a remand for a trial would only prolong this protracted dispute among siblings and would provide no benefit to Ruth.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">III.<br />Next, Anat argues the court erred by not appointing a guardian ad litem</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">(GAL) to advocate for the best interests of Ruth because Pfeffer was "biased and not a neutral party."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">"At any time prior to entry of judgment, where special circumstances come to the attention of the court by formal motion or otherwise," the court may appoint a GAL, "in addition to counsel, . . . to evaluate the best interests of the alleged incapacitated person." R. 4:86-4(d). For example, "[i]f there is a significant issue as to the appropriate choice of guardian, or as to the underlying issue of incapacity, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to advise the court as to the person's best interests." Macak, 377 N.J. Super. at 176.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Our courts have discussed the difference between a court-appointed attorney and GAL as follows:</span></p></div></div><img alt="page38image2386621088" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/1c2db9a7-f451-4d32-9f80-b3fb1de0b54b" width="39.600000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">38</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 39"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The court-appointed attorney thus acts as an "advocate" for the interests of his client and the GAL acts as the "eyes of the court" to further the "best interests" of the alleged incompetent. Court-appointed counsel is an independent legal advocate for the alleged incompetent and takes an active part in the hearings and proceedings, while the GAL is an independent fact[-]finder and an investigator for the court. The court-appointed attorney, subject to the aforementioned concerns, thus subjectively represents the client's intentions, while the GAL objectively evaluates the best interests of the alleged incompetent.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[Mason, 305 N.J. Super. at 127.]<br />For the first time on appeal, Anat argues that the court should have</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">appointed a GAL because Pfeffer was biased. To support her claim of bias, Anat asserts that Eliezer and Pfeffer both resided in the same small community and knew each other. However, Anat has failed to set forth any credible evidence of bias on the part of Pfeffer, see State v. Copling, 326 N.J. Super. 417, 438 (App. Div. 1999) (explaining that "friendship alone, without more, should not preclude effective representation"), and there is no evidence in the record to support the appointment of a GAL in addition to the court-appointed attorney, see In re M.F., 468 N.J. Super. 197, 213 (App. Div. 2021) (holding appointment of GAL warranted where ward's wishes were "not easily or readily ascertainable" and ward's appointed counsel and legal guardian had "sharply divergent views" as to ward's best interests). Indeed, on this record, the judge</span></p></div></div><img alt="page39image2386879488" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/714602ac-d64b-4b9e-a035-ba72298fb326" width="39.600000" /> <img alt="page39image2386879792" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/3f586c67-81b3-4414-aa89-8495a6ee9543" width="98.184000" /> <img alt="page39image2386880096" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/28da24ee-4e02-48a2-af45-a672f8781205" width="59.160000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">39</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 40"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">had ample evidence to discern what was in Ruth's best interest without the appointment of a GAL.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">IV.<br />Anat also challenges the court's approval of Eliezer's first and second</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">accountings, primarily disputing the finding that $30,000 per year for rent was fair and reasonable. Anat reiterates that consistent with the Gizzi appraisal submitted with her reconsideration motion, Ruth's living area was only worth $975 per month.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Our "review of a judgment entered in a non-jury case regarding findings of a trial court is limited. Our courts have held that the findings upon which a non-jury judgment is based should not be disturbed unless they are so clearly insupportable as to result in their denial of justice." Est. of Ostlund v. Ostlund, 391 N.J. Super. 390, 400 (App. Div. 2007) (citing Rova Farms Resort v. Invs. Ins. Co., 65 N.J. 474, 483 (1974)). However, we review de novo the trial court's interpretation of the law. Manalapan Realty, L.P. v. Twp. Comm. of Manalapan, 140 N.J. 366, 378 (1995).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The role of a guardian of an incapacitated person's estate is largely statutory. In re Guardianship of A.D.L., 208 N.J. Super. 618, 623 (App. Div. 1986); see also In re Keri, 181 N.J. 50, 57 (2004) (explaining that under the</span></p></div></div><img alt="page40image2387093328" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/825173b2-0ca6-4610-8168-234090818855" width="154.220000" /> <img alt="page40image2387093632" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/c2876c13-e455-4146-93cd-21f3e964cbce" width="163.820000" /> <img alt="page40image2387093936" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e710100a-35e7-4d9f-8040-473f5cadeefb" width="45.960000" /> <img alt="page40image2387094240" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/390ce7c5-e38e-49f3-af90-173b9058bd0e" width="314.450000" /><img alt="page40image2387094544" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/4e80c94a-a117-4f06-b7fd-fc34c432468d" width="175.220000" /> <img alt="page40image2387094848" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/9e390a2f-4153-4d10-8d8b-4a69671c09ec" width="48.000000" /> <img alt="page40image2387095152" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/d991cbb6-c125-4f33-8273-24bdc4a5d931" width="60.504000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">40</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 41"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">statutory scheme, guardians are authorized to manage the estates of incompetent persons (citing N.J.S.A. 3B:12-36 to -64)). In managing an incapacitated person's estate, a guardian may</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">expend or distribute so much or all of the income or principal of his ward for the support, maintenance, education, general use and benefit of the ward . . . , in the manner, at the time or times and to the extent that the guardian, in an exercise of a reasonable discretion, deems suitable and proper.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[N.J.S.A. 3B:12-43.]<br />N.J.S.A 3B:17-2 and -3 and Rule 4:86-6(e)(3) direct the guardian of the</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">incapacitated person to file annual financial accountings. A guardian should file a complaint for approval of the accounting, R. 4:87-1, and an interested party may file exceptions, R. 4:87-8. Under N.J.S.A. 3B:17-6, a party who raises objections "may examine the accountant, on oath, concerning the truth and fairness of the account." However, the person objecting has the burden of proof. In re Est. of Perrone, 5 N.J. 514, 521 (1950).</span></p></div></div><img alt="page41image2387285168" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/5ff4c9a4-b01c-49ff-aee7-b90ae27cc501" width="119.400000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">N.J.S.A. 3B:12-2 provides:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The court may authorize, direct or ratify any contract, trust or other transaction relating to the . . . incapacitated person's . . . financial affairs . . . if the court determines that the transaction is in the best interests of the . . . incapacitated person . . . .</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">41</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 42"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The court maintains authority over the estate of an incapacitated person, N.J.S.A. 3B:12-36, and may authorize expenditures for the support, care or benefit of an incapacitated person that are "reasonably necessary," N.J.S.A. 3B:12-45. Clearly, rent is a reasonably necessary cost of providing care for a ward.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Here, the second probate judge found it permissible for the $2,500 monthly rent to include a portion of utilities, taxes, and mortgage payments on the home as well as the value of the significant services Eliezer provided to Ruth. Even if the cost of Ruth's food was minimal as Anat suggests, the judge found that Eliezer provided services to Ruth that were comparable to the services provided in an assisted living facility, but at a much lower cost. Likewise, the judge rejected Anat's contention that the costs were not properly compensable as monthly rent because Eliezer delegated the tasks to aides and other professionals. The judge's determination is supported by competent evidence in the record and is entitled to our deference.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In making the determination that the rent was reasonable, the judge's reliance on the Starmark appraisal was entirely appropriate and we reject Anat's contention that the Gizzi appraisal should have been considered instead. First, Anat did not present the Gizzi appraisal until she had filed her motion for</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">42</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 43"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">reconsideration. Thus, when the judge approved Eliezer's first accounting, she was only presented with the Starmark appraisal. See Cummings v. Bahr, 295 N.J. Super. 374, 384 (App. Div. 1996) (holding denial of reconsideration appropriate when the "factual predicates" of the motion were available but not raised in the initial application). Second, in denying Anat's motion for reconsideration, the judge substantively reviewed and rejected the Gizzi appraisal, finding that it did not take into consideration the amenities Eliezer was providing to Ruth.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Anat argues further that Eliezer's home should not be characterized as an assisted living facility because Section 7.15 of the Health Care Facilities Planning Act, N.J.S.A. 26:2H-1 to -26, provides standards for a residence qualifying as an assisted living facility and Eliezer did not meet those standards. Notwithstanding Eliezer's characterization of his home as a "self-assisted living" facility, we do not interpret his characterization as an attempt to qualify his home as an assisted living facility under the statute. Rather, the term was used to encapsulate the Starmark appraisal's assessment that Eliezer was providing to Ruth more than "just a place to live," but included "most of what typically [is] included in [an] assisted living facility." Accordingly, the $2,500 per month for rent incorporated those "amenities and services" as well as living space.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page43image2387787632" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/11db37b2-0d60-4398-854c-3036663b05f1" width="113.060000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">43</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 44"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">V.<br />In A-1309-20, Anat argues that the third probate judge erred in approving</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">the third accounting because the Starmark appraisal was stale and false. According to Anat, although the Starmark appraisal was dated January 2018, the third accounting was submitted two years later. As the objector, Anat had the burden of proof in challenging the accounting. However, she presented no credible evidence to show that the $2,500 monthly rent was unreasonable, stale, or false. See Perrone, 5 N.J. at 521. Thus, we discern no basis to intervene.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">To the extent any argument raised by Anat has not been explicitly addressed in this opinion, it is because either our disposition makes it unnecessary or the argument lacks sufficient merit to warrant discussion in a written opinion. R. 2:11-3(e)(1)(E).</span></p></div></div><img alt="page44image2387935616" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/9b9a1b4c-cf49-40bb-b7d7-c93e1db32e97" width="45.624000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Affirmed.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page44image2387937472" height="66.600000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/18ded19c-945c-4171-970a-79ee811ac998" width="124.800000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">44</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 45"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">___________________________</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: 700;">GUMMER, J.A.D., dissenting in part and concurring in part.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Today, my colleagues affirm a judgment issued in a contested litigation in which the "trial" court denied plaintiff's request to take limited discovery, denied plaintiff's request to take testimony from a key witness, and refused to conduct a trial on the contested issues. I respectfully dissent from the affirmance of paragraph 2 of the August 30, 2017 judgment appointing a guardian. I otherwise concur.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The contested litigation at issue is a guardianship action. Although this case was not the first lawsuit filed by the parties, it is the only lawsuit filed regarding the incapacity of and appointment of a guardian for Ruth Gordon.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The rights involved in a guardianship case go to the heart of what makes us "free and independent" beings. N.J. Const., art. I, ¶ 1. "The right of individuals to determine their unique destiny through the decisions they make </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">to govern and manage their own affairs </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">is an implicit guarantee of the New Jersey Constitution . . . ." S.T. v. 1515 Broad St., LLC, 241 N.J. 257, 274 (2020).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The importance of the court's role in guardianship cases </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">determining whether a person has capacity and, if incapacitated, who shall be entrusted with</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Consistent with the majority opinion, I will refer to the parties by their first names.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page45image2388146960" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/8bc855a8-4481-418d-956f-8440f2d0b9e9" width="66.360000" /> <img alt="page45image2388147264" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/46f9b321-e8b5-47f6-8552-12724be12e9a" width="166.970000" /> <img alt="page45image2388147568" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/f2a5ab67-a18e-42bb-a698-2cc081d40c8b" width="144.020000" /></div><div class="page" title="Page 46"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">the profound responsibility of making all life decisions on behalf of the incapacitated person </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">cannot be overstated. A decision in which a court fails to fulfill that role cannot stand. See, e.g., S.T., 241 N.J. at 280 (reversing a judgment, finding "[b]y abdicating the Judiciary's nondelegable oversight and factfinding function, the trial court did not proceed in the constitutional manner prescribed by both Rule 4:86-1 to -8 and N.J.S.A. 3B:12-24 to -35 for the appointment of a guardian of an alleged mentally incapacitated person.").</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Rules 4:86-1 to -8 and N.J.S.A. 3B:12-24 to -35 govern actions for guardianship of an alleged incapacitated individual. S.T., 241 N.J. at 280. Those rules and statutes contain "[r]igorous procedural safeguards [to] protect the subject of a guardianship hearing because a finding of incapacity results in an individual's loss of the right of self-determination." Id. at 280-81. Those safeguards apply equally to the determination of incapacity and the appointment of a guardian because once a court determines a person is incapacitated, he or she loses the right of self-determination and the ability to make choices for himself or herself, including the right to choose a guardian.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">What happened in this contested guardianship lawsuit? After plaintiff filed the complaint, the Probate Part judge assigned to the case issued an order on January 3, 2017, scheduling a hearing for February 14, 2017; appointing</span></p></div></div><img alt="page46image2388385328" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/00067c12-c7dd-40c7-bac9-fc8cd1b7f436" width="51.720000" /> <img alt="page46image2388385632" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/ce4bcae2-453a-4df2-bf69-355e47d25977" width="33.480000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">2</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 47"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">attorney Adam Pfeffer as independent counsel for Ruth and directing him to conduct an investigation and submit a written report containing findings and recommendations; and directing "[a]ny next-of-kin and other party-in-interest who wishes to be heard with respect to any of the relief requested in the verified complaint" to file "a written answer, answering affidavit, or a motion."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">After denying plaintiff's requests to withdraw the complaint following Ruth's recent hospitalization or, alternatively, adjourn the hearing, the judge conducted a conference on February 14, 2017, in which plaintiff's then counsel and Pfeffer participated. Plaintiff had not yet served her brothers with the complaint. Following the hearing, plaintiff's counsel served Eliezer, Avi, and their counsel with the complaint, the exhibits to the complaint, and the January 3, 2017 order. Even though the order expressly directed any interested party who wanted to be heard regarding the requested relief to file an answer, affidavit, or motion, Eliezer and Avi did not file a response in February, March, or April 2017.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On May 4, 2017, plaintiff's new counsel submitted an emergent application based on concerns about Ruth's safety and pending discharge from a Care One facility. In his letter brief to the judge, counsel stated his "understanding that no interested party ha[d] filed an answer or opposition to</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">3</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 48"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[the c]omplaint and that there will not be a challenge to the doctors' reports that conclude [Ruth] to be an incapacitated individual." The next day, Eliezer's counsel filed Eliezer's certification, in which he stated Ruth had "made it clear to her attorney, Abraham M. Bielory, that she wants her son, Eliezer, as the person who was to take control"; Eliezer's answer and certification, in which he asserted he, not Anat, should be appointed Ruth's guardian; and Avi's answer and certification, in which he asked the judge to grant "full guardianship" of Ruth to Eliezer. With the submission of those May 5 documents, the guardianship action became a contested lawsuit.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On May 5, 2017, Pfeffer submitted his report, recommending the judge find Ruth incapacitated and appoint Eliezer as her guardian. Pfeffer based his recommendation in part on documents prepared by and information he had received from Bielory, the attorney referenced in Eliezer's certification. One of the documents Pfeffer considered in forming his recommendation was a December 15, 2016 certification Bielory had submitted in a prior litigation, Anat Gordon v. Eliezer and Avi Gordon, No. OCN-C-133-16. Pfeffer attached as an exhibit to his report that certification and other letters written by Bielory. In the certification, Bielory stated Ruth had indicated she wanted Eliezer "as the person who was to take control" and had included Anat in a 2013 living will and power</span></p></div></div><img alt="page48image2388858048" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/47b42683-0822-4bba-8358-d820330dcd5d" width="204.380000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">4</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 49"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">of attorney only so that Anat would "not feel slighted." Pfeffer conducted at least three interviews of Bielory, who, Pfeffer reported, had "reiterated" his opinion that Ruth wanted Eliezer "to be in charge of her general well being and affairs."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On May 8, 2017, the judge heard argument on plaintiff's emergent application. During argument, plaintiff's counsel expressly requested plaintiff "be allowed discovery in terms of getting Mr. Bielory's complete file," contending Bielory's assertions appeared to contradict Ruth's pre-stroke decision to designate Anat as her agent in the 2013 power of attorney Bielory had prepared and as co-executor in the 2013 last will and testament he had prepared.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">2 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Even though the case was now contested as a result of the May 5 submissions and even though Pfeffer had just issued his report recommending</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">2 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">According to my colleagues, Anat "could point to no evidence that it was not Ruth's longstanding choice that Eliezer should be her guardian should she become incapacitated." Ante at 37. The 2013 power of attorney </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">the only power of attorney signed by Ruth before she in 2014 "suffered a massive stroke that resulted in severe cognitive deficits," ante at 5 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">is evidence that Ruth may have chosen Anat as her guardian. There is no evidence that Ruth made a "longstanding choice that Eliezer should be her guardian should she become incapacitated." Ante at 37. Evidence that she may have chosen him is limited to the 2013 living will, the post-stroke documents executed in 2015, and the out- of-court statements of Eliezer, Avi, and Bielory. Given that conflicting evidence, the judge should have permitted discovery and allowed the parties to present evidence at a trial.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page49image2389138480" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/2a2e12f3-42cf-461a-ae6c-1f29cfdd019f" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">5</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 50"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">the judge appoint Eliezer as Ruth's guardian, the judge did not issue a case management order or discovery schedule or otherwise permit the parties to engage in discovery. Instead, he did not grant plaintiff's counsel's request for discovery, denied plaintiff's emergent application, and kept on the calendar a previously-scheduled May 15, 2017 hearing, intending to consider at that time, "whether or not a permanent guardianship [was] warranted and supported; if so, what individual, individuals or entity might be considered for the permanent guardian."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Before the May 15 hearing, plaintiff's counsel sent the judge a letter, expressing concern the judge did not "have a full record that supports the appointment of a guardian for Ruth, the requirements for her current level of care, or what decision would be in her best interests." Counsel asked the judge to enter a case management order allowing the parties to conduct discovery and scheduling a plenary hearing "[s]ince the matter did not become contested until May 5, 2017[,] when [Eliezer's counsel] entered an appearance . . . ." Counsel included in his submission plaintiff's certification. In her certification, in addition to the appointment of a temporary guardian or guardian ad litem, plaintiff asked the judge to give her an opportunity to testify at a plenary hearing and to obtain Bielory's entire file and Ruth's current medical records.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">6</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 51"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">At the May 15, 2017 hearing, Pfeffer reported, among other things, that in the last week, he again had met with Bielory and had reviewed his entire file. He repeated his recommendation that the judge appoint Eliezer as Ruth's guardian. Plaintiff's counsel again asked the judge to allow the parties to conduct discovery, noting plaintiff only recently had learned the basis of Pfeffer's recommendation. Counsel pointed out the role Bielory's information had played in Pfeffer's recommendation and that plaintiff had not had the opportunity to review Bielory's file, which Pfeffer had reviewed in the prior week, or to depose Bielory. Counsel expressly requested leave to depose Bielory "[i]f the court is going to focus on documents that Abe Bielory may or may not have prepared . . . ." Plaintiff's counsel also again asked that "the matter be set down for a plenary hearing, so the court can address or assess the credibility of Mr. Bielory and all the parties before making a finding of fact." Eliezer's attorney opposed plaintiff's counsel's request regarding Bielory, contending the judge already had Bielory's December 15, 2016 certification in the OCN-C-133-16 matter and that "there would be nothing additional that [Bielory] would provide to this court . . . ."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Given the undisputed medical reports and positions of the parties on the issue of Ruth's capacity, the judge held Ruth was incapacitated. Even though</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">7</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 52"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">the parties disputed who should be appointed as Ruth's guardian, the judge decided that issue as well, without allowing the parties to take limited discovery on that contested issue, present testimony and other evidence at a trial, or test the credibility of witnesses through cross-examination. See State v. Basil, 202 N.J. 570, 591 (2010) (finding "[o]ur legal system has long recognized that cross- examination is the 'greatest legal engine ever invented for the discovery of truth'" (quoting California v. Green, 399 U.S. 149, 158 (1970))); State v. Fort, 101 N.J. 123, 131 (1985) (finding a "trial, although inevitably an adversarial proceeding, is above all else a search for truth").</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In yet another procedural anomaly, the judgment was issued on August 30, 2017, more than three months after the decision was placed on the record on May 15, 2017. The Probate Part judge who signed the judgment was not the Probate Part judge who had rendered the decision on the record on May 15, 2017. The judgment gives no indication as to why the judge who rendered the decision did not sign the judgment or what, if anything, the new judge had reviewed or decided in issuing the judgment.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In rendering his decision and in denying plaintiff the right to take discovery and present testimony at a plenary hearing, the first Probate Part judge relied extensively on Bielory's documents, including his certification, and on the</span></p></div></div><img alt="page52image2389852784" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/eeb7f974-bbff-45cf-b570-a398414a5d07" width="79.344000" /> <img alt="page52image2389853088" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/6fc50bc9-7a87-459f-8847-f7622c7e8891" width="115.460000" /> <img alt="page52image2389853392" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/029e7f4f-b44a-4649-b565-bb8fbe8e330e" width="74.040000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">8</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 53"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">prior lawsuits between the parties. He characterized this guardianship lawsuit as "a redo" of those lawsuits and questioned "[w]hy should we reopen a matter which has already been decided?" But those prior lawsuits weren't actions seeking to declare Ruth incapacitated and appoint a guardian for her, and none of them resulted in a judgment about Ruth's incapacity or the appointment of a guardian.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In their March 21, 2016 complaint, Eliezer and Avi sought to validate a March 10, 2015 living will and power of attorney and enjoin Anat from acting under any other power of attorney. On June 3, 2016, Anat filed a verified complaint against Eliezer and Avi, alleging, among other things, defendants had wrongfully converted Ruth's assets for their own purposes, and seeking a judgment vacating Ruth's prior powers of attorney and setting aside the transfer of Ruth's funds to defendants.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">3 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">No one sought in those lawsuits a declaration that Ruth was incapacitated or the appointment of a guardian. And a concession about residency is not the same thing as a decision about a guardianship. Moreover, Ruth was not a party in any of those lawsuits and was not in any way represented in them. Even if the judge found that Anat was somehow bound by</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">3 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Anat filed that complaint in Middlesex County, where it was assigned Docket No. MID-C-82-16. A Middlesex County judge issued an order transferring the case to Ocean County, where it was assigned Docket No. OCN-C-133-16.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page53image2390101024" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/4d4cc72b-5da1-41c0-afea-2cb5bdce6c73" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">9</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 54"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">orders issued in those cases, Ruth, who was not a party to those lawsuits, could not be bound by them.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Perhaps if the discovery and testimony plaintiff sought was inconsequential, the lack of discovery or trial would be of no substantive import. But plaintiff sought discovery of and testimony from Bielory, a critical witness whose documents and out-of-court statements Pfeffer relied on in his report and recommendations and the judge relied on in his decision to appoint Eliezer as Ruth's guardian. In this contested lawsuit, plaintiff was deprived of the right to obtain documents from him, depose him, and cross-examine him at trial.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Maybe Eliezer is the right person to be entrusted with the responsibility of being Ruth's guardian. But that issue was contested, and the decision to appoint him as guardian should not have been reached in a process missing critical "procedural safeguards [designed to] protect the subject of a guardianship hearing" and our justice system's essential tools in the search for truth. S.T., 241 N.J. at 280-281. As our Supreme Court found in S.T., the issue is not whether there was sufficient evidence to support the decision; "[t]he issue is that the trial court failed to conduct the hearing . . . with the due process safeguards required by our court rules and statutes." Id. at 282. How could a decision reached without discovery and without a trial comport with those due</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">10</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 55"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">process safeguards? Certainly, Anat, and perhaps more importantly Ruth, was entitled to an actual trial on the issue of Ruth's guardianship.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">For these reasons, I respectfully dissent from the affirmance of paragraph 2 of the August 30, 2017 judgment appointing Eliezer as Ruth's guardian. I otherwise concur.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page55image2390415664" height="66.600000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/1a08a1ee-7c8d-480d-914a-ed42cffdd66e" width="124.800000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">11</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-3297-18</span></p></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-66077198817316899212023-02-14T20:48:00.002-05:002023-02-14T20:48:06.724-05:00GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS (2005 Edition) <p> <span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS (2005 Edition) </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Approved by the Supreme Court<br />Prepared by the Judiciary-Surrogates Liaison Committee Issued May 2005 <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: windowtext;">GUIDELINES FOR COURT-APPOINTED ATTORNEYS IN GUARDIANSHIP MATTERS </span></b><span style="color: windowtext;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">Rule </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">4:86-4(b) obliges the court to appoint legal counsel to represent persons alleged to be mentally incapacitated. These guidelines are intended to assist a court- appointed attorney in fulfilling the requirements of the . Court Rules in the representation of an alleged mentally incapacitated person. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">As a court-appointed attorney for an alleged incapacitated person, it is your <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">responsibility to meet with the alleged incapacitated person, make inquiries of persons <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">having knowledge of the alleged incapacitated person's circumstances and his or her <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">physical and mental state and his or her property. You must file a written report of findings and recommendations with the court at least three days before the guardianship hearing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In many cases, upon investigation, there will be little question of incapacity and <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">your report should clearly express this conclusion and the facts upon which it is based. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">However, there are cases in which the issue of mental incapacity is a close question of <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">fact. In such circumstances, you may need to petition the court for an independent <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">physical or psychiatric evaluation of the alleged incapacitated person by a medical or <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">mental health professional and advance the argument that the plaintiff has not met the<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">burden and the case should be dismissed. Additionally, the issue of who is the proper <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 1 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page3image938611280" height="598" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/be273778-805f-4f34-ab57-42001b034bf7" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_9" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">person to be appointed the guardian of the person or of the property, or both, is <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">sometimes present.<br />In all cases, a court-appointed attorney must be aware of the obligations and <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">responsibilities inherent in the legal representation of an alleged mentally incapacitated person. The court-appointed attorney acts as an advocate for the interests of the alleged incapacitated person and takes an active part in the proceedings. <i>Matter </i>of <i><span style="position: relative; top: 1pt;">Mason, </span></i><span style="position: relative; top: 1pt;">305 </span><i>N.J. Super. </i>120, 127 (Chan. Div. 1997). See also the <i>Rules </i>of <i>Professional Conduct </i>which mandates that an attorney representing a disabled person should maintain, as much as possible, a normal attorney-client relationship with that person. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: windowtext;">RPC </span></i><span style="color: windowtext;">1.14(a).<br />Attorneys must be mindful that a declaration of mental incap .acity need not <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">necessarily deprive a person of the right to make all decisions. The primary duty of the attorney for an alleged incapacitated person is to protect his or her client's rights, including the right to make decisions on specific matters. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Ordinarily, an attorney should abide by_the client's decisions concerning the <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">objectives of representation and act with reasonable diligence in representing and <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">advocating on behalf of the client. In the context of a guardianship case, this <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">necessitates that you must try to communicate with your client, the alleged <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">incapacitated person, and present the alleged incapacitated person's opinions and <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">(2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 2 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page4image958570512" height="597" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/74d6fb91-ab31-4c7d-9c43-b0db24ad7ce2" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_8" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">preferences to the court, provided the opinions or preferences are not patently absurd or pose an undue risk of harm. <i>In </i>the Matter of <i>M.R., </i>135 <i>N.J. </i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;">155 (1994). </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Even if incapacity is uncontested, the alleged incapacitated person may want to contest other issues. Frequently an incapacitated person has the ability to understand matters affecting his or her own well-being. These alleged incapacitated persons may express personal opinions and preferences, for example, about the identity of the proposed guardian or where they want to live. Your task, as the court-appointed attorney, is to identify these opinions and preferences and convey them to the court. However, if a conflict between the preferences of the alleged incapacitated person and his or her best interests arise, you may wish to inform the court of the conflict and the possible need that a guardian <i>ad litem </i>be appointed. See, <i>In the Matter of M.R., </i>135 <i>N.J. </i>155 (1994). <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">The following procedures typically should be observed: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">1. Call the plaintiffs attorney to obtain background information. Obtain copies of the complaint, order for hearing, physicians' affidavits and any other pleadings from the plaintiffs attorney. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 3 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page5image959040304" height="597" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/3640e133-3a9f-4d37-9ba1-a0658ca947d6" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_7" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">2. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Personally interview the allegedly mentally incapacitated person so that his or her condition may be observed and reported. Attempt to converse with the client. Examine available medical records. Speak with caregivers and other persons familiar with the alleged incapacitated person's physical and mental state as well as with the alleged incapacitated person's property. Inquire into the physician's opinions about the functional abilities of the alleged incapacitated person. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">3. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Try to interview the person who seeks to be appointed the guardian and attempt to elicit the intentions of the proposed guardian for the future care of the alleged incapacitated person and the proposed guardian's qualifications to be guardian. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">4. Make reasonable inquiry concerning the extent of the alleged mentally incapacitated person's assets. Identify any assets that are not mentioned in the plaintiff's pleadings. If questions arise about the prior handling of those assets, bring <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">them to the attention of the court. Your inquiry should include whether the alleged incapacitated person has any property interests, as a beneficiary of a last will and testament or trust. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005. Revised Edition). <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 4 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page6image1603289536" height="598" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/dd027e5e-b860-4ebb-aec0-ba61d4a14d5c" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_6" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">5. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Determinewhether your client-has given a power <span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;">.of attorney in the past </span>and, if so, who is the attorney-in-fact therein appointed who is in possession of the power of attorney and have the powers therein ever been exercised. Obtain a copy of the power of attorney, review the same and report on its content to the court, since it may supply insight into the incapacitated person's financial condition and preferences. Also, in the infrequent circumstance where no one is seeking the guardian appointment, inquire whether the person acting the incapacitated person's attorney-in- fact is willing to be appointed guardian. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">6. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Inquire whether the alleged mentally incapacitated person has made a last will and testament or executed an <i>inter vivos </i>trust instrument and, if so, who is in possession of the last will and testament or trust instrument. Obtain a copy of the last will and testament or trust, review the same and report on their content to the court, since either document may supply insight into the incapacitated person's financial condition and preferences. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: -1pt;">7. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Inquire if the alleged mentally incapacitated person has prepared an <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">advance directive for his or her health care and, if so, who is the health care proxy <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">therein named and who is in possession of the proxy. Obtain a copy of the advance <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 5 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page7image958542272" height="598" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e5632755-722d-4bdc-9880-717f38d67872" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_5" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">directive for health cared review the same and report on its contents to the court since <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">it may supply insight into the incapacitated person's medical preferences. Also, in the <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">infrequent circumstance where no one is seeking the guardian appointment, inquire whether the person acting as the incapacitated person's health care proxy is willing to be appointed guardian. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">8. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">File a written report with the court at least three days prior to the date of guardianship hearing and serve a copy on the plaintiff's attorney and any other party who has appeared in the matter. The report, at a minimum, should address: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">A. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">The information gained and your observations as a result of your inquiries and interviews. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">B. A recommendation concerning the court's determination on the issue of mental incapacity. State your opinion on whether the alleged incapacitated person is unfit and unable to govern himself or herself and to manage his or her affairs. If applicable, propose less restrictive alternatives such as a conservatorship or a limited guardianship. If applicable, indicate in your report whether or not the alleged incapacitated person's condition warrants <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">some personal autonomycand, if so, indicate the extent of personal autonomy <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">that the court should consider allowing the incapacitated person to retain. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 6 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page8image1603293328" height="598" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/a991286a-9bfb-45fd-bb80-9e2c8ece7ca7" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_4" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">For example,' the court may decide that an incapacitated person's ability to control living arrangements or certain financial decisions et cetera, notwithstanding the entry of the judgment of incapacity, are retained. Note. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">In 2000, a model guardianship judgment was approved that promotes the greater use of limited guardianships as suggested by the Supreme Court in <i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;">In </span></i><span style="position: relative; top: 1pt;">the Matter </span><i>of M.R., </i>135 <i>N.J. </i>155, 171 (1994). <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">C. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">State whether a guardian of the person or estate, or both, should be appointed, and if so, whether the individual seeking the appointment is suitable and appropriate. Consult <i>R. </i>4:86-6(c) for priority rights for appointments. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">D. Provide a recommendation to the court concerning the amount of a surety bond that the guardian should post with the court before assuming the guardianship duties. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">E. Make a recommendation to the court whether the scope of the proposed <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">guardian's authority should be restricted or limited. For example, should the <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">authority of the guardian to sell or mortgage the incapacitated person's <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">property be limited. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: -1pt;">F. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">State whether a case management plan for the mentally incapacitated person <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">should be submitted to the court by the guardian. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 7 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page9image959040032" height="598" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/dcffb67d-f261-4226-a810-bb45bb4e5791" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_3" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">G. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Report any additional property of the alleged incapacitated person that is not disclosed in the plaintiff's pleadings. State whether the alleged mentally incapacitated person has expressed any wishes for the disposition of property and/or assets. If preferences have been expressed, indicate those preferences in the report so the court may consider including them in the judgment. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">H. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Provide information concerning your investigation whether the alleged incapacitated person executed a last will and testament, power of attorney, <i><span style="position: relative; top: 1pt;">inter vivos </span></i>trust or advanced health care directive. Make recommendations concerning whether good cause exists for the court to order that any power of attorney, health care directive, or revocable trust, created by the alleged mentally incapacitated person, be revoked, or whether the authority of the person or persons acting thereunder should be modified or restricted. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">If your recommendation is to revoke, modify or restrict any authority granted in such instruments, you should convey this conclusion to the plaintiff's attorney, so, if not previously noticed, .the trustee, attorney-in-fact or health care proxy can be noticed by the plaintiff's attorney to appear at the guardianship hearing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: -1pt;">I. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Advise the court of your opinion on whether the alleged mentally incapacitated person should appear at the hearing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 8 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page10image957702736" height="596" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/c372f821-fe77-40bd-a47a-ba1bfffd945f" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_2" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">J. Include any other matters that should be brought to the attention of the <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">court.<br /><span style="position: relative; top: 1pt;">9. </span>If you conclude that the fact of incapacity is clear and you do not believe <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">that it is necessary that medical witnesses testify, advise the court and the plaintiffs attorney of that view before the hearing, to avoid an unnecessary expense. If there is no jury, the court, with the consent of counsel for the alleged incompetent, may take the testimony of the physician by telephone or may dispense with a physician's oral testimony and rely on affidavits submitted pursuant to <i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;">R. </span></i><span style="position: relative; top: -1pt;">4:86-2(b). <i>R. </i>4:86-6(a). </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">10. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Prior to the hearing, submit an affidavit or certification of services in support of an application for payment of an attorney's fee and expenses. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">11. Appear in court on the date of hearing to represent your client, the alleged incapacitated person. Be prepared to place an oral summary of your findings and conclusions on the record and , if appropriate, to cross-examine the plaintiffs witnesses. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">The plaintiff has the burden of proof and must present evidence of the need for <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">guardianship of the person or property, or both. The plaintiff must establish that the <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">alleged incapacitated person is unfit and unable to govern himself or herself and to <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">manage his or her affairs. The plaintiff should also establish that no less restrictive form <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 9 of 10<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;"><img alt="page11image957799984" height="598" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/dc130670-2d5e-4a6c-aa69-a15a46633028" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_1" width="468" /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">of intervention is reasonable that is consistent with' the person's welfare and safety. Additionally, the plaintiff should also present evidence that the proposed guardian is a fit and proper person to be appointed and that he or she is capable of carrying out the responsibilities of a guardian. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext; position: relative; top: 1pt;">12. </span><span style="color: windowtext;">Finally, if the alleged incapacitated person possesses assets, request that the court consider your fee request and provide for the same in the judgment. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Guidelines for Court-Appointed Attorneys in Guardianship Matters (2005 Revised Edition) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: windowtext;">Page 10 of 10 <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-66336133098770583442023-01-19T14:07:00.000-05:002023-01-19T14:07:30.350-05:00Cranbury Library Wills, Probate & Estate Planning<p> Cranbury Library<br />Wills, Probate & Estate Planning 2023<br />Monday, March 30th 2023 @6:00pm<br />Open to the Public, Free. You do not need to be a resident.<br />SPEAKER: Kenneth Vercammen, Esq. Edison, (Author – ABA’s “Wills and Estate Administration book”)<br />Topics:<br />1. Administering the Estate/Probate/Surrogate<br />2. Dangers If You Have No Will or documents invalid<br />3. Getting your Estate Planning Documents done without going into a law office<br />4. What goes into a Will<br />5. Power of Attorneys recommendations<br />6. Living Will & Advance Directive for Medical Care<br />7. Avoiding unnecessary expenses and saving your family money<br />Free to register<br />Information, Contact:<br />609-722-6992<br />klimek@cranburypubliclibrary.org<br />Can't attend? We can email you materials. Send email to VercammenLaw@Njlaws.com<br />Free Will Seminars and Speakers Bureau for Groups<br />SPEAKERS BUREAU<br />At the request of senior citizen groups, unions, and Middlesex County companies and organizations, the " Speakers Bureau " is a service designed to educate citizens about how laws affect their lives and how the judicial system operates. We have attorneys available to speak to businesspersons, educational, civic and social organizations on a wide range of topics during business hours. If your organization in Central NJ would like to schedule a Will & Estates seminar, call Kenneth Vercammen’s Law Office at 732-572-0500 or email Vercammenlaw@njlaws.com</p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-18700288918476347502023-01-16T16:06:00.003-05:002023-01-16T16:06:48.056-05:00 Don’t put your Will or Power of Attorney in a Safe deposit box<p> <strong style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;">Don’t put your Will or Power of Attorney in a Safe deposit box</span></i></strong></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt; text-align: justify;"><strong><i><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;"> </span></i></strong><b><i><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;"><br /></span></i></b><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;"> Keep your Will in a safe place, but let someone know where it can be found. Buy a fireproof box and put it under the bed. We don't recommend a safe deposit box because banks cant be accessed on weekends or evenings. Remember, the banks all closed due to covid in 2020 and people could not access their own documents.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;"> Husband and wife should have their own wills. They each should know where both are kept. Above all, do not keep your will hidden in the back of your desk or another place where it may be lost or thrown away.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt;"> Have a file, stored in a secure and fireproof location, containing all important documents (wills, titles, securities, contracts, marriage/divorce papers, deeds, pension/profit sharing plans, etc.)<span style="color: #252525; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt; text-align: justify;"><a name="4"></a><strong><i><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;">Keeping Your Will Up To Date</span></i></strong><b><i><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;"><br /></span></i></b><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;"> Periodically review your will to keep it up to date. Keeping it current is just as important as making one in the first place. Changes in your life such as marriage, birth of a child, death, crippling accident, change of witnesses, purchase or sale of property, a change in your financial status - or a change in the estate tax law may make important revisions or a new will advisable.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 7.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="color: #252525; font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13pt; letter-spacing: 0.35pt;">A will drawn in another state can be valid; however, revision in relation to New Jersey laws may be prudent. You are free to change it at any time, but do so correctly.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">Source http://www.co.cumberland.nj.us/content/22602/23182/23382/23402.aspx#intes<o:p></o:p></span></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-49753739660656095552022-12-28T13:15:00.002-05:002023-01-10T14:33:58.289-05:00Wills and Estate Planning Seminar
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 5.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: .75pt;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Piscataway Public Library</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 5.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 76.2pt; margin-top: .75pt;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Estate Planning and Probate 2023</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Tuesday February
21 @6:00pm </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">SPEAKER: </span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Kenneth
Vercammen, Esq. Edison, (Author – ABA’s “Wills and Estate Administration book”)
</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Topics:</span></u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1. What goes into a will</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dangers
If You Have No Will or documents invalid</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Getting your Estate
Planning Documents done without going into a <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>law
office</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">4.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">NJ
Estate Tax eliminated and Inheritance Tax reduced</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Power
of Attorneys recommendations</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">6.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Living
Will & Advance Directive for Medical Care</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">7.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Administering
the Estate/Probate /Surrogate</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 27.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">8.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Avoiding
unnecessary expenses and saving your family money</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Piscataway Public Library Kennedy Branch</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">500 Hoes Lane</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Piscataway NJ 08854</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">732-463-1633x6</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Link for free registration:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://piscatawaylibrary.org/joinus/"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">https://piscatawaylibrary.org/joinus/</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">more info:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 4.5pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">https://piscatawaylibrary.org</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Free Will
Seminars and Speakers Bureau for Groups</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">SPEAKERS
BUREAU</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> At
the request of senior citizen groups, unions, and Middlesex County companies
and organizations, the " Speakers Bureau " is a service designed to
educate citizens about how laws affect their lives and how the judicial system
operates. We have attorneys available to speak to businesspersons,
educational, civic and social organizations on a wide range of topics during
business hours. If your organization in Central NJ would like to
schedule a Will & Estates seminar, call Kenneth Vercammen’s Law Office at
732-572-0500 or email </span><a href="mailto:Vercammenlaw@njlaws.com"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Vercammenlaw@njlaws.com</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 10 years ago the
AARP Network Attorneys of the Edison/Metuchen/Woodbridge area several years ago
established a community Speakers Bureau to provide educational programs to AARP
and senior clubs, Unions and Middlesex County companies. Now, Ken Vercammen,
Esq. and volunteer attorneys of the Middlesex County Estate Planning Council
have provided Legal Rights Seminars to hundreds of seniors, business owners and
their employees, unions, clubs, and non-profit groups </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Details on free programs available</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> These quality daytime
educational programs will educate and even entertain. Clubs and companies are
invited to schedule a free seminar. The following Seminars are now
available: </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1. WILLS & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION-PROTECT
YOUR FAMILY AND </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">MAKE PLANNING EASY </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2. POWER OF ATTORNEY to permit family to pay
your bills if you are temporarily disabled and permit doctors to talk with
family </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> All
instructors are licensed attorneys who have been in practice at least 25 years.
All instructors are members of the American Bar Association, New Jersey </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">State Bar Association, and Middlesex County Bar
Association. All programs include free written materials. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> You don't have to be
wealthy or near death to do some thinking about a Will. Here is your
opportunity to listen to an experienced attorney who will discuss how to
distribute your property as you wish and avoid many rigid provisions of state
law. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Topics
discussed include: Who needs a Will?; What if you die without a Will
(intestacy)?; Mechanics of a Will; "Living Will"; Powers of Attorney;
Selecting an executor, trustee, and guardian; Proper Will execution;
Inheritance Taxes, Estate Taxes $14,000 annual gift tax
exclusion, Bequests to charity, Why you need a
"Self-Proving" Will and Estate Administration/ Probate.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Sample
materials: Hand-outs on Wills, Living Wills/Medical Advance Directive, Power of
Attorney, Probate and Administration of an Estate, Real Estate, Working with
your Attorney, Consumers Guide to New Jersey Laws, and Senior Citizen
Rights. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> About
the speaker: Kenneth A. Vercammen is a trial attorney in Edison, NJ. We is the
author of the American Bar Association’s book “Wills and Estate Administration”</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He is
co-chair of the ABA Probate & Estate Planning Law Committee of the American
Bar Association Solo Small Firm Division. He is a speaker for the NJ
State Bar Association at the annual Nuts & Bolts of Elder Law & Estate
Administration program. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 20.0pt; margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He was
Editor of the ABA Estate Planning Probate Committee Newsletter. Mr. Vercammen
has published over 150 legal articles in national and New Jersey publications
on litigation, elder law, probate and trial topics. He is a highly regarded
lecturer on litigation and probate law for the American Bar Association, NJ
ICLE, New Jersey State Bar Association and Middlesex County Bar Association.
His articles have been published in noted publications included New Jersey Law
Journal, ABA Law Practice Management Magazine, and New Jersey Lawyer. He
established the NJlaws website </span><a href="http://www.njlaws.com"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">www.njlaws.com</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> which
includes many articles on Estate Planning, Probate and Wills. He is a member of
the AARP and often lectures to groups on the importance of an up to date Will,
Power of Attorney and Living Will.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <b>KENNETH VERCAMMEN &
ASSOCIATES, PC</b></span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ATTORNEY AT LAW</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2053 Woodbridge Ave.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Edison, NJ 08817</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">(Phone) 732-572-0500</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 9.0pt; margin-right: 76.2pt; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.njlaws.com"><span style="font-family: "Geneva",sans-serif; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">www.njlaws.com</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<style>@font-face
{font-family:Helvetica;
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1342208091 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Geneva;
panose-1:2 11 5 3 3 4 4 4 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1375739999 10534912 0 415 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style><p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:#0563C1;
mso-themecolor:hyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}p
{mso-style-priority:99;
mso-margin-top-alt:auto;
margin-right:0in;
mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-3114621754020780642022-12-26T14:47:00.000-05:002022-12-26T14:47:20.782-05:00<p style="text-align: center;"> <b>KENNETH VERCAMMEN & ASSOCIATES, PC</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>ATTORNEY AT LAW</b></p><p style="text-align: center;">2053 Woodbridge Ave. Edison, NJ 08817</p><p style="text-align: center;">732-572-0500<span> </span>www.njlaws.com</p><p style="text-align: left;">Greetings Edison Neighbors:</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span>We are offering a Free Program to our Neighbors, friends and any persons who assist with parents and seniors.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span>Please join us at at the anunal Update-Wills and Estate Planning Seminar January 11, 2023 at 12:15-1:00 PM. The "in office" program is limited to 6 people. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span>Program can also be watched on your computer or iPhone via Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/kenneth.vercammen</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span>The Program is Free, but we request you bring a canned food donation, which will be given to the St. Matthew's St. Vincent DePaul Food Bank. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><u>Main Topics:</u></p><p style="text-align: left;">1. What goes into a will</p><p style="text-align: left;">2. Power of Attorneys recommendations </p><p style="text-align: left;">3. Living Will / Advance Directive </p><p style="text-align: left;">4. Dangers If You Have No Will or documents invalid</p><p style="text-align: left;">5. Getting your Estate Plnnig Documents done without driving to the law office </p><p style="text-align: left;">6. NJ Estate Tax eliminated and making probate easier </p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><b>AARP recommends seniors and Home Owners to put their affairs in order. Get your Will done now!</b></i></p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><b><span> </span></b></i>Also, our Runner's Club is having its annual trail group run January 7 at 10am. Runners bring canned food donation for the St. Matthew's Food Bank. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><b> </b></i><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><b><span> </span><span> </span><span> <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></span></b></i>Your neighbor, </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>KENNETH VERCAMMEN-</p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Chair<span> </span>ABA<span> </span>Probate & Estate Planning </p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> Committee, Solo & Small Firm Division </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span> </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span>If you cannot attend or are interested in a future program at the Library, email us at VercammenLaws@Njlaws.com to receive the materials from the program</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span>Email address: _________________________________________ </span><br /></p>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-79968431225475919052022-11-09T11:52:00.006-05:002022-11-09T11:52:58.182-05:00 C.L. v. Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Serv. Specific, Mandatory Irrevocability Clause in Annuity Contract Controlled to Make Contract Uncountable as Medicaid Resource<p> <span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545; font-family: ProximaNova-Regular; font-size: 18px;">Specific, Mandatory Irrevocability Clause in Annuity Contract Controlled to Make Contract Uncountable as Medicaid Resource </span></p><div class="row" id="article-standard" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; font-family: ProximaNova-Regular; font-size: 18px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important;"><div class="col-lg-9" id="article-left-col" style="box-sizing: border-box; flex: 0 0 75%; max-width: 75%; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 15px; position: relative; width: 862.5px;"><div class="row" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important;"><div class="col-lg-11 col-sm-12" style="box-sizing: border-box; flex: 0 0 91.66666412353516%; max-width: 91.66666412353516%; padding-left: 15px; padding-right: 15px; position: relative; width: 776.875px;"><div class="article-body" style="box-sizing: border-box; flex: 0 0 65%; font-family: ProximaNova-Regular, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; overflow: hidden;"><div id="case-digest-summary" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: ProximaNova-Regular;"><p style="box-sizing: border-box; color: black; font-size: 19px; line-height: 30px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 0px;">Plaintiff appealed from defendant's final agency decision that affirmed the denial of plaintiff's application for Medicaid benefits on grounds that her financial resources exceeded the maximum limits. Plaintiff had purchased an annuity contract from the Croatian Fraternal Union of America as part of a spend-down plan to allow plaintiff to qualify for Medicaid. Under the terms of the annuity contract, plaintiff had a 10-day period to rescind the contract for a refund, after which the annuity contract would become irrevocable and could not be transferred, assigned, or surrendered and had no cash or loan value. The terms of the contract did give CFUA's president, secretary, or treasurer the authority to change the contract or waive any of its requirements.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />The county board denied plaintiff's application for Medicaid benefits, concluding that her resources exceeded the maximum limits because her CFUA annuity contract could count as a resource. Plaintiff applied for a fair hearing, and defendant assigned the matter to an ALJ. At the hearing before the ALJ, defendant presented a ruling in another Medicaid application involving a CFUA annuity contract. In that case, the CFUA president granted an annuity contract holder an extra 30 days to make payment; the administrative hearing determined that the annuity contract was revocable and therefore could be counted as a resource. Based on those facts, the ALJ in the present case affirmed the denial of plaintiff's Medicaid application.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />On appeal, plaintiff argued that the ALJ erred in finding the annuity contract was revocable where the terms of the contract expressly stated that it would become irrevocable upon the expiration of the 10-day rescission period. The court agreed with plaintiff and reversed the denial of her Medicaid application. The court concurred with plaintiff that the annuity contract expressly and unambiguously stated that it would become irrevocable if plaintiff did not rescind within 10 days of purchase. The court ruled that the ALJ erred in relying on prior cases finding CFUA contracts to be amendable and therefore revocable. Instead, the court held that the specific irrevocability provision of the contract controlled over the more general and undefined provisions giving CFUA officers the ability to amend the terms of the contract. The court also noted that the amendment clause was permissive in nature, giving CFUA officers the option of amending or waiving provisions of the contract in writing, as opposed to the mandatory nature of the irrevocability clause which automatically made the contract irrevocable and untransferable. source Daily briefing <span style="background-color: white; color: #454545; font-size: 15px;">October 31, 2022</span></p><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 1"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">C.L.,<br />Petitioner-Appellant,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">v.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">DIVISION OF MEDICAL ASSISTANCE AND HEALTH SERVICES,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Respondents-Respondents, and</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">BERGEN COUNTY<br />BOARD OF SOCIAL SERVICES,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Respondent.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY APPELLATE DIVISION<br />DOCKET NO. A-4284-19</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: 700;">APPROVED FOR PUBLICATION October 17, 2022 APPELLATE DIVISION</span></p></div></div><img alt="page1image1042452928" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/7ea39c5d-f08f-44fa-8622-5512b406b03b" width="216.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Submitted September 28, 2022 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Decided October 17, 2022</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Before Judges Whipple, Mawla, and Marczyk.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On appeal from the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The opinion of the court was delivered by MARCZYK, J.S.C., t/a</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 2"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">C.L. appeals from a Final Agency Decision (FAD) from the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (DMAHS) denying her request for Medicaid benefits due to excess resources. Specifically, DMAHS determined an annuity C.L. purchased, which she understood to be irrevocable, was revocable and counted as a resource, thereby disqualifying her from Medicaid benefits. Following our review of the record and applicable legal principles, we reverse.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">I.<br />C.L. purchased an annuity contract with the Croatian Fraternal Union of</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">America (CFUA) as part of a spend-down plan to qualify for Medicaid benefits. The annuity contract provides C.L. had a right to rescind the contract within ten days of receipt if she wanted to receive a complete refund of her money.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">1 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The contract also states after the ten-day rescission period, it: "(1) is</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt;">1</span></p></div></div><img alt="page2image1681363120" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/32e64bd8-30f9-42e2-9331-e488736d86af" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">As part of her application, signed and dated May 20, 2019, C.L. signed an acknowledgements page which stated in part, "I understand that this annuity is non-transferrable, non-assignable, non-commutable, non-surrenderable, and</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">2</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 3"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">irrevocable and immediate; (2) may not be transferred, assigned, surrendered, or commuted; and (3) has no cash or loan value" (Irrevocability Clause). The dispute in this matter arises from DMAHS's interpretation of language contained in the annuity contract's application, which is incorporated by reference into the contract. The provision, at issue, states the parties "understand . . . only the National President or the National Secretary/Treasurer of the [CFUA] may, in writing, make or change the contract or waive any of its rights or requirements" (Amendment Clause).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In June 2019, C.L. applied for Medicaid benefits through the Bergen County Board of Social Services (BCBSS). On September 23, 2019, BCBSS denied her application on the basis her resources exceeded the maximum required under Medicaid law because of the CFUA annuity. Thereafter, C.L.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">____________________<br />permanently irrevocable." On June 7, 2019, a letter from CFUA addressed to C.L., stated in part:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Please be advised that your single life fixed benefit annuity . . . is irrevocable. It may not be transferred, assigned, surrendered, or commuted. Furthermore, it has zero cash or loan value . . . . Please know that the [CFUA] will deny any request to change any . . . terms or conditions of the contract, once the contract has been issued.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On June 11, 2019, the broker sent a letter to C.L., which included the annuity contract. The letter reiterated that the annuity is "irrevocable, non-assignable, and offers zero cash or loan value." (Emphasis added).</span></p></div></div><img alt="page3image1682842000" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/7df915cf-2260-4b0e-aebd-ee732f83dc70" width="144.380000" /> <img alt="page3image1682842288" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/45765c49-d9a2-462a-bac1-12842f42c178" width="66.360000" /> <img alt="page3image1682842576" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/c33e2953-f197-4229-adc3-e53ff759c3d8" width="161.300000" /> <img alt="page3image1682842864" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/52414164-38ca-43ad-9ebf-0dd3d6fe3a05" width="319.030000" /><img alt="page3image1682843152" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/cf6856a4-7339-4fdd-bd89-ea10e569eddd" width="66.360000" /> <img alt="page3image1682843440" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/d53a53e0-bc5e-401a-b90f-529ae1c69b0c" width="135.980000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">3</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 4"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">filed for a fair hearing before DMAHS, which transmitted the matter to the Office of Administrative Law (OAL) as a contested case.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The primary issue before the administrative law judge (ALJ) was whether BCBSS's decision to count the CFUA annuity as a resource was correct. A BCBSS representative testified that in reaching its conclusion, BCBSS focused on the similarities between C.L.'s application and a prior case from Ocean County involving M.M., in which the applicant also purchased an annuity from the CFUA.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">2 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Edward Pazo, CFUA's president, testified regarding M.M.'s case and the annuity contract at issue in this matter.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">M.M.'s annuity contract had language identical to C.L.'s contract regarding irrevocability and the Amendment Clause. M.M. applied for a CFUA annuity, but later asked the CFUA to extend the payment by one month because there was a calculation error in the initial application. Pazo testified that because of the calculation error, he permitted the length of payment to be extended by one month, but the CFUA did not revoke the contract nor did the annuitant ever ask for the money back. He testified "for processing purposes,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">2 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">M.M. v. Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., No. HMA 1057-19, final decision (June 19, 2019) (slip op.) http://njlaw.rutgers.edu/collections/oal/final/hma01057-19_1.pdf.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page4image1682291760" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/f09c6fad-6a85-47de-a43d-3fd801178741" width="144.020000" /> <img alt="page4image1682292048" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/c9297533-8cdd-42bf-8637-10ddb9e4c122" width="292.610000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">4</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 5"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">we assigned it a new contract number" to keep track of the annuity. He emphasized M.M.'s contract remained irrevocable without any cash surrender.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">3</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On March 17, 2020, the ALJ affirmed BCBSS's decision based on the Amendment Clause and the CFUA amending the annuity contract in M.M.'s case. In short, the ALJ determined the contract was revocable. On March 25, 2020, C.L. filed timely exceptions primarily based on an injunction entered against DMAHS in federal court concerning another CFUA annuitant and involving the same Irrevocability and Amendment Clauses.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">4 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">On June 16, 2020, DMAHS entered a FAD, which affirmed the ALJ's decision. Specifically, the FAD noted the annuity contract at issue was a revocable contract thereby rendering it a resource. On July 28, 2020, C.L. also filed for a preliminary injunction in federal court and subsequently filed this appeal on July 29, 2020. On September 10, 2020, with the consent of the Attorney</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt;">3</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt;">4</span></p></div></div><img alt="page5image1682478464" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/7441202e-e4e4-4122-814c-92caa80dc77b" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Pazo believed the contract referenced and incorporated the Amendment Clause to comply with regulatory changes and governmental rulings that would require the CFUA to amend its contracts.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The federal court specifically enjoined DMAHS from "continuing to enforce; or directing their employees, subordinate, attorneys, and assigns to enforce; a policy that an annuity contract issued by the [CFUA], which is subject to a provision that the 'National President or Secretary/Treasurer of the [CFUA] may, in writing, make or change a contract or waive any of its rights or requirements,' be counted as an available resource, due to the presence of that term."</span></p></div></div><img alt="page5image1682551072" height="16.080000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/b941f004-20cb-4fc2-b9cc-cf54cf8c8eb4" width="395.230000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Cushing v. Jacobs, No. 20-cv-130, 2020 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 51351,</span></p></div></div><img alt="page5image1682558720" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/3a4d3a3e-e73b-4ae9-ab44-67ad881687b2" width="108.380000" /> <img alt="page5image1682559008" height="16.080000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/027224cd-90cd-4e4f-be60-2f0cbc132b52" width="175.220000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">at *11 (D.N.J. Mar. 25, 2020)</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">.<br />5</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 6"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">General, this appeal was stayed until December 2020. The federal court never addressed the request for the injunction and C.L. proceeded with this appeal.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">5</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">II.<br />C.L. argues when an annuitant cannot liquidate an annuity, it cannot be</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">treated as a resource. 20 C.F.R. 416.1201(a). Further, after the ten-day "free look" period, she did not have the unilateral right to revoke the annuity contract or demand a return of the premium. C.L. asserts there was nothing in the Amendment Clause or any other part of the contract that gives C.L. the right to revoke the annuity. Although the application indicates the president or treasurer has the power to amend the contract, that does not confer any legal rights upon C.L. She contends, "at most [the clause is] merely a notice . . . for [regulatory] compliance purposes."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">C.L. argues the CFUA issued the annuity contract, including the Amendment Clause, with the approval of the State Division of Banking and Insurance (DOBI) and sold it as an "irrevocable annuity contract." DMAHS ignored this fact and mistakenly treated the contract as if it were revocable. Finally, C.L. contends DMAHS's reliance on M.M.'s case is wholly inapposite,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">5 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">C.L. passed away while this appeal was pending.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page6image1681972800" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/ed50f5d2-1cd8-42ae-8ed7-9a53dc980d90" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">6</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 7"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">because the annuitant there did not receive her money back and instead received a modified annuity.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">6</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">III.<br />We begin by addressing our standard of review and general governing</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">legal principles. This court's review of DMAHS's determination is ordinarily limited. Barone v. Dep't of Human Servs., Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 210 N.J. Super. 276, 285 (App. Div. 1986) ("We must give due deference to the views and regulations of an administrative agency charged with the responsibility of implementing legislative determinations."); see also Wnuck v. N.J. Div. of Motor Vehicles, 337 N.J. Super. 52, 56 (App. Div. 2001) ("It is settled that [a]n administrative agency's interpretation of statutes and regulations within its implementing and enforcing responsibility is ordinarily entitled to our deference.") (alteration in original) (citations and internal quotation marks omitted). "Where [an] action of an administrative agency is challenged, a presumption of reasonableness attaches to the action of an administrative agency[,] and the party who challenges the validity of that action has the burden of showing that it was arbitrary, unreasonable or capricious." Barone, 210 N.J. Super. at 285 (citation and internal quotation</span></p></div></div><img alt="page7image1733388272" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/ef574c00-c45f-4f55-9bbc-dd37fd8ea62b" width="413.110000" /> <img alt="page7image1733388560" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/59c8de8d-935f-4872-8408-35eb3d39fb3c" width="36.480000" /> <img alt="page7image1733388848" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/60ba622c-1f13-4e83-923b-d202b8c86e9d" width="47.520000" /> <img alt="page7image1733389136" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/5217fcd0-32f2-4fdd-b274-89863bdbd9fd" width="242.180000" /><img alt="page7image1733389424" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/d2a397e3-f287-4419-a6f6-ce53fde468dd" width="42.264000" /> <img alt="page7image1733389776" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/9d251c12-fd0c-4056-9e44-652010562467" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt;">6<br /></span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">violated the standards for rulemaking.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">C.L. further contends DMAHS's FAD violated the federal injunction and</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">7</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 8"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">marks omitted). "Delegation of authority to an administrative agency is construed liberally when the agency is concerned with the protection of the health and welfare of the public." Ibid. Thus, ordinarily our task is limited to deciding:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">(1) whether the agency's decision offends the State or Federal Constitution; (2) whether the agency's action violates express or implied legislative policies; (3) whether the record contains substantial evidence to support the findings on which the agency based its action; and (4) whether in applying the legislative policies to the facts, the agency clearly erred in reaching a conclusion that could not reasonably have been made on a showing of the relevant factors.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">[A.B. v. Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 407 N.J. Super. 330, 339 (App. Div. 2009) (citation omitted).]</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Nevertheless, we are "in no way bound by the agency's interpretation of a statute or its determination of a strictly legal issue." R.S. v. Div. of Med. Assistance & Health Servs., 434 N.J. Super. 250, 261 (App. Div. 2014) (quoting Mayflower Sec. Co. v. Bureau of Sec. in Div. of Consumer Affs. of Dep't of L. & Pub. Safety, 64 N.J. 85, 93 (1973)). "[If] an agency's determination . . . is a legal determination, our review is de novo." L.A. v. Bd. of Educ. of City of Trenton, Mercer Cty., 221 N.J. 192, 204 (2015) (citation omitted).</span></p></div></div><img alt="page8image1733613264" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/0ae7e16e-2c0c-466b-9636-33e9157ee1f4" width="289.490000" /> <img alt="page8image1733613552" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/60bad898-4cd2-4e51-80ff-82efe566b667" width="126.500000" /> <img alt="page8image1733613840" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/5cde2fe1-dfeb-4dfc-b180-fd5e658024f5" width="174.140000" /><img alt="page8image1733614128" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/fb7b34b8-c104-45ea-9dca-909a61dafe8f" width="413.110000" /> <img alt="page8image1733614416" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e9d793f1-81b6-4ab7-816f-6732a77eee88" width="175.700000" /> <img alt="page8image1733614704" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/daf65df9-a9c6-414a-8b1d-a9166dd36357" width="66.720000" /><img alt="page8image1733614992" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/2d7cac14-a802-433c-b203-6d9acc2d8ed8" width="251.540000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">8</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 9"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">"We do not . . . simply rubber stamp the agency's decision." Paff v. N.J. Dep't of Lab., 392 N.J. Super. 334, 340 (App. Div. 2007) (citing Henry v. Rahway State Prison, 81 N.J. 571, 579-80 (1980)). Instead, we will "intervene . . . in those . . . circumstances in which an agency action is clearly inconsistent with its statutory mission or other state policy." In re Musick, 143 N.J. 206, 216 (1996). Since the issue before us presents a legal question involving an interpretation of an annuity contract, we are not bound by DMAHS's decision, and our review is de novo.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">IV.<br />The issue presented is whether, despite the express language in the</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">annuity contract concerning irrevocability, the Amendment Clause renders the annuity revocable and, therefore, a resource</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">7 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">under New Jersey's Medicaid provisions.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">In interpreting a contract, we are guided by well-established principles. "A basic principle of contract interpretation is to read the document as a whole in a fair and common sense manner." Hardy ex rel. Dowdell v. Abdul</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Matin,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">7 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">A resource is defined as "cash or other liquid assets or any real or personal property that an individual (or spouse, if any) owns and could convert to cash to be used for his or her support and maintenance." 20 C.F.R. § 416.1201(a). Similarly, New Jersey regulations define a resource as "any real or personal property which is owned . . . and which could be converted to cash . . . ." N.J.A.C. 10:71</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">–</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">4.1(b).</span></p></div></div><img alt="page9image1733850384" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/4072edb9-f156-4352-906f-9076183999c6" width="67.560000" /> <img alt="page9image1733850672" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/5ff076b3-37a4-4426-b8e7-93e954b57c38" width="82.800000" /> <img alt="page9image1733850960" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/5551cdd9-642c-49ef-b2a2-390d1bfc6cf6" width="54.000000" /> <img alt="page9image1733851248" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/8b76bd43-66db-42f4-a42f-7e55df8231d5" width="123.140000" /> <img alt="page9image1733851536" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/39ea939d-6d33-4b3d-a38b-83cca84fdbcb" width="75.384000" /> <img alt="page9image1733851824" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/7a3255ef-4299-4ced-a497-506bebbbba59" width="232.490000" /><img alt="page9image1733852112" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/6517eb12-4b3a-4350-b44d-9b82d25b0561" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">9</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 10"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">198 N.J. 95, 103 (2009). If we find the terms "are clear and unambiguous, there is no room for construction and the court must enforce those terms as written," in addition to giving them "'their plain, ordinary meaning.'" Watson v. City of E. Orange, 175 N.J. 442, 447 (2003) (Long J., dissenting); Pizzullo v. N.J. Mfrs. Ins. Co., 196 N.J. 251, 270 (2008) (quoting Zacarias v. Allstate Ins. Co., 168 N.J. 590, 595 (2001)).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Importantly, "[a] contract 'should not be interpreted to render one of its terms meaningless.'" Porreca v. City of Millville, 419 N.J. Super. 212, 233 (App. Div. 2011) (quoting Cumberland Cty. Improvement Auth. v. GSP Recycling Co., 358 N.J. Super. 484, 497 (App. Div. 2003)). Further, when interpreting a contract, "[s]o long as it leads to a result in harmony with the contracting parties' overall objective a specific, defined term controls a general, undefined term." Gil v. Clara Maass Med. Ctr., 450 N.J. Super. 368, 378 (App. Div. 2017). Therefore, when both general language of a contract and specific language address the same issue, the specific language controls. See, e.g., Homesite Ins. Co. v. Hindman, 413 N.J. Super. 41, 48 (App. Div. 2010) (referencing "the well-recognized rule of construction that when two provisions dealing with the same subject matter are present, the more specific provision controls over the more general").</span></p></div></div><img alt="page10image1734072848" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/fa26573e-a16d-41b8-a11d-3bcdc6917108" width="44.400000" /> <img alt="page10image1734073136" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/6a23e840-b921-4782-adf4-3f327923beae" width="123.260000" /> <img alt="page10image1734073424" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/dcdd40c6-1fc1-4596-854f-2760cc7ea26c" width="48.240000" /> <img alt="page10image1734073712" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/2a93081d-10bf-48d5-91fb-f73fd7e3abaa" width="129.860000" /> <img alt="page10image1734074000" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/52ded7b7-f65b-4e87-a403-9ca66f6e78ee" width="116.900000" /> <img alt="page10image1734074288" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/e8dee031-af06-463f-bfcd-241b5d83d6ea" width="46.440000" /> <img alt="page10image1734074576" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/c5b846a5-a5a3-4b75-b822-50637560abca" width="168.500000" /><img alt="page10image1734074864" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/dc7be9c3-1d7b-4a91-a3e0-5cdb00d07306" width="289.850000" /> <img alt="page10image1734075280" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/287f3fa3-7912-4498-827b-b72609867e96" width="86.280000" /> <img alt="page10image1734075568" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/927d4a16-4ee4-4e5c-94f4-1c4ca59dc741" width="175.340000" /> <img alt="page10image1734075856" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/43108b55-1390-4187-bd59-3c1ea2d9e0ca" width="52.080000" /><img alt="page10image1734076144" height="0.720030" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/fcaf816e-a855-436c-87f2-b19d476399d1" width="186.860000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">10</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 11"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Guided by these standards, we determine the annuity was irrevocable and should not be considered a resource. To qualify for Medicaid benefits, an individual may not have more than $2,000 in countable assets. Annuities purchased by Medicaid applicants are not countable assets if they meet certain criteria, including irrevocability. See 42 U.S.C. § 1396p(c)(1)(G)(ii). 42 U.S.C. § 1396p(c)(1)(G)(ii) provides that a purchased annuity is considered an "asset" unless the annuity is (1) irrevocable and nonassignable, (2) actuarially sound, and (3) provides for payments in equal amounts during the term or the annuity, with no deferral or balloon payments.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Here, the annuity contract provides:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPS; font-size: 14pt; font-weight: 700;">Irrevocable. </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">This contract: (1) is irrevocable and immediate (2) may not be transferred, assigned, surrendered or commuted; and (3) has not cash or loan value. The Annuitant may not be changed. No change maybe be made: (1) in the Benefit Period; or (2) in the frequency for payment.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">The Amendment Clause language in the application, incorporated by reference into the contract, states: "[o]nly the National President or the National Secretary/Treasurer of the [CFUA] may, in writing, make or change the contract or waive any of its rights or requirements."</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">8 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">DMAHS relies on this</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt;">8</span></p></div></div><img alt="page11image1734272800" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/80aee904-97f3-4639-9ab2-bb399458e884" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Although not dispositive of our holding in this matter, we note N.J.A.C. 11:4-43.1(a) provides "[t]his subchapter . . . [sets] forth standards and requirements that individual annuity contract forms . . . issued . . . in this State</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">11</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 12"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Amendment Clause, coupled with the testimony of the CFUA president that he permitted an annuitant to amend an annuity because of a miscalculation, for the proposition that the entire annuity contract is revocable. We are not persuaded by this argument.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">We conclude the CFUA annuity contract is unambiguous and that it is</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">irrevocable. The plain, ordinary meaning of the annuity contract language</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">("irrevocable," "may not be transferred, assigned, surrendered[,] or</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">commuted," no "cash . . . value") makes clear the CFUA intended for the</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">annuity to be irrevocable and it was reasonable for C.L. to view it as such.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Whether the CFUA president properly allowed an annuitant on a prior</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">occasion to amend an annuity is not germane to our analysis. To adopt</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">DMAHS's argument would require us to ignore the unambiguous language of</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">the contract concerning irrevocability. We decline to do so because it would</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">render the irrevocable provisions irrelevant; a result we should avoid. Porreca,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">____________________<br />are required to satisfy in order to obtain approval from the Commissioner." Subchapter 43 generally addresses "Individual Annuity Contract Form Standards." N.J.A.C. 11:4-43.3(f) provides an annuity contract form "may contain language that permits the insurer unilaterally to amend or modify the form to satisfy any applicable law. However, the owner shall be permitted to refuse any such change unless noncompliance would cause the contract to be null and void or fail to comply with New Jersey or Federal law." Although the Amendment Clause does not exactly mirror N.J.A.C. 11:4-43.3(f), it appears it is derived from this provision. Moreover, as more fully discussed below, the annuity at issue had to be filed with the Insurance Commissioner prior to being issued in New Jersey. N.J.A.C. 11:4-43.3(a).</span></p></div></div><img alt="page12image1736677168" height="0.720000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/f2c28549-fa9a-42fd-81df-5f3a03229ee5" width="44.880000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">12</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 13"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">419 N.J. Super. at 233. Moreover, we view the Amendment Clause as a general provision when compared to the explicit and specific irrevocability provisions of the contract. Accordingly, the Irrevocability Clause controls the general, undefined Amendment Clause. See Gil, 450 N.J. Super. at 378. Lastly, the Amendment Clause contains permissive language, namely, the president "may" make changes, and certainly does not confer any rights on the annuitant to change the irrevocable nature of the contract.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Our analysis is further buttressed by reference to the DOBI regulations concerning annuities. N.J.A.C. 11:4-40.3(b) provides no annuity contract in New Jersey "shall contain provisions which are unjust, unfair, inequitable, misleading or contrary to law or to the public policy of this State." Moreover, N.J.A.C. 11:4-40.5(a) states: "No insurer shall . . . issue . . . in this State any form unless the form has been approved by the Commissioner pursuant to the procedures set forth in this subchapter . . . ." There is no indication DOBI did not approve this annuity contract. DMAHS's argument is essentially the contract</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">—</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">which DOBI approved</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">—</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">is misleading and its irrevocability clauses should be disregarded. DMAHS's contentions are unavailing. In fact, DMAHS's interpretation would render the contract "misleading" contrary to N.J.A.C. 11:4-40.3.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">13</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black;" title="Page 14"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">C.L. should not be prejudiced because the CFUA on a prior occasion amended an annuity to correct a miscalculation. C.L. never attempted to revoke her annuity, and there is no indication she could have done so in any event, given the language of the contract. There is simply no indication C.L. could unilaterally liquidate the annuity. Accordingly, we determine the CFUA annuity contract is irrevocable for the purposes of qualifying for Medicaid Benefits and should not be considered as a resource for C.L.</span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">9</span></p><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Reversed.</span></p></div></div><img alt="page14image1736994400" height="60.350000" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/beca7340-ad8f-46fc-8b11-52be367d5f8b" width="124.600000" /> <img alt="page14image1736994704" height="0.719970" src="blob:https://www.blogger.com/75534859-5f56-434a-9baa-be3a005a80a7" width="144.020000" /><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 9pt; vertical-align: 5pt;">9 </span><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">Because we have reversed DMAHS's FAD, we do not reach C.L.'s argument DMAHS violated the federal injunction by finding the annuity contract is revocable and her argument DMAHS violated the standards for rulemaking.</span></p></div></div><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 14pt;">14</span></p></div><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; font-size: 8pt;">A-4284-19</span></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-71841452397528745412022-07-12T16:53:00.003-04:002022-07-12T16:53:15.418-04:00 4:86-12. Special Medical Guardian in General Equity<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700;">4:86-12. Special Medical Guardian in General Equity</span></p><div class="page" title="Page 18"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(a) Standards. On the application of a hospital, nursing home, treating physician, relative or other appropriate person under the circumstances, the court may appoint a special guardian of the person of a patient to act for the patient respecting medical treatment consistent with the court's order, if it finds that:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(1) the patient is incapacitated, unconscious, underage or otherwise unable to consent to medical treatment;</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(2) no general or natural guardian is immediately available who will consent to the rendering of medical treatment;</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(3) the prompt rendering of medical treatment is necessary in order to deal with a substantial threat to the patient's life or health; and</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(4) the patient has not designated a health care representative or executed a health care instruction directive pursuant to the New Jersey Advance Directives for Health Care Act, N.J.S.A. 26:2H-53 to -78, determining the treatment question in issue.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(b) Venue. The application shall be made to the Superior Court judge assigned to general equity in the vicinage in which the patient is physically located when the application is made and, in the event of that judge's unavailability, to the Assignment Judge of the vicinage or the judge designated as the emergent judge, or if neither is available, any judge in the vicinage.</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 19"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(c) Procedure. The procedure on the application shall conform as nearly as practicable to the requirements of R. 4:86-1 to R. 4:86-6, but the judge may, if the circumstances require, accept an oral complaint and oral testimony either by telephone, in court, or at any other suitable location. If the circumstances do not permit the making of a verbatim record, the judge shall make detailed notes of the allegations of the complaint and the supporting testimony. Whenever possible an attorney shall be appointed to represent the patient.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(d) Order. The order granting the application, if orally rendered, shall be reduced to writing as promptly as possible and shall recite the findings on which it is based.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: 700;">Note: </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">Adopted November 1, 1985 to be effective January 2, 1986; paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of former R. 4:83-12 amended and rule redesignated June 29, 1990 to be effective September 4, 1990; paragraph (a) amended July 14, 1992 to be effective September 1, 1992; paragraph (a)(1) amended July 12, 2002 to be effective September 3, 2002; caption and paragraph (a)(1) amended July 9, 2008 to be effective September 1, 2008.</span></p></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-71740746155079647872022-07-12T16:52:00.010-04:002022-07-12T16:52:50.171-04:00 4:86-11. Appointment of Conservator<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700;">4:86-11. Appointment of Conservator</span></p><div class="page" title="Page 17"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(a) Commencement of Action; Complaint. An action pursuant to N.J.S.A.3B:13A-1, et seq. for the appointment of a conservator shall be brought by a conservatee or other person on his or her behalf on notice, as provided by N.J.S.A. 3B:13A-5 and 6. The complaint shall be filed in the Superior Court and shall state (1) the conservatee's age and residence, (2) the names and addresses of the conservatee's heirs and all other persons entitled to notice pursuant to N.J.S.A. 3B:13A-6 and (3) the nature, location and fair market value of all property, real and personal, in accordance with R. 4:86-2(a).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(b) Hearing. The court, without a jury, shall take testimony in open court to determine whether the conservatee, by reason of advanced age, illness or physical infirmity, is unable to care for or manage his or her property or has become unable to provide for himself or herself or others dependent upon him or her for support. The court</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 18"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">may appoint counsel for the conservatee if it concludes that counsel is necessary to protect his or her interests. If the conservatee is unable to attend the hearing by reason of physical or other disability, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem to conduct an investigation to determine whether the conservatee objects to the conservatorship. If counsel for the conservatee has, however, been appointed, such counsel shall conduct the investigation and no separate guardian ad litem shall be appointed. In no case shall a conservator be appointed if the court finds that the conservatee objects thereto.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(c) Acceptance of Appointment. An acceptance of appointment as conservator may be taken before any person authorized by the laws of this State to administer an oath.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(d) Settlement of Conservator's Account. Where the court, for good cause shown, orders a full accounting by the conservator, the account shall be settled in the Superior Court in accordance with R. 4:87, insofar as applicable.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: 700;">Note: </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">Adopted July 26, 1984 to be effective September 10, 1984; paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of former R. 4:83-11 amended and rule redesignated June 29, 1990 to be effective September 4, 1990.</span></p></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-45079611437856772202022-07-12T16:52:00.006-04:002022-07-12T16:52:31.865-04:00 4:86-10. Appointment of Guardian for Persons Eligible for and/or Receiving Services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700;">4:86-10. Appointment of Guardian for Persons Eligible for and/or Receiving Services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities</span></p><div class="page" title="Page 16"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">An action pursuant to N.J.S.A. 30:4-165.7 et seq. for the appointment of a guardian for a person over the age of 18 who is eligible for and/or receiving services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities shall be brought pursuant to these rules insofar as applicable, except that:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(a) The complaint may be brought by the Commissioner of Human Services or a parent, spouse, relative or other party interested in the welfare of such person.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(b) In lieu of the affidavits or certifications prescribed by R. 4:86-2, the verified complaint shall have annexed thereto two documents. One document shall be an affidavit or certification submitted by a practicing physician or a psychologist licensed pursuant to P.L. 1966, c.282 (N.J.S.A. 45:14B-1 et seq.) who has made a personal examination of the alleged incapacitated person not more than six months prior to the filing of the verified complaint. The other document shall be one of the following: (1) an affidavit or certification from the chief executive officer, medical director or other officer having administrative control over a Division of Developmental Disabilities program from which the individual is receiving functional or other services; (2) an affidavit or certification from a designee of the Division of Developmental Disabilities having personal knowledge of the functional capacity of the individual who is the subject of the guardianship action; (3) a second affidavit or certification from a practicing physician or psychologist licensed pursuant to P.L. 1966, c.282 (N.J.S.A. 45:14B-1 et seq.); (4) a copy of the Individualized Education Program, including any medical or other reports, for the individual who is subject to the guardianship action, which shall have been prepared no more than two years prior to the filing of the verified complaint; or (5) an affidavit or certification from a licensed care professional having personal knowledge of the functional capacity of the individual who</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 17"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">is the subject of the guardianship action. The documents shall set forth with particularity the facts supporting the belief that the alleged incapacitated person suffers from a significant chronic functional impairment to such a degree that the person lacks the cognitive capacity either to make decisions or to communicate, in any way, decisions to others.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(c) If the petition seeks guardianship of the person only, the Division of Mental Health Advocacy, in the Office of the Public Defender, if available, shall be appointed as attorney for the alleged incapacitated person, as required by R. 4:86-4. If the Division of Mental Health Advocacy, in the Office of the Public Defender, is unavailable or if the petition seeks guardianship of the person and the estate, the court shall appoint an attorney to represent the alleged incapacitated person. The attorney for the alleged incapacitated person may where appropriate retain an independent expert to render an opinion respecting the incapacity of the alleged incapacitated person.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(d) The hearing shall be held pursuant to R. 4:86-6 except that a guardian may be summarily appointed if the attorney for the alleged incapacitated person, by affidavit or certification, does not dispute either the need for the guardianship or the fitness of the proposed guardian and if a plenary hearing is not requested either by the alleged incapacitated person or on his or her behalf.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: 700;">Note: </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">Adopted July 7, 1971 to be effective September 13, 1971; amended July 24, 1978 to be effective September 11, 1978. Former rule deleted and new rule adopted November 5, 1986 to be effective January 1, 1987; caption amended and paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) of former R. 4:83-10 amended and rule redesignated June 29, 1990 to be effective September 4, 1990; paragraphs (b) and (c) amended July 14, 1992 to be effective September 1, 1992; paragraph (c) amended June 28, 1996 to be effective September 1, 1996; paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) amended July 12, 2002 to be effective September 3, 2002; paragraph (c) amended July 28, 2004 to be effective September 1, 2004; paragraph (c) amended July 9, 2008 to be effective September 1, 2008; paragraph (c) amended July 22, 2014 to be effective September 1, 2014; caption amended, introductory paragraph and paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) amended August 1, 2016 to be effective September 1, 2016.</span></p></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-62563080187220166972022-07-12T16:52:00.002-04:002022-07-12T16:52:09.044-04:00 4:86-9. Guardians for Incapacitated Persons Under Uniform Veterans Guardianship Law<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700;">4:86-9. Guardians for Incapacitated Persons Under Uniform Veterans Guardianship Law</span></p><div class="page" title="Page 15"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(a) Complaint for Appointment. An action for the appointment of a guardian under N.J.S.A. 3B:13-1 et seq. for an alleged incapacitated person shall be brought in the Superior Court by any person entitled to priority of appointment. If there is no person so entitled or if the person so entitled fails or refuses to commence the action within 30 days after the mailing of notice by a federal agency to the last known address of such person entitled to priority of appointment, indicating the necessity for the appointment, the action may be brought by any person residing in this State, acting on the alleged incapacitated </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">person’s behalf.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(b) Complaint. The complaint shall state (1) the name, age and place of residence of the alleged incapacitated person; (2) the name and place of residence of the nearest relative, if known; (3) the name and address of the person or institution, if any, having custody of the alleged incapacitated person; (4) that such alleged incapacitated person is entitled to receive money payable by or through a federal agency; (5) the amount of money due and the amount of probable future payments; and (6) that the alleged incapacitated person has been rated an incapacitated person on examination by a federal agency in accordance with the laws regulating the same.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(c) Proof of Necessity for Guardian of Incapacitated Person. A certificate by the chief officer, or his or her representative, stating the fact that the alleged incapacitated person has been rated an incapacitated person by a federal agency on examination in accordance with the laws and regulations governing such agency and that appointment is a condition precedent to the payment of money due the alleged incapacitated person by such agency shall be prima facie evidence of the necessity for making an appointment under this rule.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(d) Determination of Incapacity. Incapacity may be determined on the certificates, without other evidence, of two medical officers of the military service, or of a federal agency, certifying that by reason of incapacity the alleged incapacitated person is incapable of managing his or her property, or certifying to such other facts as shall satisfy the court as to such incapacity.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(e) Appointment of Guardian; Bond. Upon proof of notice duly given and a determination of incapacity, the court may appoint a proper person to be the guardian and fix the amount of the bond. The bond shall be in an amount not less than that which will be due or become payable to the incapacitated person in the ensuing year. The court may from time to time require additional security. Before letters of guardianship shall issue, the guardian shall accept the appointment in accordance with R. 4:96-1.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(f) Termination of Guardianship When Incapacitated Person Regains Capacity. If the court has appointed a guardian for the estate of an incapacitated person, it may subsequently, on due notice, declare the incapacitated person to have regained capacity on proof of a finding and determination to that effect by the medical authorities of the military service or federal agency or based on such other facts as shall satisfy the court as to the capacity of the incapacitated person. The court may thereupon discharge the guardian without further proceedings, subject to the settlement of his or her account.</span></p></div></div></div><div class="page" title="Page 16"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(g) Complaint in Action to Have Guardian Receive Additional Personalty. The complaint in an action to authorize the guardian, pursuant to law, to receive personal property from any source other than the United States Government shall set forth the amount of such property and the name and address of the person or institution having actual custody of the incapacitated person.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(h) Definitions. Definitions contained in N.J.S. 3B:13-2 shall apply to the terms of this rule.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: 700;">Note: </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">Source </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">— </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">R.R. 4:102-9(a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h), 4:103-3 (second sentence). Paragraph (a) amended July 22, 1983 to be effective September 12, 1983; paragraph (a) amended July 26, 1984 to be effective September 10, 1984; paragraphs (a) through (f) and (h) of former R. 4:83-9 amended and rule redesignated June 29, 1990 to be effective September 4, 1990; caption amended, paragraphs (a) and (b) amended, paragraphs (c) and (d) captions and text amended, paragraph (e) amended, and paragraph (f) caption and text amended July 12, 2002 to be effective September 3, 2002; paragraphs (a), (b), (e), and (g) amended, and paragraphs (c), (d), and (f) caption and text amended August 1, 2016 to be effective September 1, 2016.</span></p></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-61182553298098068922022-07-12T16:51:00.009-04:002022-07-12T16:51:46.500-04:00 4:86-8. Appointment of Guardian for Nonresident Incapacitated Person<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700;">4:86-8. Appointment of Guardian for Nonresident Incapacitated Person</span></p><div class="page" title="Page 14"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">An action for the appointment of a guardian for a nonresident who has been or shall be found to be an incapacitated person under the laws of the state or jurisdiction in which the incapacitated person resides shall be brought in the Superior Court pursuant to R. 4:67. The plaintiff shall exhibit and file with the court an exemplified copy of the proceedings or other evidence establishing the finding. If the plaintiff is the duly appointed guardian, trustee or committee of the incapacitated person in the state or jurisdiction in which the finding was made, and applies to be appointed guardian in this State, the court may forthwith appoint that person without issuing an order to show cause.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: 700;">Note: </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">Source </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">– </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">R.R. 4:102-8. Amended July 26, 1984 to be effective September 10, 1984; former R. 4:83-8 amended and rule redesignated June 29, 1990 to be effective September 4, 1990; caption and text amended July 12, 2002 to be effective September 3, 2002; caption and text amended July 9, 2008 to be effective September 1, 2008.</span></p></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38695751.post-79473981773593091802022-07-12T16:51:00.005-04:002022-07-12T16:51:24.565-04:00 4:86-7A. Application for Financial Maintenance for Incapacitated Adults Subject to Prior Chancery Division, Family Part Order<p> <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700;">4:86-7A. Application for Financial Maintenance for Incapacitated Adults Subject to Prior Chancery Division, Family Part Order</span></p><div class="page" title="Page 14"><div class="layoutArea"><div class="column"><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">As to a person alleged or adjudicated to be incapacitated as defined in N.J.S.A. 3B:1-2 and who has reached the age of 23, an application for conversion of a child support obligation to another form of financial maintenance pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2A:17-56.67 et seq. may be made as follows:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(a) Prior to Adjudication of Incapacity. A plaintiff filing a complaint for adjudication of incapacity and appointment of guardian pursuant to R. 4:86-2 may request such conversion in a separate count of the complaint.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(b) After Adjudication of Incapacity. A guardian or custodial parent of an adjudicated incapacitated person may request such conversion by filing a motion on notice to the parent responsible for paying child support and any interested parties setting forth the basis for the relief requested pursuant to R. 4:86-7.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(c) Required Materials for Submission. Any action brought pursuant to either paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) shall set forth the exceptional circumstances pursuant to which such conversion to another form of financial maintenance is requested and shall have the following annexed thereto:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(1) Copies of any prior Chancery Division, Family Part orders related to the child support obligation; and</span></p><p><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 12pt;">(2) A financial maintenance statement in such form as promulgated by the Administrative Director of the Courts.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: 700;">Note: </span><span style="font-family: ArialMT; font-size: 10pt;">Adopted July 27, 2018 to be effective September 1, 2018.<br /></span></p></div></div></div>Vercammen Lawhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05005140446459230078noreply@blogger.com