Wills, powers of attorney, and living wills for New Jersey families
Simple estate planning with personal attention
At Erik Mueller Law, we focus on helping clients prepare essential estate documents—wills, powers of attorney, and living wills—without the complexity or cost of large firms. These documents protect your wishes and give peace of mind to your family.
Our Freehold office serves clients throughout Monmouth County, including Marlboro, Manalapan, and Colts Neck. Whether you need a first-time will or an update after life changes, we make the process straightforward and respectful of your goals.
Why every adult needs a will
A will ensures that your assets go where you intend and that guardianship decisions for minor children are legally documented. Without one, New Jersey’s intestacy laws decide who inherits your estate, which may not align with your wishes.
We prepare clear, legally valid wills tailored to your circumstances and compliant with New Jersey statutes. Our office also offers quick updates for existing wills through codicils when minor revisions are needed.
If your estate includes property changes, visit deed transfers and title changes for details on how ownership updates fit within your overall plan.
A power of attorney lets you appoint someone to manage finances or legal matters if you cannot. A living will (or advance healthcare directive) states your wishes for medical care and designates a healthcare proxy.
Our office helps you decide which powers to include and prepares each document properly witnessed and notarized. These forms comply with New Jersey’s Advance Directives for Health Care Act and can prevent court involvement if a crisis arises.
For broader planning context, you can also review New Jersey residential real estate law services if property ownership plays a role in your estate.
Powers of attorney and advance directives
Common questions about wills and directives in NJ
Do I need a lawyer to make a will in New Jersey?
While online forms exist, a lawyer ensures your will meets New Jersey’s execution requirements and actually carries out your intent. We prepare wills that are properly witnessed, signed, and ready for probate if ever needed.
What’s the difference between a will and a living will?
A will directs how assets are distributed after death. A living will applies while you’re alive, specifying medical care preferences if you can’t speak for yourself.
Who should have a power of attorney?
Every adult should have one. It lets someone you trust handle your finances if you’re unavailable or incapacitated. Without it, family members may need court approval to act.
Can I change my will later?
Yes. You can revise your will anytime. We assist with updates after major life events such as marriage, divorce, or a new child.
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Our practice areas.
We approach every legal matter with a broad perspective and a sharp focus, integrating insights across our practice areas to deliver unparalleled results for our clients.
"Stephen is an asset to our company. He skillfully reviews and negotiates multimillion-dollar contracts, he artfully drafts subcontracts and leases, and he has successfully represented us in court and before municipal boards. He is an accomplished lawyer that is always there when we need him. He is our confidant and friend."
Furino & Sons Inc. (Brothers Four)
"It is truly our pleasure to recommend Stephen to any individual or corporation looking for highly skilled legal counsel. He has represented us on a variety of corporate legal matters and he is a master with both contract and lease negotiations, always offering exceptional strategic advice. More recently, he represented us in front of the Township Planning Board and helped us achieve our desired results when it seemed impossible. We highly endorse Stephen both personally and professionally."
HEC Holding Co., LLC
"Stephen has successfully represented our company’s interests in several matters involving intricate fact patterns and novel legal theories. In one, a particularly aggressive plaintiff was convinced by Stephen to voluntarily dismiss a lawsuit in which it sought significant monetary damages. These favorable outcomes have resulted from Stephen’s thorough and careful review of all facts and circumstances and his dedication to the best interests of his client. In every matter in which we have retained Stephen he has sought to obtain the best possible result in the shortest possible time. We recommend Stephen without reservation."
RPM Development Group
What sets your approach apart?
Our attorneys combine academic rigor, industry leadership, and a deep understanding of complex legal landscapes to deliver strategies uniquely tailored to each client.
How do you handle intricate legal challenges?
We thrive on complexity, leveraging decades of experience to uncover solutions others might miss. Every case is approached with precision, diligence, and creativity.
What kind of communication can clients expect?
We prioritize direct and consistent communication, offering clear updates and actionable insights throughout the legal process, so you remain confident and informed.
How do you approach long-term legal partnerships?
We build enduring relationships by aligning with our clients’ long-term objectives, acting as trusted advisors who guide and support through every phase of their ventures.
What can I expect during my consultation?
Your initial consultation will involve an in-depth discussion of your goals and challenges, allowing our attorneys to outline tailored strategies and next steps. See below for a typical process cadence.