Business Details
39 Years
experience
Trusted Legal Solutions for Estate & Business Planning
Paton Law Firm has provided trusted legal counsel to clients in northern New Jersey for over 30 years. Specializing in estate planning, business law, and real estate, we deliver personalized solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. Our practice combines deep legal expertise with compassionate guidance to help individuals, families, and businesses protect assets and plan for the future. We prioritize clear communication, proactive problem-solving, and cost-effective strategies to minimize legal burdens.With a focus on probate avoidance, trust administration, and commercial transactions, we serve as a reliable partner for clients navigating complex legal matters. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our AV Preeminent peer review rating and decades of satisfied clients across Bergen County and beyond.
Services
Estate Planning
Probate
Wills
Trusts and Estates
Business Law
Real Estate
Elder Law
Medicaid Planning
Asset Preservation
Commercial Transactions
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of legal experience in northern New Jersey
- Personalized counsel for estate, business, and real estate matters
- Free initial consultation with experienced attorney
- Compassionate approach to client's future planning needs
- Proven track record in probate and trust administration
Associations and certifications
- Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent
What people say
Extremely efficient
Very knowledgeable
Compassionate guidance
User friendly
Professional and thoughtful
Services
Estate Planning
Our firm creates comprehensive estate plans to protect assets and ensure proper distribution according to client wishes. We specialize in wills, trusts, and tax minimization strategies for individuals and families across northern New Jersey. Our approach combines legal expertise with personalized guidance to address unique family and financial situations.
Probate
We guide executors through New Jersey's probate process with expertise in will validation, asset inventory, tax compliance, and distribution. Our services ensure efficient estate settlement while minimizing conflicts and preserving asset value for beneficiaries in Bergen and Passaic counties.
Business Law
From business formation to contract negotiation, we provide strategic legal support for companies of all sizes. Our services include entity selection, shareholder agreements, and transactional guidance to help businesses establish strong legal foundations and navigate commercial challenges effectively.
Real Estate
We handle residential and commercial real estate transactions with due diligence in title examination, contract review, and closing processes. Our services protect clients' interests in property purchases, sales, and leasing arrangements across northern New Jersey markets.
Elder Law
Our elder law practice focuses on Medicaid planning, long-term care solutions, and special needs trusts. We help families navigate age-related legal challenges while preserving assets and ensuring quality care for senior clients throughout Bergen County.
People
Kimberly A. Paton
Attorney
With over 30 years of legal experience, Kimberly A. Paton specializes in estate planning, probate, and business law. She provides personalized counsel to northern New Jersey clients, focusing on asset protection and succession planning. Her practice emphasizes compassionate guidance through complex legal matters.
Questions
What estate planning documents are essential for New Jersey residents?
Every New Jersey resident should have a will, advance healthcare directive, and power of attorney. Trusts may be recommended for probate avoidance and tax planning based on individual circumstances.
How does probate work in New Jersey?
New Jersey probate requires filing the will with Surrogate's Court, notifying heirs, inventorying assets, paying debts/taxes, and distributing property. The process typically takes 6-12 months with proper legal guidance.
Can I create a valid will without an attorney?
While possible, DIY wills risk invalidation due to technical errors. Our firm ensures proper execution under NJ law to prevent challenges and guarantee your wishes are honored.
What business entity should I choose for my new company?
Entity selection depends on liability protection, tax considerations, and operational needs. We analyze your specific situation to recommend corporations, LLCs, or partnerships that optimize legal and financial protections.
How can Medicaid planning protect my assets?
Proper Medicaid planning uses irrevocable trusts and gifting strategies to protect assets while qualifying for benefits. Our firm designs compliant solutions that balance long-term care needs with inheritance goals.
What happens if someone dies without a will in New Jersey?
Intestate succession laws determine asset distribution to closest relatives. This often creates delays and unintended outcomes. We help families navigate probate and administer estates according to state law.
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