Fredrick P. Niemann, Esq. of Hanlon, Niemann & Wright discusses a common estate planning question: whether a motor vehicle can be transferred after the owner’s death without going through probate.
In this brief video, Mr. Niemann explains when probate is required to transfer a vehicle, and highlights the simple steps that can be taken in advance to avoid probate altogether. He discusses options such as joint ownership between spouses or domestic partners, as well as transfer-on-death beneficiary designations, and how these methods allow title to pass directly to the survivor or beneficiary.
Mr. Niemann also outlines what documentation is required by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, including affidavits and death certificates, and explains why no Surrogate or probate court paperwork is needed when these options are properly set up.
This video provides clear, practical guidance in plain language, helping individuals and families plan ahead and simplify the transfer of a motor vehicle after death.
By Fredrick P. Niemann, Esq., a NJ Estate Administration Attorney