May 3, 2016

Although there are many assets exposed to creditors if you do not engage in the process of asset protection planning. Federal laws do protect particular assets. For example, a qualified retirement plan governed by ERISA, such as a 401(k), is protected. These are mostly out of reach to creditors except in a few select circumstances. State laws may also protect various assets as well. The majority of states do protect traditional individual retirement accounts.

Many individuals may also use a life insurance policy to help protect them from potential creditor claims. This allows you to also have the peace of mind that there will be finds left behind for your loved ones in the event that something happens to you. Although there are select circumstances in which some of your assets may be protected from creditors if you take no action, it is strongly recommended that you consult with an experienced asset protection planning attorney to protect as much of your estate as possible. It can be an unpleasant surprise for a lawsuit to arise and to have all of your personal assets potentially attached to this.

Having an asset protection planning attorney is vital to long-term success because you need to be able to mitigate risk at any given time. A long-term approach to asset protection requires regular review so that you can prevent problems before they happen. Even though some of your assets may be shielded already, this does not mean you are fully protected. Contact a New Jersey asset protection planning attorney to learn more.