By: Najla Alexander
Middlesex County officials announced that August is National Make-A-Will Month, during which the Middlesex County Surrogate’s Office is encouraging residents to create or update their Will and other essential estate planning documents.
Preparing these documents before an unexpected life event ensures a person’s wishes are honored, provides clarity to loved ones, and makes navigating legal matters significantly easier during an already difficult time, Middlesex County officials said. 
“Planning for the future is one of the most important gifts we can give the people we love,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios.
“Here in Middlesex County, we are committed to supporting residents through every stage of life — including some of life’s most difficult moments. I commend Surrogate Cortes and her team for the compassionate guidance they provide to families every day.”
“Estate planning isn't just about preparing legal documents — it's about giving families peace of mind,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Claribel A. Azcona-Barber, Chair of the Community Services Committee.
“Our Surrogate’s Office is committed to helping residents understand the probate process before they need it, ensuring they have the information and resources necessary to make an informed decision. Whether attending a Make-a-Will Workshop or accessing the County’s educational material online, residents have the support they need through our Surrogate’s Office.”
Why Having A Will Matters
A Will provides clear legal instructions for how a person's estate should be managed after their death. According to Middlesex County Surrogate Cortes, having one in place can:
-Ensure your wishes are honored by determining how assets and property will be distributed.
-Reduce financial and legal burdens by helping loved ones avoid unnecessary court costs, delays, bonds, tax penalties, asset freezes, and additional legal expenses.
-Allow you to choose your executor, the individual responsible for managing your estate and carrying out your final wishes.
-Name a guardian for minor children, rather than leaving that decision to the courts.
-Help preserve property and other assets by providing clear instructions that can reduce disputes and unnecessary court intervention.
In addition to creating a Will, MCPO officials said, residents are encouraged to prepare an advance directive (living Will).
This document allows an individual to outline their healthcare preferences and designate a healthcare representative to make medical decisions on their behalf if they become unable to communicate their wishes, according to Middlesex County officials.
Free Make-A-Will Workshops
Residents are invited to attend one of the following free educational workshops hosted by the Middlesex County Surrogate's Office:
-Wednesday, August 5: Alexander F. Jankowski Community Center in Perth Amboy | 10:30–11:30 a.m. (Bilingual Workshop)
-Thursday, August 6: East Brunswick Senior Center | 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
-Tuesday, August 18: Piscataway Senior Citizen Center | 10–11 a.m.
-Wednesday, August 19: Old Bridge Senior Center | 9:30–10:30 a.m.
-Wednesday, August 19: Monroe Township Senior Center | 1–2 p.m.
-Wednesday, August 26: Edison Senior Citizen Center | 10:30–11:30 a.m.
-Tuesday, October 13: Acacia Youth Center in Woodbridge Township | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Understanding The Surrogate's Office and Probate
When someone passes away, their estate typically enters the legal process known as probate, which is administered through the Surrogate's Court in the county where the individual resided at the time of their death, Middlesex County officials say.
The Middlesex County Surrogate serves as the judge of the Surrogate's Court, assisting residents with the probate of Wills and the appointment of estate administrators when no Will exists, and providing information about the estate administration process, MCPO officials said.
Although the Surrogate's Court oversees the probate process after a person's death, the most important steps take place beforehand.
According to Middlesex County officials, to help residents prepare, the Middlesex County Surrogate's Office offers a variety of estate-planning and educational resources, including the Personal Record Booklet, Wills and Estates Booklet, Advance Directive Booklet, and Living Will Booklet.
While these resources provide valuable information, residents are encouraged to consult a qualified estate planning attorney to ensure their Will is properly drafted and executed and complies with New Jersey law, MCPO officials said.
For more information on the Middlesex County Office of the Surrogate, the probate process, upcoming workshops, and estate planning resources, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/surrogate.
Organizations interested in scheduling a presentation or workshop with Middlesex County Surrogate Cortes may contact the office directly at 732-745-3055.