New Jersey § 3a:38a-5

Full text of New Jersey New Jersey Statutes § 3a:38a-5, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3a:38a-5.

a. The surviving spouse may elect to take his elective share in the augmented estate

by filing in the Superior Court in the county in which the personal representative

was appointed a complaint in an action applying for the elective share, within 6 months

after the appointment of a personal representative. Before the time for election has expired, the court may for good cause shown by

the surviving spouse extend the time for election upon notice to persons interested

in the estate and to distributees and recipients of portions of the augmented estate

whose interests will be adversely affected by the taking of the elective share. b. The surviving spouse shall give notice of the time and place set for hearing to

persons interested in the estate and to the distributees and recipients of portions

of the augmented estate whose interests will be adversely affected by the taking of

the elective share. c. The surviving spouse may withdraw his demand for an elective share at any time

before entry of a final determination by the court. d. After notice and hearing, the court shall determine the amount of the elective

share and shall order its payment from the assets of the augmented estate or by contribution

as appears appropriate under section 7. of this act. If it appears that a fund or property included in the augmented estate has not come

into the possession of the personal representative, or has been distributed by the

personal representative, the court nevertheless shall fix the liability of any person

who has any interest in the fund or property or who has possession thereof, whether

as trustee or otherwise. The proceeding may be maintained against fewer than all persons against whom relief

could be sought, but no person is subject to contribution in any greater amount than

he would have been if relief had been secured against all persons subject to contribution. e. The order or judgment of the court may be enforced as other judgments are enforced

by law.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey § 3a:38a-5

What does New Jersey Statutes § 3a:38a-5 cover?

Section 3a:38a-5 is part of the New Jersey Statutes, the codified statutory law of New Jersey. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite New Jersey § 3a:38a-5?

A common citation format is "New Jersey Statutes § 3a:38a-5" (New Jersey). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of New Jersey law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Jersey official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Jersey attorney.

How does New Jersey § 3a:38a-5 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Jersey can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Jersey.