Paul M. Stanton, Esquire

06/04/2026

LAND USE: The NJDEP is reportedly delaying implementation of the REAL climate regulations for an additional year while reviewing potential revisions and gathering further stakeholder input. The rules could have significant impacts on development, redevelopment, permitting, flood hazard compliance, and coastal construction throughout New Jersey.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) plans to delay the implementation of the REAL climate change rules, extending the compliance period.

06/03/2026

A signed contract is just the beginning of a real estate transaction. For a closing to occur, title must be marketable and the property must be capable of being conveyed free from unacceptable defects and encumbrances.

One of the most important goals of the due diligence process is to ensure that when you eventually become the seller, you are not discovering hidden issues that should have been identified and addressed when you were the buyer. Title defects, boundary disputes, unpermitted improvements, easement issues, condominium restrictions, and zoning concerns can all create obstacles years after closing if not properly investigated.

BEST PRACTICE. Hire a lawyer.

03/11/2026

The best business deals begin with an agreement tailored to the nature of the transaction.

A well-managed process protects both the deal and the relationship between the parties. Poor drafting creates confusion. Clear drafting creates predictability. Predictability allows deals to close. Confusion causes tension down the road.

Disciplined drafting forces the parties to address expectations, allocate risk, and define responsibilities before problems arise.

BEST PRACTICE: A strong agreement should not simply document the deal; it should also preserve the client’s options if circumstances change after ex*****on.

03/02/2026

Every real estate or business transaction contains emotional gravity. Disciplined professionals reduce emotion and increase clarity.

Emotion, if unmanaged, distorts judgment, and frustrates the goal of completing the deal.

BEST PRACTICE: When conflict arises, shift the discussion from emotion to structure. Ask: “What solution protects both parties and preserves the deal?”

02/27/2026

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02/11/2026

Did you review your title commitment when you purchased real estate?

Reviewing and negotiating title insurance is critically important because the standard title commitment often contains broad exceptions that can materially impair ownership rights, marketability, and future resale value. Exceptions for matters such as unrecorded easements, parties in possession, survey discrepancies, riparian claims, tidelands, municipal liens, or HOA obligations can significantly affect a purchaser’s intended use of the property. A properly negotiated policy shifts risk to the title insurer where it belongs, ensures deletion or modification of inappropriate exceptions, and confirms that the insured receives the full benefit of bargained-for coverage. In short, title insurance is not a boilerplate closing formality in New Jersey, it is a primary risk, allocation tool that must be strategically reviewed and refined before closing.

This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

02/04/2026

Another successful year for Cape May County Mock Trial. Congratulations to Lower Cape May Regional.

11/27/2025

Happy thansksiving to all. Thank you to my firm, clients, and colleagues.

10/30/2025

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05/27/2025

It was quite a day for the legal community of Cape May County as the CMCBA recognized a few of our movers and shakers! From the county Mock Trial champions, community volunteers and foundations to legends of the legal field both past and present, we gathered to honor!