Paul M. Stanton, Esquire

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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Two $25 million oceanfront properties, the most expensive on the public market in the Garden State, could now be yours with cash, financing, or crypto, the digital currency becoming more mainstream.

10/22/2025

Paul obtained a dismissal of a DWI charge for a client charged in the City of Atlantic City.

If you find yourself in legal trouble, do not wait seek help. It is important to have your matter reviewed quickly and thoroughly.

10/02/2025

I understand that every client and transaction is unique. With experience across real estate and business transactions, my firm offers personalized legal solutions to protect your interests and help you achieve your goals.

Real Estate Agreements
Lease Agreements
Business Purchase Agreements
Asset Purchase Agreements
Partnership Agreements
Contractor Agreements
Subcontractor Agreements
Independent Contractor Agreements
Non-Disclosure Agreements
Operating Agreements
and other agreements tailored for the client's specific deal.

[email protected]

07/02/2025

NEW JERSEY "MANSION TAX" AMENDMENT. Consult with your lawyer and tax professional prior to signing listing agreements and contracts for sale.

The Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey has modified N.J.S.A. 46:15-7.2 imposing severe tax implications related to the sale of certain real property in with sales prices exceeding $1,000,000.

This bill modifies the fees and taxes imposed on real property transfers valued over $1,000,000, shifting the responsibility for payment from buyers to sellers and introducing a graduated tax rate based on the property's value.

Specifically, for property transfers over $1,000,000, the bill establishes a tiered tax structure:

1.0% for consideration over $1,000,000 to $2,000,000
2.0% for consideration over $2,000,000 to $2,500,000
2.5% for consideration over $2,500,000 to $3,000,000
3.0% for consideration over $3,000,000 to $3,500,000
3.5% for consideration over $3,500,000 and above.

The bill applies to various types of real property, including residential properties, farm properties with residential structures, cooperative units, and commercial properties.

Additionally, the legislation allows sellers to apply for a refund of additional fees paid in excess of one percent for property transfers recorded on or before November 15, 2025, and executed under a contract before July 10, 2025. The changes are designed to modify the existing tax structure for real property transfers and will take effect immediately, applying to transfers occurring on or after July 10, 2025.

DISCLAIMER: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult with a lawyer.

Read a full text of the statute here:

Modifies payer of additional fees and taxes imposed on certain real property transfers; modifies fees and taxes imposed on property transfers valued over $2 million.

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!