Nicol Bell

Attorney

Nicol is an Elder Law and Estate Planning attorney who helps her clients by developing comprehensive estate plans that include Wills, Powers of Attorney, Advanced Health Care Directives (Living Wills) and Trusts. She also assists with estate administration, guardianships and advises clients on long-term care planning, including Medicaid planning, and helps with filing Medicaid applications. Nicol began her legal career as a family law attorney. She served as a law clerk in Essex County Family Court and went on to practice with a small firm in Jersey City. She then worked briefly as a defense attorney for an insurance company, gaining invaluable litigation experience, before taking a hiatus from private practice.

Nicol transitioned to work in the financial services industry, first as a regulator with NASD (now FINRA) and then as a Compliance Officer for a preeminent, international wealth management firm. She advanced quickly, becoming the Head of Compliance and Operational Risk Training and Education for the Americas region. During her time in financial services, Nicol’s passion for helping seniors and their caretakers bloomed as she counseled and guided many of the elders in her community. That work prompted her to return to the practice of law. Her experiences in Family Law and Financial Services taught Nicol that advanced preparation is key to keeping stress and conflict at a minimum during times of crisis, such as when a loved one becomes incapacitated or passes away. She shares that message with her clients as she takes care to understand their unique circumstances, explain their options and provide the advice and guidance they need to feel empowered to make the best decisions for their families.

Nicol is a lifelong resident of West Orange, where she serves her community as a member of the board of trustees and Tenant Liaison to the John P. Renna Senior Building, and as Vice Chair of the town’s Older Adult Advisory Board. She is also a member of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce and an active member of the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Montclair. When she’s not working or serving others, Nicol enjoys theatre, live music and art exhibits. She also likes to cook and host fun events for her family and friends. Most of all, Nicol loves being a mom to her two wonderful children.

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