N.J. Stat. Ann. § 3B:22-40

Every creditor, whether by simple contract or specialty, and whether or not the heirs or devisees are mentioned therein, shall have and may maintain by virtue of this article an action against the heirs and devisees of his deceased debtor dying seized or possessed of any real or personal property. The heirs or devisees shall be liable to pay the debt by reason of the descent or devise of the real or personal property to them in the manner provided in this article. In all actions creditors shall be preferred as in actions against personal representatives.