Why People Want to Avoid Probate Probate can be lengthy, public and expensive. Estates in Boston or Northampton often spend months waiting for court approval before heirs can access assets. Avoiding probate saves time, money, and privacy. Probate Avoidance Strategies That Work Revocable Living Trust Transferring property into a trust allows it to pass directly… Read More »
Posts Categorized: Probate
What Happens If I Die Without a Will in Massachusetts?
Intestacy Explained When someone in Massachusetts dies without a will, the estate is distributed under intestacy laws. The Probate and Family Court in your county—whether in Boston, Central Massachusetts, or the Pioneer Valley—follows a strict order of heirs. Who Inherits If you are married with children from different relationships, your spouse and children share the… Read More »
How Does Probate Work In Massachusetts?
The probate process in Massachusetts is a court-supervised procedure for transferring a deceased individual’s assets to their heirs or beneficiaries and settling any remaining debts. While probate is a necessary legal process, it can be time-consuming, costly, and often becomes a public matter. However, there are ways to structure an estate to minimize or altogether… Read More »
Timing Matters: The Best Age to Start Estate Planning in Massachusetts
Estate planning is a crucial financial and legal process that provides peace of mind, ensures the orderly distribution of assets, and minimizes potential complications for heirs. However, many people in Massachusetts often wonder when the ideal time is to embark on estate planning. This article will discuss the best age to start estate planning in… Read More »
How Do I Fufill My Duties As A Personal Representative in Massachusetts?
Being named the personal representative (also called an executor) of an estate in Massachusetts is both an honor and a responsibility. It means someone has entrusted you with the important task of managing their affairs after they pass away. While it can be daunting, understanding your duties and responsibilities as a personal representative can help… Read More »
What Is The Difference Between Dying Intestate vs. Testate in Massachusetts?
Planning for the inevitable is a crucial aspect of life, and estate planning plays a pivotal role in ensuring your assets are distributed per your wishes after your passing. In Massachusetts, as in many other states, individuals have two primary options for managing their estate: dying intestate (without a will) or testate (with a will)…. Read More »
A Guide to Understanding Probate in Massachusetts
Probate is the legal process through which a person’s estate is administered, and their assets are distributed in accordance with the law. Probate can be a complicated and lengthy procedure, but understanding how it works can help you navigate it more effectively. In this article, we will provide you with a guide on how probate… Read More »
Timing Matters: The Best Age to Start Estate Planning in Massachusetts
Estate planning is a crucial financial and legal process that provides peace of mind, ensures the orderly distribution of assets, and minimizes potential complications for heirs. However, many people in Massachusetts often wonder when the ideal time is to embark on estate planning. This article will discuss the best age to start estate planning in… Read More »
Massachusetts Replaces “Executor” with “Personal Representative” in Probate Terminology
In the world of estate planning and probate, terminologies can carry significant legal weight. In Massachusetts, a notable shift has occurred in recent years. The term “Executor” has been replaced with the more encompassing term “Personal Representative.” Let’s explore this change and what it means for those involved in estate matters in the Bay State…. Read More »
Navigating Probate: Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Introduction Probate is a legal process that ensures the orderly distribution of a deceased person’s assets and settlement of their debts. While it’s designed to be a structured and fair system, common probate pitfalls can complicate matters for heirs and executors alike. In this article, we’ll explore some of these challenges and offer insights on… Read More »