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 »
Posts Categorized: Probate
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 »
How to Start Estate Planning
Estate planning is an important process that should be considered by everyone at some point in their life. It involves making critical decisions about how your assets will be distributed after you pass away. Many individuals put off estate planning because they believe it is only for the wealthy or elderly, but this is not the case. Regardless of your age, income, or family situation, estate planning is a crucial step in securing your legacy and safeguarding your loved ones. In this article, we will share some helpful tips on how to get started with estate planning. To begin, take inventory of your assets, decide on your beneficiaries, choose an executor, create a will, and consider a trust. By following these steps, you can ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are taken care of. Start estate planning today!
Why Is Probate in MA Problematic? An Estate Lawyer’s Perspective
One of the most complicated aspects of resolving someone’s estate and filing a will is the probate process. Probate occurs in all states throughout the country and involves the appointment of an executor in some places, known as a personal representative, to oversee the distribution of assets. Is an Estate Lawyer Right? Should I Avoid… Read More »
Have You Stressed Tested Your Estate Plan?
An estate plan should be aligned with your goals as of today, but flexible enough to be adaptable in the future. You can start the estate planning process by thinking about the assets you own and the liabilities you would owe when you pass away, but you also need to ask important ‘what if’ questions…. Read More »
Can You Avoid Unnecessary Probate Costs?
After you pass away, your estate will most likely go through a process known as probate. This estate administration process can be time-consuming, very involved for the executor appointed to handle these matters, and costly. It can also be frustrating for your heirs. The good news is that you can usually avoid probate with some… Read More »
What Are Probate Fees in Massachusetts?
When you pass away and a loved one or a family friend is appointed in the role of handling the estate, probate fees might apply. Common fees associated with probate in Massachusetts include probate or administrator bonds, land survey accounting or appraisal fees, services provided by a probate lawyer, if hired, and personal representative compensation…. Read More »