The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court’s recent ruling in the case Ciani v. McGrath, highlights an important issue regarding updating a will when the creator fails to update a years-old document. In that particular case, a now-deceased individual had married a second time after his first wife had passed away. However, the original will, which provided… Read More »
Posts Categorized: Wills
How is a Living Will in Massachusetts Different from My Will?
As with all states, living in Massachusetts means you must be aware of relevant state and federal laws that influence how you pass on assets to your loved ones. Having an established relationship with a Massachusetts estate planning lawyer can help you understand how to create a plan that addresses your own needs while remaining… Read More »
Half of Americans Still Don’t Have A Will- Are You One of Them?
Have you put off sitting down with a Natick estate planning lawyer because you don’t want to think about it or don’t think you need one? You’re not alone- plenty of people in Massachusetts and around the country don’t have this basic estate planning tool in place. Merrill Lynch and Age Wave recently published the… Read More »
Do I Need a Power of Attorney and a Last Will?
If you’ve spoken to any estate planning attorney or started research of your own, there’s a good chance that you’ve uncovered these two basic tools: a power of attorney and a last will. Together, these documents form the foundation for your overall estate plan. However, they do not accomplish the same goals and a comprehensive… Read More »
Do You Have Your Most Important Papers Protected?
The news has been filled with plenty of stories about devastating and tragic events that have forced people out of their homes suddenly. This is why it’s so important for everyone to have a plan for how they will access their important documents and information if they are suddenly forced out of the home and… Read More »
What Are a Will Executor’s Responsibilities in Massachusetts?
Since your will’s Personal Representative (formerly known as an Executor) holds an important position in the distribution of your estate, you need to put careful thought into the selection of this agent. If a will submitted to probate court names an Personal Representative, the court awards that person “letters testamentary.” This is the official paperwork… Read More »
Does It Matter Who Witnesses My Will Signing?
While an individual can write his or her own will, it’s far too easy for mistakes to be made that could lead to loved ones paying the price after you have passed away. While we personally suggest that an individual retain a knowledgeable attorney to prepare their will so that the will is drafted and… Read More »
Understanding Powers of Attorney and Wills for Estate Planning Purposes
Most people fall into the camp of experiencing many different misconceptions about powers of attorney and wills. Many people think that will planning or estate planning is something that only the elderly should do and might not necessarily be for a younger couple or a single individual. However, anyone who has loved ones or who… Read More »
Passing Away Without a Will Sets Up Problems for Your Loved Ones
You may assume that you don’t need a will or that your future involving estate planning is far off or simply unnecessary because you don’t have enough assets, but far too few adults in the United States have a will in comparison with the number of people who should. Dying without a will can pose… Read More »
History of Needham: Film Screening and Panel Discussion
The decision to move into a senior living community is a big step for retirees and their families. Get the answers you’re looking for from our panel of experts specializing in senior services. This event, will consist of a short film screening and panel discussion to follow. Our panel of experts includes: Audrey Zabin, M.ED.,… Read More »