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 »
Posts Categorized: Wills
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 »
The Value of Understanding Competency Grounds for Challenging a Will
Any heir or beneficiary has the right to challenge or contest your will. This means that he or she is arguing that there is one reason or another why the will should not be classified as legally valid in a probate sense. An individual coming forward to contest the will has the responsibility of… Read More »
Most Common Tools Used in the Estate Planning Process
If you are finally ready to accomplish your estate planning but you are not sure what strategies or tools you need to help you, there are several common instruments that may be beneficial depending on your individual needs. These include a will, a living trust, a pre-nuptial agreement, a healthcare proxy, a living will, a… Read More »
In Massachusetts, Is My Living Will the Same Thing as a Do-Not-Resuscitate Order?
When preparing for estate planning, it’s easy to become confused by the numerous legal terms involved in this process. Your living will and a Do-Not-Resuscitate order are not the same thing, so read on to identify what makes each one unique. Your living will gives official guidance to an appointed authority agent known as your… Read More »