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

1. Revocable Living Trust

Transferring property into a trust allows it to pass directly to beneficiaries without court involvement. Homeowners in Brimfield, Brookline, or Wellesley often use this method.

2. Joint Ownership

Assets titled with “rights of survivorship” automatically transfer to the co-owner upon death and may be appropriate, especially if a trust is not the right option for a person. This is common among married couples in Longmeadow and Dover.

3. Beneficiary Designations

Retirement accounts, life insurance, and payable-on-death bank accounts pass outside probate when beneficiaries are properly named.

The Importance of Coordination When It Comes To Probate

To work properly, all assets must be titled consistently. An attorney familiar with estate planning in Central Massachusetts and the Pioneer Valley can ensure nothing is overlooked.

The Result Of A Having A Well-Planned Estate 

A well-planned estate often bypasses probate entirely, sparing families in Hampden or Tolland from unnecessary court stress.

Start your plan to keep your family out of probate court — call (508) 202-1818 to speak with an experienced estate planning attorney today.