What is Probate

Probate is the Court process which oversees the administration of a decedent's estate. Probate in Massachusetts takes a minimum of a year to complete, it is a public process, and can be expensive in terms of legal fees and Court costs.

Navigating this process after losing a loved one can be overwhelming. We work closely with you from the first Petition to the Final Account and distribution to beneficiaries.

How does The Probate Process Work

• The first step in the probate process is filing the Will and initial Petition with the Court
• Notice must be sent to all interested persons and MassHealth, and published in the newspaper
• Once the Personal Representative (formerly known as the Executor) is appointed, assets must be gathered and inventoried.
• Any debts must be organized by priority, including any estate taxes and MassHealth claims
• Final documents must be sent to the beneficiaries and Probate Court before any distributions can be made

Guidance and simplifying the Probate Process

Most people require the help of a probate attorney to navigate this process. When working with a loved one on the probate of an estate, we will:

• Determine the validity of the Will
• Draft and file all necessary court documents, publications, and notices
• Communicate with the interested parties and beneficiaries
• Collect assets and work with financial institutions and advisors
• Communicate and work with MassHealth and other creditors
• Work with realtors and brokers to sell or transfer any real estate
• Draft and file any estate tax returns
• Work with beneficiaries and make distributions
• File necessary closing documents