Metro West Boston Probate Attorney

Choose An Experienced Team in Massachusetts

Our compassionate team at Marsden Law P.C. is familiar with the emotions that are associated with the loss of a loved one. We know that the grieving process can make it difficult to deal with any legal matter that may result from a loved one’s death. That is why we provide a wide range of probate administration services that clients can take advantage of to navigate the lengthy and often frustrating legal process that occurs after a person dies. We pride ourselves on guiding clients throughout Metro West Boston through probate, inheritance, trust, and tax matters. 

To learn more about our professional, sensitive, and cost-effective legal services, give us a call today at (800) 828-7854 to request your free consultation.

What Is Probate & When Is Probate Required?

After a person dies, their assets must go through a court-supervised process known as probate. During this process, the court distributes the decedent’s assets to their heirs. The entire probate process can take at least nine months. The court also charges fees worth roughly 3% of the value of the estate to the executor and 3% to the attorney representing the executor.

The court will do the following things when your estate goes to probate:

• Determine if there is a valid will
• Complete an inventory of all your property and assets
• Appraise your property and assets
• Distribute your property in accordance with the will or the orders of the probate judge

How Much Does An Estate Have To Be Worth To Go To Probate In Massachusetts?

An estate must be worth over $25,000 to go to probate. If the estate is worth less than that and does not include any real property, then the estate goes through “voluntary administration” which is a limited version of probate.

The Probate Process With/Without a Will

The probate process can be less perplexing and quicker if the descendant created a last will/testament before their passing. The probate process will follow the instructions and wishes listed in the document.

However, if there is no will, the beneficiaries will inherit the assets according to Massachusetts laws. To oversee the process and ensure the assets are distributed properly and in a timely manner, an administrator is also chosen.

If you are wondering what your options are for the probate process, do not hesitate to contact the Metro West Boston probate attorneys at Marsden Law P.C.

• Related: Guide to Probate: What To Do When A Family Member Dies

What Strategies Can I Use to Protect My Assets in Probate?

Do you worry that your family won’t be able to obtain the property you leave behind if it goes through probate?

Then consult with our skilled legal team so we can discuss how the following estate planning tools can help protect your wealth:

• Living trusts
• Last will and testament
• Transfer-on-death deeds for real estate
• Transfer-on-death registration for vehicles
• Transfer-on-death registration for securities
• Payable-on-death designations for your bank accounts

Related Reading

• Protecting Your Assets From Probate And Nursing Home Costs

How Long Does Probate Take in Massachusetts?

In the state of Massachusetts, the duration of probate process can take as quickly as nine months. It all depends on the complexity of the estate and the case. Usually, it will take around a year to a year to two years to complete.

The factors that determine the length of probate include both the court and the IRS’s roles in closing the estate.

It is crucial to have a probate attorney on your side through this process to make sure it is going smoothly and as efficient as possible. The Metro West Boston probate attorneys at Marsden Law P.C. are here to help guide you through the process. Call us at (800) 828-7854 for a free consultation.

How Long Does Informal Probate Take in Massachusetts?

An informal probate is handled by a magistrate, not a judge. There are no hearings. It is a simple, straightforward, expedited process. The entire process can be completed in as little as seven days after a loved one’s death.

While we know that every probate, inheritance, trust, and tax situation is unique, our primary goal will always be to protect your interests and relieve the legal burden that follows when a loved one passes away. If you have more questions about the different ways you can prepare your estate for the probate process, please reach out to our probate team at Marsden Law, P.C. so we can get together and assess your situation.

Call (800) 828-7854 or contact us online to schedule a free case consultation with our dedicated legal team.