ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

I had to probate a will using an MPC-170 form (Voluntary Administration Statement) and there was $115.00 fee, which I just couldn’t afford to pay, not without depriving myself of the necessities food, clothing, shelter, or paying related bills. The clerk specifically said that I could not file an Affidavit of Indigency for probating a will and could not waive the fee. I had no choice, I had to pay the fee. Now I have to decide what I’m going to do without this month, which bill I’m not going to pay. Is this right or am I being screwed over here?

ATTORNEY ANSWER BY MARGARET L. CROSS BELIVEAU:

There is no waiving of the probate fee for indigency. The good news is that under a Voluntary Administration, you should be appointed as personal representative within a couple of weeks. You are entitled to reimburse yourself for the expenses.

Legal Disclaimer: Please note that this answer does not constitute legal advice, and should not be relied on since each situation is fact specific, and it is impossible to evaluate a legal problem without a comprehensive consultation and review of all the facts and documents at issue. This answer does not create an attorney-client relationship. A lawyer experienced in the subject area and licensed to practice in the jurisdiction should be consulted for legal advice.

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The estate administration attorneys at the Beliveau Law Group provides legal services for probate, estate administration, and trust administration. The law firm has offices and attorneys in Naples, Florida; Waltham, Massachusetts; and Salem, New Hampshire.