How To Avoid Probate
As estate planning attorneys, one of the most common questions we’re often asked is, “How can I avoid probate?” Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person’s estate, and it can be time-consuming and costly. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid probate and ensure that your assets are distributed according to your […]
Does a Revocable Trust Protect My Home from Nursing Home Expenses?
A common question from many Massachusetts homeowners is does my revocable Trust protect my home from potential nursing home and long-term care expenses? While a revocable Trust offers many advantages, protecting your home from nursing home expenses is not one of them. In this article, we will discuss the definition of a revocable Trust, examples […]
Disclaiming An Inheritance in Massachusetts
Disclaiming an inheritance is a legal process by which an individual chooses to renounce their right to inherit property or assets left to them by a deceased person. In the state of Massachusetts, disclaiming an inheritance can be a useful tool for those who wish to avoid the legal and financial obligations that come with […]
Life estate Question
My parents have a life estate set up for their home and cottage naming my brother and I remainder beneficiaries since Aug 2013. We are currently wondering if we remove my name from one estate and his name from the other estate, does that have consequences for the Medicaid look back dates, starting the 60 […]
Am I a victim of elder abuse?
I have been on disability for 22 years. My father told me I did not need to file my taxes. I filed my taxes this year because I have a six-year-old who I’ve never claimed and I claimed myself and her, And my father would like me to amend my tax return. He has tried […]
Can I still inherit my mother’s home if she sold it to my brother before her death?
My mother sold my childhood home to my brother for $1 to avoid losing her home if she went into a nursing home. She claims that there was a contingency that the home would be left to all four of her children upon her death and that it is in her will. Is that even […]
What Is Required For A Will to Be Legally Binding And Enforceable?
What Makes a Will Legally Binding and Enforceable? For all the stories about great ideas or works of literature starting out as notes scribbled on a napkin, it is not advisable you do the same for your last will and testament. Making your last wishes known requires deliberation, preparation, and a final document of indisputable […]
Will I have to have an Executor form notarized again if the Notary Public commissioned date has expired?
Expired Notary Public commissioned date. ANSWER BY MARGARET CROSS-BELIVEAU: The notary must be current at the time of the notarization. If it isn’t, then it is the same as it not being notarized. Sorry, you’ll have to have it done again. Follow us on Facebook Follow us on LinkedIn Legal Disclaimer: Please note that this […]
Do I have to go through probate to sell my deceased mom’s mobile home ?
I am trying to sell her home and was told by the realtor that I had to go through probate. I am in her will ANSWER BY MARGARET CROSS-BELIVEAU: The realtor is correct. A will doesn’t avoid probate, it just directs where the deceased’s assets are to go after death during the probate process. Follow […]
Can I get a mortgage if I own property with my two sisters?
My sisters and I own 16 acres in Pennsylvania that was willed to us by our grandfather. I am the majority owner holding 65%. I am currently living in a trailer on the property and pay 100% of the property taxes. The trailer is not in great shape and I am looking to purchase a […]
