Metro West Boston Probate Lawyer
Compassionate Probate Representation Across 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 challenging 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 use to navigate the lengthy and often frustrating legal process after a person dies. We pride ourselves on guiding clients throughout Metro West Boston through probate, inheritance, trust, and tax matters.
Call Marsden Law P.C. today at (800) 828-7854 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our probate attorney in Metro West Boston!
Understanding Probate: What You Need to Know
After a person dies, their assets must go through a court-supervised process known as probate. The court distributes the decedent's assets to their heirs during this process. The entire probate process can take at least nine months. The court also charges fees worth roughly 3% of the estate's value to the executor and 3% to the executor's attorney.
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 by the will or the orders of the probate judge
Probate Requirements: Estate Value Threshold in Massachusetts
An estate must be worth over $25,000 to go to probate. If it is worth less than that and does not include real property, it goes through "voluntary administration," a limited version of probate.
Exploring the Probate Process: With or 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, without a will, the beneficiaries will inherit the assets according to Massachusetts laws. An administrator is also chosen to oversee the process and ensure the assets are distributed properly and in a timely manner.
If you are wondering your options for the probate process, do not hesitate to contact the Metro West Boston probate attorneys at Marsden Law P.C.
Related Reading: Guide to Probate: What To Do When A Family Member Dies
Protecting Your Assets: Essential Strategies
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
- 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
Timeline of Probate: How Long Does It Take in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the 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 two years to complete. The factors determining the length of probate include the court and the IRS's roles in closing the estate. Having a probate attorney on your side through this process is crucial to ensuring it goes smoothly and efficiently. The Metro West Boston probate attorneys at Marsden Law P.C.
Informal Probate: A Faster Alternative in Massachusetts
A magistrate, not a judge, handles an informal probate. There are no hearings. It is a simple, straightforward, expedited process that 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 how 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 consultation with our Metro West Boston probate lawyer.
Why Clients Love Us
Reviews & Testimonials
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Giving a huge shoutout to Holliston's local Marsden Law P.C., who came to our rescue on an estate matter earlier this week amidst the holiday crunch. If you're looking for a professional, personable, patient, down-to-earth firm to guide you through important decisions, call Marsden Law P.C. We've used their legal services multiple times. They are top-notch!- Mary C.
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- Brian O.
My family and I are just starting the Medicaid application process for our Mom, who is now on Long Term Care. Marsden Law is handling all of this for us. After our first meeting with Jay, we went away with a much clearer understanding of how we need to proceed to take care of all of our Mom’s future financial needs. Jay took the time to explain everything in great detail and made it easy for us to understand what we need to do going forward. Applying for Medicaid is an overwhelming process, to say the least, and we have the utmost confidence in Jay and his team, that they will be there for us, through the entire process. I highly recommend Marsden Law for anyone dealing with the financial (and emotional) needs of caring for an elder parent.
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My family and I have had a relationship with Marsden Law P.C. for nearly 15 years, and they have never let us down. Excellent service, legal advice offered in a way we can understand, and they have really earned our trust. I would recommend Marsden Law to any of my friends.- Bob W.
Standing Apart From the Rest
Why Choose Marsden Law
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Responsive to Clients' Needs
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Free Initial Case Consultations
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Over 15+ Years of Experience
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Simplify Complex Legal Matters
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One-Time Flat Fee for Life Pricing
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.