Salem Massachusetts Estate Planning Law Blog
What happens if a person dies without a will?
Like other states, Massachusetts has laws which determine how an estate gets distributed when someone dies without a will. These laws also apply when a person has a will, but the will is deemed invalid under the laws of this state. In some cases, a will may be valid...
Working through the probate process in Massachusetts
The death of a close friend or loved one can be a difficult time for any Massachusetts resident. However, what if the deceased person named you as the personal representative of the estate in his or her will? Many people may think that things just got even harder due...
A Discussion of Special Needs Trusts
Depending upon the types of disabilities or needs that a person faces an individual may be able to secure certain financial benefits from the federal government. For example, when an individual has a disease or ailment that prevents them from working and that is...
What is the difference in a living will and a last will and testament?
If you have ever found yourself being admitted to a hospital, or in any other situation that involves triage, you have likely been asked whether or not you have a living will. It is probably safe to say that a great majority of people do not know that a living will is...
Avoid these estate planning mistakes
An effective estate plan helps assure that your wishes are carried out after your death. But proper estate planning is ongoing and common errors should be avoided. No plan A basic estate plan includes a will which contains specific information on who receives assets,...
Legally spend down resources for Medicaid eligibility
As the cost of nursing home increases, many Salem residents may find themselves worrying about how they will cover the cost of long-term care. As they turn towards Medicaid, it is important to keep in mind that it is a means-tested program that depends on one’s...
I’m single, young and have no kids – do I need an estate plan?
It is a right of passage for young adults in Salem to fly the proverbial nest and make their way in the world. Many young adults take advantage of this time in life to focus on their careers and engage in hobbies and travel. Their future is exciting. However, does a...
How can trusts be used in Medicaid planning?
Many people in Massachusetts plan on using Medicaid as a means for paying for long-term care when they age. However, what they may not know is that Medicaid is a means-tested program, and funds won’t be paid out unless a person’s assets and income are below a very low...
A brief look at ancillary probate
Although the probate process can be simplified or foregone altogether, in some cases it can be enormously complex. In some instances, for example, individuals own property in multiple states. Since property generally must be probated in the state where it physically...
Estate administration and the fiduciary duty
On its face, estate administration seems rather simple. After all, it is merely the process of handling an estate, ensuring that assets and debts are handled in accordance with estate planning documents and in compliance with the law. Yet, oftentimes disputes arise...
