When a person passes away owning real estate, selling the property is not always as simple as listing it on the market. In some Massachusetts probate cases, the Personal Representative (formerly known as an executor or administrator) must first obtain a License to Sell from the Probate and Family Court before the property can be...
In Massachusetts, a guardianship case concerns certain personal or health-care decisions, while a conservatorship case concerns property or financial matters. If someone has filed a guardianship or conservatorship petition involving you or a family member, you may wonder whether the court will appoint an attorney for the respondent, the person who is the subject of...
Providing financial support to a disabled child is one of the most meaningful ways families can help ensure long-term stability and quality of life. Whether it’s a birthday gift, financial assistance with living expenses, or a contribution toward future needs, many parents and grandparents assume they can simply transfer money directly to their loved one....
For years, Massachusetts residents applying for nursing home MassHealth benefits have been subject to a five-year financial review known as the “look-back period.” Now, MassHealth is expanding that requirement to additional long-term care programs, creating an important change for seniors and families planning for future care. What Is the MassHealth 5-Year Look-Back Period? The MassHealth...
For many parents, navigating special education can feel overwhelming. Understanding the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Massachusetts special education law, IEP meetings, evaluations, and school procedures can quickly become confusing. When questions or concerns come up, parents often know they need support but are unsure whether they should work with a...
By Lisa Paige, Esq. Summer often feels like it goes by in the blink of an eye. Before families know it, backpacks are packed, classrooms are assigned, and a new school year begins. For children with IEPs and their families, the start of school can bring excitement, but it can also bring questions. Will my...
When people need to prove they are mentally or physically capable of making decisions, working, or handling certain responsibilities, competency documents come into play. These forms are commonly used in healthcare, legal, and workplace settings. Below is a simple overview of the most common ones and when they are used. 1. Letter of Competency What...
Closing a probate estate in Massachusetts is the final milestone in settling a loved one’s affairs. It’s the point when the court acknowledges that debts have been handled, assets have been distributed, and the personal representative’s work is complete. But in Massachusetts, not every estate closes the same way. The court offers several different methods...
Naming a charity as the beneficiary of your IRA can be one of the most tax‑efficient ways to support a cause you care about. It’s a simple change on a beneficiary form, but it can dramatically reduce taxes and increase what ultimately goes to your heirs and your favorite organizations. Why IRAs Are “Tax-Heavy” for...
Many people assume their trust should be the beneficiary of all assets, including IRAs. But retirement accounts are different, and naming a trust as your IRA beneficiary can sometimes create unexpected tax problems. The Main Tradeoff Naming individuals directly as IRA beneficiaries is often more tax efficient. Naming a trust can provide better protection and...
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