ARTICLES

Understanding a License to Sell in Massachusetts

Understanding a License to Sell in Massachusetts

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...
Court-Appointed Counsel in Massachusetts Adult Guardianship and Conservatorship Cases

Court-Appointed Counsel in Massachusetts Adult Guardianship and Conservatorship Cases

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...
Transferring Money to a Disabled Child in Massachusetts: Why Careful Planning Matters

Transferring Money to a Disabled Child in Massachusetts: Why Careful Planning Matters

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....
New Rule on the 5-Year Look-Back Period for MassHealth: What Massachusetts Families Need to Know

New Rule on the 5-Year Look-Back Period for MassHealth: What Massachusetts Families Need to Know

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...
When Your Child’s IEP Is Not Working: Should You Hire a Special Education Advocate or Attorney?

When Your Child’s IEP Is Not Working: Should You Hire a Special Education Advocate or Attorney?

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...
Back to School: Is Your Child’s IEP Ready for a Successful Year?

Back to School: Is Your Child’s IEP Ready for a Successful Year?

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...
Understanding Competency Documents: A Simple Guide

Understanding Competency Documents: A Simple Guide

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...
Probate Closing in Massachusetts: Understanding Your Options

Probate Closing in Massachusetts: Understanding Your Options

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...