ARTICLES

AllAnnouncementsMedicaid PlanningWills, Trusts, and Estate PlanningCrisis PlanningGuardian and ConservatorsLong Term PlanningProbate and Estate Adminstration
Protecting Your Home from a Massachusetts Medicaid Lien

Protecting Your Home from a Massachusetts Medicaid Lien

For many Massachusetts residents, their home represents their most valuable asset and a legacy they hope to pass on to future generations. However, when applying for Massachusetts’ Medicaid program (MassHealth) to cover long-term care costs, many are surprised to learn that their home may be at risk due to a potential MassHealth’s lien or estate...
The Significance of Estate Planning in the LGBTQIA+ Community

The Significance of Estate Planning in the LGBTQIA+ Community

Estate planning is crucial for everyone, but for members of the LGBTQ+ community, it carries additional significance and complexity. Despite important legal victories like marriage equality, many LGBTQ+ individuals and couples still face unique challenges when it comes to protecting their assets, healthcare decisions, and ensuring their wishes are respected. Why Estate Planning Is Particularly...
Health Care Proxy vs. HIPAA Authorization

Health Care Proxy vs. HIPAA Authorization

When preparing an estate plan, we recommend that clients execute both a Health Care Proxy and an Authorization for Release of Protected Health Information (a “HIPAA Authorization”). While there is some overlap between the two, it is important to understand the purpose of each document and how and when they can be used. Example Joan...
The Role of Medical Certificates in Guardianship and Conservatorship Petitions

The Role of Medical Certificates in Guardianship and Conservatorship Petitions

Guardianship and conservatorship involve removing fundamental rights from an individual—the right to make decisions about one’s own healthcare, living arrangements, and/or financial affairs. Courts do not take these petitions lightly and require substantial evidence that such intervention is necessary. What a Medical Certificate is When a client contacts us regarding a guardianship and/or conservatorship for...
Revocable Trusts Are for Everyone

Revocable Trusts Are for Everyone

When most people hear the term “trust,” they immediately picture wealthy families with vast estates and complex financial portfolios. This common misconception leads many to dismiss trusts as irrelevant to their own financial planning. However, revocable living trusts offer significant benefits for people across all income levels and life situations. What Is a Revocable Trust?...
Massachusetts ADU Law: A New Avenue for Generational Living

Massachusetts ADU Law: A New Avenue for Generational Living

Massachusetts recently passed legislation regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), creating new opportunities for homeowners and families across the state. This change represents a significant shift in housing policy that could help address multiple challenges facing communities today. What Are ADUs and What Does the New Law Allow? Accessory Dwelling Units, commonly known as ADUs, are...
The Corporate Transparency Act: What You Need to Know About BOI Reporting

The Corporate Transparency Act: What You Need to Know About BOI Reporting

While enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting has been suspended since December 2024, a February 18, 2025 decision by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas allows the reporting requirements to again be in effect. Business owners must understand and comply with the CTA...
The Durable Power of Attorney with Immediate Effect

The Durable Power of Attorney with Immediate Effect

A durable power of attorney (DPOA) that takes effect immediately is a vital estate planning tool that grants someone legal authority to act on your behalf while you’re still alive. Unlike a springing power of attorney that only activates upon incapacity, an immediate DPOA becomes effective as soon as you sign it. Key Features An...
Where Do I Store My Legal Documents?

When thinking about where to store your important legal documents, a lot of people’s first thoughts are, “I’ll put them in my safe deposit box!” Though that is a good place to safely store some items, safe deposit boxes are not usually a good place for your legal documents. Safe deposit boxes are only accessible...