I am sorry to hear of the loss of your friend. Please be aware that 2 months is not a very long time in probate. Although in Massachusetts the...

Moving is especially traumatic for Alzheimer's patients. There is also the question of the availability of medical care. Do they have any medical...

Do I need to go through probate?

You got some good answers here. The only thing I would add is that you should write to your brother and tell him exactly what money is left and...

Don't worry about what she has "threatened." These decisions are made by the judge, not the parties. You need a lawyer - a so-called "Family...

Question pertaining to Trust vs Estate

Legally, that would depend on who the client was - your father or the trustee. But, if I were you, I would call the lawyer and ask to have the...

My husband died without a will, life insurance, etc. I received an annuity check made out to his "estate".

How much was the check for? if it was less than $35,000, you may not have to do a full probate process. There is something called a "voluntary...

Can I write my own will and is it valid? Yes, it will be contested by my ex-wife.

In order for a will to be valid in Massachusetts, it must be signed in front of 2 witnesses and a notary. This is usually easier to have happen in...

Home owner sells home, capital gains tax applies, Home owner passes away, home goes up to fair mkt. value--0 capital tax.

Yes. And, if the owner was living in the home when it was sold, there is a capital gains exemption for that transaction, too.

I live in Ma. My sister has taken over all legal aspects of my Mom. Can I get proof of this and how? Can she sell my Moms house.

This is a wonderful demonstration of the importance of proper legal planning and communication. It is quite possible that your sister is doing...

Can a sibling that was appointed personal rep of my brothers estate sell his house without notifing his other siblings.

I realize the sale of the family home may be hard for you. But, yes, if the will granted the personal representative the power of sale, she can...