Get Mass Probate Forms

In Massachusetts, you generally have 30 days to file a petition for probate after a person's death. It is crucial to begin this process on time to avoid potential complications with the estate. Filling out Mass Probate Forms can streamline this initial step, helping you meet necessary deadlines. Be proactive to ensure the estate is settled smoothly.

To start the probate process in Massachusetts, you must file a petition with the probate court in the county where the deceased lived. This petition includes essential information about the deceased and their estate. Utilizing Mass Probate Forms can help ensure you complete the necessary documents correctly and efficiently. Once filed, the court will review the petition and approve it to initiate probate.

You do not necessarily need a lawyer for probate in Massachusetts, especially if the estate is straightforward. However, navigating the legal process can be complex, making professional guidance beneficial. For those handling the matter independently, using Mass Probate Forms can simplify filling out required documents. Consider your situation carefully to determine if legal assistance is right for you.

In person. You can submit the forms and fees in person at the correct Probate & Family Court. If the decedent lived in Massachusetts — File in the county where they lived when they died. If the decedent didn't live in Massachusetts — File in any county where the decedent had property when they died.

Letters and probate fees Type of pleadingFiling feeFormal Probate of Will, Adjudication of Intestacy and Appointment of Personal Representative, Petition$375Formal Appointment of Successor Personal Representative, Petition$375Formal Removal of Personal Representative, Petition$100General Petition, Probate$15027 more rows

Informal proceedings are less complicated and generally take less time to complete. The results, however, can always be challenged in a formal proceeding. Thus, you do not have the finality gained by a court order obtained through formal proceedings. Formal proceedings require a court hearing.

A magistrate can issue an informal probate order as soon as 7 days after the decedent's death. Informal probate is an administrative probate proceeding and is processed by a Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code (MUPC) Magistrate instead of a judge.

Typically, you have to probate the decedent's estate if you need to: Find out if the decedent's will is valid. Change the title (ownership) of real estate or personal property, such as bank accounts, stocks, or bonds, that is only in the decedent's name without any right of survivorship. Pay the decedent's creditors.

Call an attorney or print out Notice of Appearance and Objection – MPC Form 505a, complete it, and return by hand to the clerk's office for the Probate and Family Court. If you later decide that you do not want to pursue the objection, you may file a withdrawal of your objection.