Get Massachusetts Guardianship Forms

Informal probate is an administrative proceeding, which means that it is processed by a Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code (MUPC) Magistrate instead of a judge. The court doesn't allow hearings for this process. Informal probate can be a faster process if you meet all the requirements.

A guardian may be needed for: A spouse or elder who's been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. A young adult who's at least 18 years-old with an intellectual or developmental disability. A relative diagnosed with a mental health condition who's at risk for not receiving care.

If not, you may have to carry some of the costs of a GAL yourself. There is no fixed rate for GALs and total costs for GAL investigations and evaluations vary widely. In general, total charges may range anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 and beyond for more complicated cases.

Guardian/conservator fees Type of pleadingFiling feeAppointment of a Guardian, PetitionNo FeeExpand, Modify, Limit Powers of a Conservator, Petition$150Expand, Modify, Limit Powers of a Guardian, PetitionNo FeeForeign Conservator Sworn Statement$754 more rows

Either the incapacitated person or a person interested in the incapacitated person's welfare can file a petition for guardianship. The petition is filed in the Probate and Family Court in the county where the incapacitated person lives.

Standards for Appointment of a Guardian in Massachusetts A person must suffer a mental illness or physical condition and be diagnosed as incapacitated for an appointment of guardianship to occur. A minor who is unable to handle her affairs due to age or mental or physical incapacity may also be appointed a guardian.

The filing fee for a Guardianship is $175.00 per Petition plus $12.00 for certified Letters of Guardianship. If you are filing for two people, such as both parents, it will cost $350.00 plus $24.00 for the certified copies. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can ask for a fee waiver.

Petition for appointment as guardian. For filing a petition for appointment as guardian, the fee is $90. [PL 2021, c.