Life Estate Duties to Repair and Care for Property — Massachusetts
Understanding a Life Tenant’s Duties to Repair and Care for Property in Massachusetts Quick summary A life tenant holds the right to possess property for the duration of a life (usually the life tenant’s own life). That right comes with obligations — most importantly, a duty not to commit "waste." In Massachusetts, as under general […]
Read article →Massachusetts: When an Adjuster Proposes a Final Release but You Still Need Medical Treatment
Detailed Answer When an insurer’s claims adjuster offers you a lump-sum “full release” while you still expect additional medical care, that offer can permanently end your right to recover money later for future treatment tied to the same injury. In Massachusetts, a signed release is generally a binding contract. If you accept a complete release […]
Read article →Massachusetts: What Happens After the 90-Day Waiting Period for an Unclaimed Property Claim
After the 90-Day Waiting Period: What to Expect with Unclaimed Property in Massachusetts Disclaimer: This article explains general Massachusetts unclaimed property procedures and is not legal advice. If you need legal help, contact an attorney licensed in Massachusetts. Detailed Answer When you file a valid claim for unclaimed property in Massachusetts, the Treasurer’s office reviews […]
Read article →Massachusetts — Evidence Needed to Challenge a Will (Capacity and Undue Influence)
This FAQ explains the kinds of evidence that Massachusetts probate courts consider when a will is challenged on grounds of lack of testamentary capacity or undue influence. It summarizes the legal standards, the types of proof that help or hurt a challenge, and practical steps to preserve evidence. This is educational information and not legal […]
Read article →Massachusetts: What to Expect After You Submit an Insurance Claim
Disclaimer: This article is educational only and is not legal advice. It explains common steps and Massachusetts resources after you submit an insurance claim. If you need legal advice about a specific claim, contact a licensed attorney. Detailed Answer After you submit a claim to an insurance company in Massachusetts, the insurer typically follows a […]
Read article →How to File a Special Proceeding to Recover Foreclosure Surplus Funds in Massachusetts
Recovering Foreclosure Surplus Funds in Massachusetts: Step-by-Step Guide Disclaimer: This information is educational only and not legal advice. I am not a lawyer. For help with a specific case, consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney. Detailed Answer — How to file a special proceeding to recover foreclosure surplus funds in Massachusetts When a foreclosure sale produces […]
Read article →Massachusetts: Statute of Limitations for Filing an Assault Claim
Detailed Answer Short answer: In Massachusetts, most civil claims for assault (including assault and battery and most other personal-injury torts) must be filed within three years after the cause of action accrues. The governing statute is Massachusetts General Laws chapter 260, section 2A: https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartII/TitleI/Chapter260/Section2A What “three years” means in practice The statute of limitations generally […]
Read article →Can a consent order be used to skip the court hearing and distribute the sale money by agreement? (MA)
Disclaimer: This is educational information only and not legal advice. Laws change and this article does not replace a consultation with a qualified Massachusetts attorney about your specific facts. Detailed Answer — How consent orders work in Massachusetts and whether they can replace a hearing to distribute sale proceeds Short answer: often, yes — but […]
Read article →What Happens if a Will Is Lost or Destroyed in Massachusetts (MA)?
Lost or Destroyed Wills in Massachusetts: FAQ — How Probate Courts Handle Missing Wills This FAQ explains what typically happens under Massachusetts law when a will is lost, destroyed, or cannot be located. It uses plain language and a short hypothetical to show the usual steps you or an executor would take. This is educational […]
Read article →How can a personal representative confirm that a probate proceeding has concluded and a trust has been properly funded? — MA
How a personal representative can confirm a probate has concluded and a trust is properly funded (Massachusetts) Short answer: In Massachusetts, a personal representative confirms that probate has concluded by getting the court’s final entries—an allowed final account, an order or decree approving distribution, and a discharge or termination of letters—and by gathering certified court […]
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