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What should I know about formal probate petitions?

On Behalf of | Dec 26, 2017 | Probate & Estate Administration |

When it comes to probate, a plethora of questions may be on your mind and you may need to focus on various facets of the law. For example, many people move forward with filing an informal probate petition, while formal probate is necessary for others. Moreover, you may need to take a different approach depending on whether your loved one died with a will or without a will. If you are filing a formal probate petition, there are a number of pointers that may be helpful for you to go over.

Often, probate issues require multiple court hearings in front of a judge, according to the state of Massachusetts. You should also be aware of the filing fees, which are $375 for every probate petition filing in Massachusetts. Moreover, there is a $15 fee for a formal probate citation and a $15 formal probate surcharge fee as well. Before a formal probate petition is allowed, a publication notice and written notice are required. You will also need to complete various forms and provide the death certificate or an affidavit if the death certificate is not available.

Filing a probate petition can be confusing for many people who do not have experience handling these matters, especially if emotional pain and other stressors are present following the loss of someone who was close. By carefully looking through all of the different requirements and becoming accustomed to the probate process, petitioners could find an outcome more in their favor. Understand this this post does not supercede legal counsel.

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