Estate Probate and Administration

Probate refers to a Court’s oversight of the distribution of an individual’s personal assets after death, either according to the provisions of the individual’s will or according to the provisions of the laws which govern if no will exists.

An attorney’s assistance in probate can be invaluable in helping a bereaved individual cope with the demands of the probate process, guiding individuals through the courts and helping to assure that the estate assets are distributed appropriately.

The firm has extensive experience in guiding individuals through the probate process, often in estates with valuations of several million dollars or more. In such cases, partner Mark Engel may work together with Stephen Politi, Of Counsel to the firm, and former Chief Counsel to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue.

Will Contests

The firm has handled a number of will contests brought by the decedent’s relatives who had reason to object to the fairness of the will being probated. The firm has handled cases involving issues of undue influence exerted on the deceased prior to this death and the testamentary capacity of the deceased at the time that he signed the will and the statutory rights of a surviving spouse. Mr. Engel has also answered numerous questions on behalf of the Massachusetts Bar Association relating to rights of family members following the death of a close relation.

If you need an attorney relating to the probating of an estate or the possible contesting of a will, please contact Mark Engel directly by phone or by e-mail at mdengel@engelschultz.com.