A Personal Representative and a Power of Attorney are both individuals who play significant roles in managing someone’s affairs. However, they serve different purposes and have distinct legal statuses: Personal Representative: Power of Attorney (POA): In summary, a Personal Representative deals with the affairs of a deceased person’s estate, while a Power of Attorney handles… Read More »
Posts By Author: Tiffany O'ConnellPage 3
How Do I Provide For My Pets If I Die?
In Massachusetts, you can ensure your pet(s) are cared for after your death through various legal mechanisms: By taking proactive steps to provide for your pet(s) in your estate plan, you can make sure they receive the love and care they deserve even after you can no longer provide for them yourself.
What Is The Difference Between A Living Will And A Will in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, as in many other jurisdictions, individuals can have the opportunity to plan for their future and the distribution of their assets through legal documents known as a Living Will and a Will. While these documents may sound similar, they serve distinct purposes and address different aspects of an individual’s affairs. What Is a… Read More »
Who Are the Most Important Stakeholders In Your Estate?
If you have not yet crafted estate planning documents, now is the perfect opportunity to meet with an estate planning lawyer to discuss your next steps. There are several different people who may be associated with the management of your estate. This is because powers of attorney, trusts, wills, and advanced healthcare directives all appoint… Read More »
What Happens in Massachusetts if I Die Without a Will and Have No Heirs?
In Massachusetts, if a person passes away without a will (intestate) and has no surviving heirs, the estate may follow a specific legal process. Here’s what typically happens in such a situation: It’s crucial to note that the specific rules and procedures regarding intestate estates without heirs can vary, and legal processes may change over… Read More »
What Is A Life Estate And How Will It Affect My Inheritance In Massachusetts?
A life estate is a legal arrangement that grants an individual, known as the “life tenant,” the right to live in and use a property for the duration of their lifetime or the lifetime of another specified person, called the “remainderman.” In Massachusetts, as in many other states, a life estate can have implications for… Read More »
What Is The Older Americans Act?
The Older Americans Act (OAA) is a federal legislation in the United States that was first enacted in 1965 and has since been reauthorized multiple times. This act addresses the needs and concerns of older adults, typically sixty and above, to promote their well-being, independence, and quality of life. Key components and objectives of the… Read More »
What is the Difference between Guardianship and Conservatorship in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, when making decisions for individuals who cannot manage their personal and financial affairs for various reasons, two legal mechanisms come into play: guardianship and conservatorship. While both have a similar purpose, they have distinct differences in scope and responsibilities. Let’s look at the differences between guardianship and conservatorship in Massachusetts. What Is Guardianship?… Read More »
Why Is A HIPAA Release Crucial for Young Adults?
As young adults pass into independence and adulthood, they often encounter various responsibilities and decisions that their parents or guardians previously handled. One critical aspect of adulthood is managing personal health and medical information. In Massachusetts and across the United States, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulates the privacy and security of… Read More »
What Is The Difference Between Dying Intestate vs. Testate in Massachusetts?
Planning for the inevitable is a crucial aspect of life, and estate planning plays a pivotal role in ensuring your assets are distributed per your wishes after your passing. In Massachusetts, as in many other states, individuals have two primary options for managing their estate: dying intestate (without a will) or testate (with a will)…. Read More »