Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Massachusetts

Finding status of Probate

Hi, My wife is named in her uncle's will and He died Jan 07, she was notified of the will May 07. Now it has been a year and we have got nothing regarding the probate process. We have a copy of the will from the probate court from last year. We are going to go there and ask for any additional documentation. We are mainly looking for account balances and a time line of what is to come.

What should we request or say when going to the court?

Thanks for the advice.


Asked on 5/14/08, 6:05 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys
Alexandra Golden Golden Law Center

Re: Finding status of Probate

Just ask for the file and ask the clerk to print out the docket for you. There will be a computer which will have the docket number (if you don't already have it).

The clerks are not supposed to to give you legal advice, so don't be surprised if they won't answer some of your questions.

Please feel free to contact my office if I can be of assistance.

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Answered on 5/14/08, 6:18 pm
Joseph Murray Joseph M. Murray, Esq.

Re: Finding status of Probate

Ask to see the docket and the file and compare them to see that an inventory was filed and perhaps at least one annual account. Since the clerks are not allowed to give legal advice, you may need to get a copy of the docket and retain an attorney to review it and answer your questions.

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Answered on 5/14/08, 7:29 pm
Joseph Murray Joseph M. Murray, Esq.

Re: Finding status of Probate

Ask to see the docket and the file and compare them to see that an inventory was filed and perhaps at least one annual account. Since the clerks are not allowed to give legal advice, you may need to get a copy of the docket and retain an attorney to review it and answer your questions.

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Answered on 5/14/08, 7:29 pm
Denise Leydon Harvey Harvey Law Offices

Re: Finding status of Probate

I agree with the other responses, but I would also suggest that you first contact the person who notified you of the will - either the executor or the executor's attorney. He or she should have all this information for you as well as an idea of when the estate may be finalized.

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Answered on 5/15/08, 11:21 am


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