Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Massachusetts

Re: Notice to trust beneficiaries

When you file the Will in Probate, you will be required to give notice to all potential heirs/beneficiaries.

If unsure, you should consider retaining an attorney to assist you, as their fee, once you are appointed executor, will become an expense of the administration of the estate. Good Luck!

Re: Notice to trust beneficiaries

If you are dealing with a pourover will and trust with charitable beneficiaries, it would be a good idea to speak with a probate attorney. Generally, there are obligations to give notice to beneficiaries, including charitable beneficiaries, along with the Attorney General for bequests to charities at the time the "Order of Notice" issues.

If you plan to "go it alone," you should talk to the probate clerk at the probate court where the will will be filed (which depends upon where the decedent was living (domiciled) at the time of death.)

As noted elsewhere, attorney's fees and accountants fees are expenses of the estate and deductible from assets before payment of bequests, and wise counsel can protect an executor or trustee from misteps resulting in personal liability.