Caring for Aging Parents: How to Protect Their Finances and Future
Caring for aging parents often means helping them prepare for legal, financial, and healthcare decisions before a crisis occurs. By planning early, you can help protect their assets, honor their wishes, and reduce the likelihood of family disputes or court involvement.
Many adult children begin helping with everyday tasks,...
What Is the Massachusetts Estate Tax in 2026?
Massachusetts residents may owe state estate tax even if their estate is far below the federal estate tax threshold. In 2026, the federal estate tax exemption is $15 million per person, while Massachusetts continues to impose its own estate tax on estates exceeding $2 million.
That difference catches many...
Can a Personal Representative Sell Real Estate During Probate in Massachusetts?
Yes, a personal representative can sell real estate during probate in Massachusetts, but whether court approval is required depends on the authority granted under the will. If the will includes a power of sale, the personal representative can generally sell the property without obtaining a License to Sell from the Probate...
Domestic Violence and 209A Restraining Orders in Massachusetts: What You Need to Know
A 209A restraining order is a court order intended to protect people who have experienced abuse or fear they are at immediate risk of abuse from certain family or household members. Whether you are seeking protection or responding to a restraining order, understanding how the process works can help you make informed...
Lead Paint and Environmental Hazard Disclosure Failures in Massachusetts
When buying residential property in Massachusetts, sellers may be required to disclose certain environmental hazards, particularly the presence of lead paint in older homes. Failing to provide required disclosures can expose sellers to legal claims, financial liability, and disputes after the transaction closes.
Environmental hazards can affect a property's...
Buying New Construction in Massachusetts: Legal Protections and Common Pitfalls
Buying a newly built home in Massachusetts can offer advantages, including modern construction, energy-efficient features, and fewer immediate maintenance concerns. However, new construction purchases come with unique legal and financial risks that buyers should understand before signing a builder's contract.
Unlike many traditional home purchases, new construction transactions...
Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples in Massachusetts
Unmarried couples in Massachusetts do not receive the same legal protections as married spouses when it comes to inheritance, medical decision-making, and financial affairs. Without an estate plan, your partner may have no automatic right to inherit assets, make health care decisions, or manage your affairs if you become incapacitated.
How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?
Most people should review their estate plan every three to five years, even if nothing major has changed. You should also revisit your plan sooner whenever a significant life event, financial change, or legal development affects your family or assets.
Estate planning is not a one-time task. A will,...
LaFountain & Wollman P.C. Advises Green Card Applicants Following New USCIS Adjustment of Status Guidance
Adjustment of Status remains available, but applicants may face greater discretionary review.
LaFountain & Wollman P.C. advises immigrants, families, and employers to review pending and future green card applications carefully following a recent U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policy memorandum. This memorandum could increase scrutiny of Adjustment of...
Dividing Retirement Accounts in a Massachusetts Divorce: 401(k)s, Pensions, and QDRO Basics
Dividing retirement accounts in a Massachusetts divorce depends on when the benefits were earned, how the account is structured, and whether a court order is needed to transfer funds. Some accounts can be split directly, while others require a Qualified Domestic Relations Order, or QDRO, to divide them without tax penalties.