Plymouth County Estate Planning Lawyer

Creating a thorough estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones, your assets, and your peace of mind. At Mark Liam Gannon, Attorney at Law, we provide experienced, compassionate, and tailored estate planning services for clients throughout Plymouth County, Massachusetts. Whether you’re just beginning to think about your future or you need to revise an existing plan, we are here to help. Contact a seasoned Plymouth County estate planning lawyer from Mark Liam Gannon, Attorney at Law today.

Why Estate Planning Matters in Massachusetts

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy; it’s for anyone who wants to have control over their medical decisions, protect their children or dependents, avoid unnecessary taxes, or reduce the burden of probate. In Massachusetts, without a valid will or trust, your estate will be distributed under the state’s intestacy laws, which might not reflect your true intentions.

By working with a Plymouth County estate planning attorney, you ensure your assets are distributed the way you want. Our services include:

• Wills
• Trusts
• Guardianships
• Powers of Attorney
• Probate

Local Knowledge: Understanding the Plymouth County Probate Court System

For estate-related legal matters in Plymouth County, understanding the court system is essential. The Plymouth County Probate and Family Court is the primary venue for handling wills, estates, and guardianships. This court is located at:

Plymouth Trial Court
52 Obery Street
Plymouth, MA 02360
Phone: (508) 747-8400

There is also a satellite location in Brockton for some matters:

Brockton Trial Court
215 Main Street
Brockton, MA 02301
Phone: 508-587-8000

The court’s jurisdiction includes probate of wills, administration of estates, appointment of guardians and conservators, and related disputes. Probate can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially if the estate is contested or if documents are unclear or outdated. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney by your side who understands how the local court operates, its procedural nuances, and how to advocate effectively for your interests.

Estate Planning & Probate FAQ

Q: Do I really need a will if I don’t own much?
Yes. Even if you have modest assets, a will ensures that your possessions are distributed according to your wishes and can simplify the probate process for your loved ones.

Q: What happens if I die without a will in Massachusetts?
Your estate will be distributed according to Massachusetts intestacy laws. This could mean your assets go to relatives you didn’t intend to benefit, or that people you care about are left out entirely.

Q: How often should I update my estate plan?
You should review your plan at least every 3–5 years or after any major life event, such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or a significant change in your financial situation.

Q: What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will goes through probate and becomes public record, while a trust can avoid probate, offer more privacy, and provide more control over how and when your assets are distributed.

Q: Is probate always required in Massachusetts?
Not always. Small estates may qualify for simplified procedures, and assets held in trust or with named beneficiaries may avoid probate entirely. However, most estates that include real property or significant assets will go through probate unless planned otherwise.

Q: How long does the probate process take in Plymouth County?
While timelines vary depending on the complexity of the estate, simple probate cases may take 9–12 months. More complicated or contested estates can take much longer.

Q: What is a health care proxy and why do I need one?
A health care proxy allows someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so. It’s a vital component of a complete estate plan.

Contact an Estate Planning Lawyer in Plymouth County

If you live in Plymouth County, MA and are considering creating or updating your estate plan, don’t wait. The right time to plan is now, before a crisis happens. Let us help you take control of your future and protect your legacy. Contact a Plymouth County estate planning lawyer today.