Monthly Archives: January 2017

Is an Increased Massachusetts Estate Tax Exemption in the Cards?

Posted on January 30, 2017 by

Massachusetts remains in the minority of states that have not increased their estate tax exemption since the federal estate tax exemption was raised in 2001. The Massachusetts estate tax exemption is currently $1,000,000 per person (though it disappears if you … Continue reading →

Posted in Estate Taxes

Let’s Get Physical: Body Donation in Massachusetts

Posted on January 18, 2017 by

Most of us are familiar with the small heart or other symbol on a driver’s license signifying that a person is an organ donor. But what if you would like to donate your entire body—organs and all—“to science,” as it … Continue reading →

Posted in Anatomical Gifts, Estate Planning

MassHealth’s Proposed Changes to Pooled Trusts Highlighted in The Boston Globe

Posted on January 12, 2017 by

The Boston Globe recently published an article concerning MassHealth’s proposed regulatory ban for transfers of assets to pooled trusts for individuals over the age of 65. The article profiles a typical client who might use a pooled trust, an elderly … Continue reading →

Posted in Elder Law, MassHealth, Pooled Trusts

Oral Arguments in Nadeau v. Thorn

Posted on January 9, 2017 by

The oral arguments in Nadeau v. Thorn were heard by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court last week on January 5, 2017. Mirick O’Connell’s Lisa Neeley argued on behalf of the Appellant, Lionel C. Nadeau. Please click here to view the arguments. … Continue reading →

Posted in Elder Law, Estate Planning, MassHealth

Should You Leave Money to Your Pets?

Posted on January 4, 2017 by

Pets are part of the family. They eat special food, require daily care and medications, and even sleep with their owners at night. But have you considered actually leaving money to your pet after you die? It may sound crazy, … Continue reading →

Posted in Estate Planning, Pet Trusts, Wills