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Probate
- Petitioning the court to determine the validity of a decedent’s will or that a will does not exist.
- Appointment of a personal representative (formerly called an executor) to oversee the estate’s activity.
- Inventory of all assets held individually at death.
- Distribution of property in accordance with the terms of the will or the laws of intestacy if there is no will.
Probate, which is typically a year-long process, requires significant skills and knowledge. Our probate attorneys are leaders in this area. They frequently speak at local, regional, and national conferences to educate other attorneys in best practices, strategy development, and tax reduction.
Avoiding Probate
Probate can be expensive and time-consuming, sometimes taking years to complete. It is not a private process, meaning court records, and sometimes financial records, are made available to the public. If you would like to keep your assets out of probate and the court out of your personal decisions, our attorneys can help. We have extensive experience helping clients develop sound estate plans that avoid the need for probate.
Contact Us
In matters of estate administration and probate, sensitivity and discretion are just as important as legal experience. Since 1895, Bacon Wilson has served the Pioneer Valley area with compassion and dedication. We will help you and your loved ones through this difficult and emotional time.
To learn more and arrange a consultation, please call 413-693-2787 .

Estate Administration Questionnaire
What People Are Saying...
“When I had my first will done several years ago, it was one page and no fine details. Then I met attorney Gina Barry, and a dozen pages later I have a perfect will. Gina’s knowledge and attention to detail is outstanding. I highly recommend using her for any type of estate planning.” -Debbie
“I have had nothing but great results when Mike Katz has been doing work on my behalf. Mike is an excellent negotiator is a great communicator with the best interest of his clients as the top priority.” July 13, 2011
What People Are Saying...
What People Are Saying...
“I have known Gina Barry since 2003 when we met at a professional group BNI. Since then, I have hired her to work with my mother’s estate as well as prepare my own will. I have found her integrity and expertise in her field second to none. Gina has the ability to carefully plan your life estate so you can rest assured, live your life without doubt!” December 21, 2008
What People Are Saying...
“Jeff provides our non-profit corporation with outstanding legal advice relating to the operation of a fiber optic network, cable TV PEG matters, community outreach, government relations, and non-profit regulations. He combines his comprehensive legal knowledge with experience-based advice on telecommunications and non-profit business operations to provide a ‘one stop shop’ for our company.” January 25, 2011
What People Are Saying...
Dear Gina (Barry),
Thank you once again to you and your superb team for assisting me with the MassHealth situation. You truly continue to be a life saver for me… You keep me steady by responding with terrific legal and general health solutions, which are really very appreciated.
What People Are Saying...
Julie (Dialessi-Lafley,) thank you for everything yesterday. You are truly the best attorney ever