If you’re looking for an estate planning, elder law, or probate attorney in Somerset, Massachusetts, The Law Offices of Patricia Bloom-McDonald can help. We represent individuals and families throughout Somerset with last wills and testaments, trusts, long-term care planning, MassHealth (Medicaid) planning, and probate administration. Since 2003, we have helped Somerset families protect their assets, prepare for the future, and address the legal issues that often accompany aging, incapacity, and the administration of a loved one’s estate. We work closely with each client to develop practical legal solutions that reflect their family, financial circumstances, and long-term goals.

Why Somerset Families Turn to Our Firm

Choosing an attorney for estate planning or probate is an important decision. We take the time to understand your circumstances and recommend legal solutions that fit your family and financial situation.

Families in Somerset choose our firm because:

  • Decades of focused practice. Patricia Bloom-McDonald has practiced estate planning, elder law, and probate law for more than 30 years.
  • Personalized planning. We learn about your family, assets, and long-term goals before recommending legal strategies.
  • Clear communication. We explain your options in straightforward language, so you understand your decisions before moving forward.
  • Professional recognition. Patricia Bloom-McDonald has been recognized by Super Lawyers and Boston Magazine‘s Top Women Attorneys and is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.
  • Flexible payment options. We offer complimentary consultations and payment arrangements designed to make planning more accessible.
  • Responsive client service. We understand these matters often arise during stressful times, and we strive to respond promptly while keeping you informed throughout your matter.

What Estate Planning Services Do We Offer in Somerset?

Estate planning is the process of putting legal documents in place that determine how your affairs will be managed during your lifetime and how your assets will be distributed after your death. Whether you are planning for young children, protecting significant assets, or preparing for retirement, we create documents that work together as part of a comprehensive estate plan.

Our Somerset estate planning services include:

A well-designed estate plan helps ensure your wishes are respected, provides guidance if you become unable to make decisions, and can simplify matters for your loved ones in the future.

How Can an Elder Law Attorney Help?

As you or a loved one grows older, legal and financial questions often become more complex. Elder law planning helps address important questions about long-term care, MassHealth eligibility, protecting assets, and who will make decisions on your behalf if you cannot.

We assist Somerset clients with matters including:

Every family’s situation is different. We help you understand the legal and financial options available so you can make informed decisions about future care, public benefits, and protecting assets for yourself and your loved ones.

What Happens During Probate in Massachusetts?

When someone passes away owning assets in their individual name, their estate may need to go through probate. Probate is the legal process for validating a last will and testament, appointing a personal representative, paying valid debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries or heirs.

If you have been named as a personal representative, you are responsible for carrying out a number of legal and financial duties. Many people find the probate process unfamiliar, particularly while grieving the loss of a loved one.

We represent executors, personal representatives, beneficiaries, and family members throughout Somerset, helping them understand their responsibilities and move the administration process forward efficiently. The length of probate depends on factors such as the type of estate, whether a valid last will and testament exists, and whether disputes arise during administration.

Why Work With a Somerset Estate Planning Attorney?

Estate planning documents should reflect your individual circumstances and comply with Massachusetts law. Online forms may be convenient, but they cannot account for your family’s unique needs or provide legal guidance tailored to your situation.

We take the time to understand your priorities, answer your questions, and develop a plan that supports your long-term goals.

When Should You Start Estate Planning?

There is no minimum age or asset level required to benefit from estate planning. If you own property, have children, care for an aging parent, or want to control future medical and financial decisions, now is a good time to begin.

Review your estate plan after significant life changes, including:

  • Marriage or divorce
  • The birth or adoption of a child
  • Buying or selling a home
  • Retirement
  • Receiving an inheritance
  • Major financial changes

Planning before a health crisis occurs typically gives you more options and allows you to make decisions while you remain in control.

Talk to a Somerset Estate Planning, Elder Law & Probate Attorney Today

Whether you are preparing your first estate plan, planning for long-term care, or administering the estate of a loved one, The Law Offices of Patricia Bloom-McDonald is here to help. We proudly represent clients throughout Somerset and surrounding Massachusetts communities. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your family, your assets, and your future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update an estate plan I created years ago?

Yes. Estate plans should be reviewed periodically, particularly after major life events or changes in Massachusetts law. We can review your existing documents and recommend updates if appropriate.

Can you help if a family member passed away without a last will and testament?

Yes. When someone dies without a last will and testament, Massachusetts intestacy laws determine who inherits property and who may serve as the personal representative. We help families through this process from beginning to end.

Do I have to visit your office in person?

Not necessarily. While our office is conveniently located near Somerset in Westport, we serve clients throughout Bristol County, Norfolk County, and across Massachusetts, and we can accommodate remote consultations when appropriate.