IfI wantedto find out if a Will/trust has been executed, where would I start my search?
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IfI wantedto find out if a Will/trust has been executed, where would I start my search?
Is this information available on-line or is it available at the courthouse (Norfolk County, MA)?
Asked on August 25, 2010 under Estate Planning, Massachusetts
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Until the testator (the maker of the Will dies), there is no right for anyone else to view it. Therefore, even if a copy has been registered with the court, you would not be able to see it. Upon the death of the testator all beneficiaries named in it are notified. Even, if someone is not a beneficiary, once he Will is entered into probate anyone may obtain a copy for a small fee because it becomes a matter of public record. However, while a Will becomes a matter of public record, Trusts do not. They are private instruments made to be kept private unless they are created within the Will (known as a testamentary trust).
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