A Detailed Guide to Researching Massachusetts
Probate Records.

Introduction

Navigating probate records can be challenging, especially when uncovering crucial details about a deceased loved one's estate. Whether you're a genealogist tracing family history, a lawyer handling an estate, or someone piecing together a loved one's final affairs, Massachusetts probate records offer a wealth of information. This guide will walk you through the process of locating, understanding, and effectively using these records, helping you uncover valuable insights and streamline your research process.

Where to Begin Your Probate Record Search

• Identify the county probate court where the deceased person lived.
• Contact the court clerk's office to request a copy of the probate record.
• Provide the full name of the deceased and any relevant details, such as the will date or executor's name.
• The court clerk will search the records and provide a copy if available. Be prepared for potential fees.

What Information Can You Find in Probate Records?

• Types of records: Probate files may include wills, bonds, inventories, accounts, claims, petitions, and lists of heirs.
• Information details: Files vary in size and content, ranging from extensive to minimal.
• Key information: Wills often list spouses, children, and other next-of-kin, often including their residences and relationships to the deceased.
• Key information: Wills often list spouses, children, and other next-of-kin, often including their residences and relationships to the deceased.
• Broader search strategy: Not everyone leaves a will or probate record. Expand your search to include family members and related individuals for a more comprehensive picture.

Original probate case files are invaluable resources, often containing unique family information not found elsewhere. Remember that no two probate files are identical, and the information they contain can vary significantly.

Pro Tip: Broaden your search beyond a single individual. Look for probate files of children, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins to uncover additional family connections and details.

Our Probate Court Research Services

Looking for a more efficient way to request probate records? Consider these options:

• Public access: Probate court files are public records available for review, copying, and purchasing as certified copies.
• Direct requests: Request records directly through our service for discreet and transparent copies of probate records from Bristol, Middlesex, Norfolk, and Suffolk counties.

Accessing Historical Probate Records

For older records, consider these research avenues:

• Online sources: Search for published probate records available digitally or in book form.
• Recent records: Use online indexes for records from the last 15-20 years.
• Mid-20th century records: Some older records may not be indexed online and may require direct requests to the court.

A Note on Adoption Papers

It's important to note that adoption records in Massachusetts are sealed and not available to the public without a court order. If you're seeking an adoption record, you'll need to contact the probate court directly and request a local court order for access.

For more information on adoption laws in Massachusetts, refer to Chapter 210: Adoption of Children and Change of Name in the state's legal code.

Types of Probate Records

There are two main classes of probate records:

• Testate: When a person dies leaving a will.
• Intestate: When a person dies without a will, usually resulting in a letter of administration.

For a more in-depth understanding of probate records, their value, and terminology, we recommend reading "The Researcher's Guide to American Genealogy" by Val D. Greenwood, published by the Genealogical Publishing Company. Chapters 13, 14, and 17 are particularly informative on probate matters, wills, and miscellaneous probate records.

Locating Probate Records in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, probate records are filed at the county level, based on the deceased person's residence at the time of death. For example, if someone died in Boston (Suffolk County) but lived in Duxbury (Plymouth County), the probate file would be in Plymouth County Probate Court.

Locating original probate records can be challenging due to:

• Records being relocated to various archive depositories
• Space constraints in courthouses
• Efforts to preserve records in controlled environments
• Measures to prevent theft

Some older records may be in storage and not easily accessible. In such cases, probate "record books" can be valuable alternative sources of information.

Conclusion

Researching Massachusetts probate records can be complex but rewarding. By understanding the types of records available and knowing where to find them, you can uncover valuable information about your ancestors and their estates. Remember to broaden your search beyond individuals to include family members and potential heirs for a more comprehensive picture.

Ready to start your probate record research or need expert assistance? Contact us today for professional help in locating and retrieving Massachusetts probate records. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through the process and help you uncover the valuable information you seek.