Estate Planning Attorney in Rhode Island & Massachusetts

Jill M. Santiago Law Offices
(401) 307-5556
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If I Have A Will, Does That Mean My Family Avoids Probate?

April 6, 2026 by Jill Santiago

Does having a will avoid probate for your family? Learn why a will alone does not skip the probate process and explore estate planning tools that actually do.

Filed Under: Probate & Estate Administration Tagged With: Beneficiary Designations, Financial Powers of Attorney, Healthcare Powers of Attorney, Last Will and Testament, Personal Representatives, Probate Avoidance, Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts, Trust Funding

When Spring Arrives With Grief

March 16, 2026 by Jill Santiago

Losing a spouse brings profound grief and complex legal tasks. Learn about probate deadlines, death certificates, and how to find support during this time.

Filed Under: Funeral Planning, Jill's Story, Probate & Estate Administration, Single Women Tagged With: Estate Planning Documents, Grief Support, Last Will and Testament, Personal Representatives, Rhode Island Estates

When Is Probate NOT Necessary In Rhode Island?

February 20, 2026 by Jill Santiago

Losing a loved one is tough, and the thought of navigating the estate process, especially while grieving, can be daunting. While probate is the legal process necessary to transfer assets from the deceased person’s name to their heirs or beneficiaries, it is not always required. Let’s look at common situations that allow an estate to […]

Filed Under: Probate & Estate Administration

What Do I Do When A Family Member Dies In Rhode Island?

January 26, 2026 by Jill Santiago

Grieving the loss of a family member is one of life’s most challenging experiences. The emotional weight of loss is compounded by stress and confusion, particularly when your loved one did not plan ahead. Without clear guidance from the deceased, families are left to navigate funeral arrangements, property sales, and asset distribution during an already […]

Filed Under: Funeral Planning, Probate & Estate Administration

Rhode Island Probate Court System Overview

December 12, 2025 by JMS Law LTD

Rhode Island probate court building serving municipal jurisdictions

Understanding the Rhode Island Probate Court system is essential for individuals and families navigating wills, estates, trusts, and guardianship matters. Whether an estate is straightforward or complex, probate courts play a central role in ensuring assets are distributed according to state law and a decedent’s wishes. For residents of Warwick, Rhode Island, probate matters are […]

Filed Under: Probate & Estate Administration, Rhode Island Legal Resources

Selling vs. Keeping Inherited Properties: What to Consider During Probate

April 22, 2025 by Jill Santiago

Inheriting real estate can be both a financial opportunity and a potential source of stress—especially when multiple heirs are involved. Deciding whether to keep or sell the property depends on a variety of legal, financial, and emotional factors. Below, we explore the pros and cons of each option, how the probate process plays into the […]

Filed Under: Probate & Estate Administration, Real Estate & Titling

Three Reasons Why You Want to Avoid Probate For Your Estate

August 19, 2024 by Jill Santiago

The short definition of probate is: “Probate is the court action that changes the title of assets from a deceased person to the beneficiaries or heirs.” Whether or not someone leaves a will, probate is often necessary. It is a common misconception that creating a will, or holding assets jointly, will avoid probate. Simply leaving […]

Filed Under: Probate & Estate Administration

Rhode Island Probate vs. Trust Administration Compared Side By Side

August 5, 2024 by Jill Santiago

Do you need a will, or do you need a trust? Confused about the difference? The major difference is probate – which is the court process that applies to a person’s estate whether they leave a will or not. When it comes to estate planning, understanding the difference between probate and trust administration can significantly […]

Filed Under: Probate & Estate Administration, Trustees & Trust Management

Address: 2348 Post Rd Suite 106, Warwick, RI 02886 | Phone: (401) 307-5556 | Email: info@jmslawltd.com

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