Under Massachusetts law, a probate matter should be opened within three years after the date of death. In most cases, if there is a need for probate to transfer title to real property, bank accounts, vehicles or other assets, that need will become apparent well within the three year period.
Sometimes, however, the three years does pass, either because there has been no attempt to sell assets, or there were assets unknown to the heirs at the time of death. In that case, the rules allow you to file a