Massachusetts First explores elected positions often overlooked by voters
While often overlooked, the Register of Probate administers justice and ensures the efficient handling of probate and family law matters. This office is responsible for distributing assets, resolving family disputes, and upholding the integrity of the legal system.
Probate, a legal process through which the assets and estate of a deceased individual are distributed, can be complex and emotionally challenging. In Massachusetts, the Register of Probate serves as the primary administrator of this process, overseeing the filing of documents, managing court proceedings, and maintaining records related to probate cases within its jurisdiction. They also provide valuable guidance to families on the required paperwork, deadlines, and legal formalities involved in estate administration, ensuring that all necessary steps follow Massachusetts law.
The Register of Probate is a custodian of important legal documents, including wills, trusts, and guardianship petitions. It handles family law cases, such as divorces, child custody disputes, and adoptions. They serve as a liaison between litigants and the court, assisting parties in understanding their rights and obligations under family law statutes. Additionally, the Register of Probate oversees the appointment and supervision of guardians for minors and incapacitated individuals and ensures that appointed guardians fulfill their duties responsibly.
About the Probate & Family Court
The Probate and Family Court Department handles court matters that involve families and children, like divorce, child support, and wills.
The Probate and Family Court Department’s mission is to deliver timely justice to the public by providing equal access to a fair, equitable, and efficient forum to solve family and probate legal matters and to help and protect all individuals, families, and children impartially and respectfully.
The Probate and Family Court Department has jurisdiction over family-related and probate matters, such as divorce, paternity, child support, custody, parenting time, adoption, ending parental rights, abuse prevention, wills, estates, trusts, guardianships, conservatorships, and name changes. The court has 14 divisions.
Current Registers
- Barnstable: Anastasia Welsh Perrino
- Berkshire: Anthony P. Patella
- Bristol: Thomas C. Hoye, Jr.
- Brockton: Matthew J. McDonough
- Dukes: Daphne Devries
- Essex: Pamela A. Casey O’Brien
- Fall River: Thomas C. Hoye, Jr.
- Franklin: John F. Merrigan
- Hampden: Rosemary Saccomani
- Hampshire: Mark Ames
- Lawrence: Pamela A. Casey O’Brien
- Middlesex North: Tara E. DeCristofaro
- Middlesex South: Tara E. DeCristofaro
- Nantucket: Sarah Maxwell
- New Bedford: Thomas C. Hoye, Jr.
- Norfolk: Colleen Brierley
- Plymouth: Matthew J. McDonough
- Suffolk: Stephanie L. Everett, Esq.
- Worcester: Stephanie K. Fattman
Essential Qualifications and Experience
Legal Background: A solid foundation in law is fundamental. Typically, candidates must possess a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Professional Experience: Candidates are often expected to have a certain level of professional experience in the legal field. This may include practicing as an attorney, serving as a paralegal, or working in a related capacity within the court system.
Knowledge of Probate and Family Law: A deep understanding of Massachusetts probate and family law statutes is essential, including estate administration, guardianship, adoption, divorce, child custody, and support matters.
Leadership and Administrative Skills: The Register of Probate must be able to manage court personnel, coordinate case schedules, and ensure the efficient operation of the probate court.
Ethical Standards and Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards and integrity is non-negotiable. This position involves handling sensitive legal matters and confidential information, necessitating a commitment to always fairness, impartiality, and confidentiality.
Community Engagement and Advocacy: Candidates should demonstrate a track record of community involvement and engagement and a passion for addressing the legal needs of residents within their jurisdiction.
Upcoming Massachusetts Elections
In Massachusetts, the Register of Probate is an elected official chosen by the voters to serve a term of office. This democratic process underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in administering justice.
Below is a list of nonincumbent candidates who filed for the November 5, 2024, election. (as of 4/17/24)
| OCPF ID | Candidate | Office | Party Affiliation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18770 | Bah, Mohamed Boston | Register of Probate, Suffolk County | Democrat |
| 15431 | Ames, Mark Northampton | Register of Probate, Hampshire County | Democrat |
We will update the list as new candidates file papers with OCPF.
Massachusetts First 
Leave a comment