Instructions to petitioner for informal probate publication notice

Learn how to complete the Informal Probate Publication Notice form (MPC 551) and arrange for publication, which must happen within 30 days of the Informal Order date.

Table of Contents

30 days  Publication must be completed within 30 days of the date of the Informal Order.
  • Complete the sample Informal Probate Publication Notice form (MPC 551) and arrange for publication (once) in a newspaper of general circulation in both the city/town and county in which the decedent was domiciled. If the decedent was not domiciled in Massachusetts, publication should take place where the decedent last owned property. If there is no newspaper in the city/town in which publication must take place, then it should take place in the nearest city/town newspaper or in a newspaper that circulates throughout the county.
  • A list of newspapers designated by the Register of Probate for each county and organized by city/town is available in the office of the Registry at the Court where the Informal Petition is on file or by visiting the List of newspapers for informal publication page.
  • Proof of publication does not need to be filed with the Court, but may be requested by the Court at a later date or by any interested person. Please retain proof of publication for your records.
  • Failure to publish may have legal consequences. If you need assistance with legal decisions, you should contact an attorney. The sample form and these instructions are provided as a courtesy on behalf of the Register of the Probate and Family Court. Court staff cannot advise you on your legal obligations under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code.

For more information or assistance

For assistance, please email pfcquestions@jud.state.ma.us.

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