Frequently Asked Questions

Probate Law is a branch of law that deals with the legal process of settling the estate of a deceased person. This process involves identifying and gathering the assets of the deceased, paying off any outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries.  In Pennsylvania, part of the estate process is preparing and filing a Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax return.

If you are the executor of an estate, it is highly recommended that you seek the services of a Probate Lawyer. The probate process can be complex, and a lawyer can help you navigate the process and ensure that the estate is settled in a timely and efficient manner.

The Executor is responsible for managing the estate of the deceased person. This includes identifying and gathering assets, paying off any outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries in accordance with the will or state law.

If there is no will or one cannot be located, then the handling opf the estate becomes more complicated.  The county Register of Wills chooses and "administrator," usually a family member or close friend who then works with a  lawyer to make sure the necessary and stringent legal requirements are followed.