Probate

Probate is the court-supervised process of proving a will, appointing someone to settle the estate, paying debts, and transferring what’s left to the heirs. In Pennsylvania it begins with the Register of Wills in the county where the person lived. It’s manageable with guidance, and much harder to handle alone while grieving.

What the process involves

• Filing the will and requesting letters testamentary, or letters of administration if there is no will
• Advertising the estate and giving the required notices to beneficiaries and heirs
• Gathering and valuing assets and filing an inventory
• Paying debts, expenses, and Pennsylvania inheritance tax
• Accounting to beneficiaries and distributing the estate

How I help

I handle the court filings, notices, and tax returns, keep you on schedule, and explain each step as it comes. My goal is to settle the estate efficiently so you can focus on your family.

Need an executor?

If the named executor can’t serve, or the family would benefit from a neutral party, I can serve as executor or administrator and settle the estate objectively and efficiently.

Common questions

How long does probate take in Pennsylvania?

Many estates take about a year, partly because creditors generally have a year to come forward. Simple estates can move faster; disputes or complicated assets take longer.

Does every estate go through probate?

No. Assets with a named beneficiary, jointly owned property, and assets held in a trust usually pass outside probate. Smaller estates may qualify for a simplified process.