Comprehensive Pennsylvania Probate Services
It’s a difficult and trying time right after a loved one passes. Each state has its own set of rules and regulations by which an estate must be transferred. It’s not always easy to navigate these legal waters. This time can also be confusing for family members.
The Help You Need When You Need It
We can help. With decades of experience in Pittsburgh and throughout Pennsylvania our team can answer your questions and guide you through this process to make it as time – and cost – effective as possible. Having a neutral, third party direct this process can lessen the tension and bring clarity to the process. No one has to be the “bad guy.”
Probate Assistance In A Variety Of Ways
There are a whole host of duties that need attending to after a loved one dies in Pennsylvania. We can assist with:
- Pennsylvania inheritance tax
- Pennsylvania home inheritance after death
- Will contests and fraud
- Executor functions and duties
- Asset distribution
- Debt payoffs
- Funds due collection
Common Questions About Pennsylvania Probate
We know that you most likely have questions about probate. We wanted to take a few moments to address some of the most frequently asked questions that we receive at our firm about the process. If you have more specific questions about your situation, please feel free to reach out to schedule your consultation.
What is probate?
Probate is basically the closing of a loved one’s estate after he or she passes away. The individual’s assets are collected, debts are paid, and assets are then distributed according to the loved one’s final wishes. It is the process of transferring property from the deceased to the beneficiaries named in an estate planning document, or according to Pennsylvania’s intestate laws.
How does probate work in Pennsylvania?
The court may appoint an administrator if one is not named in estate planning documents. This individual will handle the process of gathering the assets and paying the debts of the estate from those assets. The complexity of the estate may make the process much more complex, so it is important to contact an experienced attorney for assistance with probate.
Is probate always necessary?
It really does depend on the size of the estate and the property being passed down. We can help you understand what you need to do to successfully comply with Pennsylvania’s probate requirements.
My loved one lived out of state but owned real property in Pennsylvania. Do I need to come to Pennsylvania to complete probate?
If you are out-of-state and need assistance with probate in Pennsylvania, please reach out to us to learn more about your options. We can discuss the situation and provide you with the information you need to determine your next steps.
What is Pennsylvania’s inheritance tax?
Pennsylvania has unique laws. Any items individually owned by one person that are being transferred to someone else will have an inheritance tax of 0 to 15 percent. This tax is dependent on who is receiving the money; spouses do not have to pay inheritance tax. Lineal descendants, such as a child or grandchild, pay 4.5 percent; a sibling pays 12.5 percent; and everyone else pays 15 percent. This is taxed from dollar one. A seasoned attorney will know the deductions you can take to lower your tax burden.
When are inheritance taxes due?
Pennsylvania inheritance taxes are due nine months after the date of death. This is why it is imperative to have an attorney assist you in handling the estate in a timely fashion so that the inheritance taxes are paid on time.
What if I have inherited my parents’ home?
If both owners are deceased and the house is sold or you just decide to keep it, the value of the property is taxable for inheritance tax purposes. However, there are many deductions that can be taken on the inheritance tax return to lower the tax burden. Deductible costs may include:
- Closing costs on the sale of real property
- Funeral expenses
- Court fees for the administration of the estate
- Lawyer fees for the administration of the estate
- Debts paid by the estate on behalf of the decedent
A skilled probate lawyer can assist with every detail regarding probate, including seeking out legitimate ways to keep a lower tax liability.
I am an executor of my uncle’s estate, where should I start?
Start the process by calling our experienced probate law office. We can work with you to administer every step of the probate process, including:
- Opening bank accounts
- Paying debts
- Handling expenses
- Preparing taxes
- Timely filing of required court documents
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries
We are extensively experienced in all probate matters and will work tirelessly to process your loved one’s estate. Let us do the difficult work so you can spend time mourning with your family. As always, we care about your needs and will strive for the best possible results.
Let Us Manage Your Probate Needs
A collaborative approach is key at Family Legal Center, LLC. We understand that going through probate and inheritance concerns can be stressful. From the moment you sit down in our office, you will feel comfortable and be assured of our diligent representation. We do everything that is needed to handle probate.
From getting sworn in as the administrator or executor to final conclusion and distribution of the estate, Family Legal Center, LLC, attorneys and staff will be there to guide you and make your life easier during this difficult time. Contact us at 412-843-0957 or toll-free at , and speak with an experienced Pennsylvania probate attorney. You can also email us your probate questions.