Settling an estate involves many steps, from filing documents to identifying assets, paying estate debts and the Pennsylvania inheritance tax, and communicating with beneficiaries. We help you understand what needs to be done, which deadlines apply, and how Pennsylvania law affects the process. Whether the estate is simple or more involved, our goal is to make each step manageable and reduce the stress placed on those left behind.
From opening the estate to final distribution, we provide organized, compassionate assistance. You will always know what to expect and how your loved one’s affairs are being handled.
An estate consists of two asset types:
Probate is the legal process of settling a person’s estate after death through the court system. The probate process begins with filing the will and a petition for probate at the Register of Wills or Orphan’s Court and requesting formal appointment of a personal representative (either an executor or administrator). Once appointed, the representative is responsible for securing estate assets, paying estate debts, communicating with beneficiaries, and filing the necessary paperwork with the court, including the Pennsylvania inheritance tax return.
The complexity of the probate process varies depending on the assets within the estate, whether a will exists, and whether any disputes arise. An estate administration period commonly runs for 12-18 months, but can take longer due to complexity or conflicts. We help you understand your responsibilities, organize necessary documents, track deadlines for submission of documents and taxes, and meet the court’s requirements in a timely manner.
We also explain how Pennsylvania’s inheritance tax applies, how long the process typically takes, and what options are available for simplifying or streamlining tasks where possible.
Representatives must identify all assets owned by the deceased, which may include real estate, bank accounts, investment accounts, vehicles, personal property, insurance policies, and business interests. We assist in gathering documentation, obtaining valuations, and determining which assets are part of the probate estate.
Representatives are responsible for paying valid debts and expenses before beneficiaries receive their inheritance. This includes medical bills, outstanding loans, utility balances, the Pennsylvania inheritance tax, and administrative costs. We help you determine which debts are legitimate and which claims may be challenged.
We help you obtain the estate’s EIN number, prepare the tax return, and calculate tax obligations. Filing within the discount period may reduce the tax owed, and we help you evaluate available options.
The executor must notify heirs, beneficiaries, and other interested parties about the probate process. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes. We help prepare notices, respond to questions, and keep beneficiaries informed as the estate progresses.
Our attorneys assist with resolving disagreements, interpreting the will, and addressing concerns of the personal representative. We help maintain steady communication and work toward practical solutions.
In most cases, once all debts are satisfied and taxes are paid, the estate can be closed through a process called informal accounting, where all beneficiaries are notified regarding their final distributions and the personal representative notifies the court that the estate administration is complete. Afterwards, the personal representative has no ongoing liability to the estate.
In unusual cases where beneficiaries dispute the representative’s accounting of the estate, or where the estate is insolvent (meaning there is not enough money in the estate to pay the decedent’s debts), a formal accounting must be prepared. The formal accounting summarizes all financial activity, including income received, bills paid, and proposed distributions to creditors and beneficiaries. We help prepare both types of accountings in a clear and compliant format and provide guidance on submitting it to the beneficiaries or the court, and ensure that all legal obligations have been met so that the representative is protected from a legal standpoint.
Some estates require additional steps such as searching for life insurance policies, reviewing Medicaid records, or evaluating past financial transactions. These tasks can be time-consuming, and we assist representatives by gathering information, communicating with agencies, and identifying any outstanding obligations.
We help families navigate these special considerations and ensure that the estate is handled thoroughly from start to finish.
Families rely on our firm for probate support because we provide clear communication, organized processes, and steady guidance. We understand that dealing with an estate can be emotionally difficult, and we focus on making the legal process more manageable.
Our attorneys have extensive knowledge of Pennsylvania probate law and assist with estates of all sizes and complexity levels. Clients value our practical approach, attention to detail, and commitment to honoring their loved one’s legacy.
If you need help settling a loved one’s estate, we are here to support you through each step. Whether you need full-service administration or guidance on specific tasks, our attorneys provide compassionate and comprehensive assistance.
Contact Winter Duffy Law to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you navigate the probate process with clarity and care.
