Probate Lawyers Near You in Lancaster, PA
If you are handling an estate and are unsure how to proceed, or if you are in dispute with your family over what you believe to be a fair inheritance, the probate process and estate administration in Pennsylvania can be complex and overwhelming.
Working with an experienced probate lawyer who can answer your questions and provide clear guidance throughout the probate process in PA is essential. Very complex estates can remain in probate for years. Although such situations are uncommon, attempting to navigate probate independently is rarely advisable. You need a probate attorney who can manage challenging issues and minimize delays or disruptions.
At May Herr & Grosh LLP, our experienced probate lawyers have handled estate administration and will contest matters for families throughout Lancaster County, PA, for over three generations.
Put the experience of our Pennsylvania estate law firm to work for you in all matters related to probate and estate administration. Whether you are just beginning the probate process or are facing disputes along the way, our probate attorneys are prepared to assist with timely documentation filing, will contests, probate litigation, and inheritance disputes.
PROBATE & ESTATE SERVICES
ESTATE PLANNING INSIGHTS
WHAT IS PROBATE?
In short, the primary purpose of probate is to gather up assets of the estate and distribute them to the beneficiaries per the last will In short, the primary purpose of probate is to collect the assets of an estate and distribute them to the appropriate beneficiaries according to the terms of the last will and testament. If no will exists, distribution occurs under the intestate laws of the jurisdiction—in this case, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Probate also functions to resolve and settle claims brought against an estate under court supervision, whether or not a valid will is present. A knowledgeable probate attorney can help ensure that all legal obligations are met and that disputes are managed in accordance with Pennsylvania probate law.
HOW DOES PROBATE WORK IN PENNSYLVANIA?
There are many steps involved in opening probate, including determining whether you will need to pursue the formal probate process or qualify for Pennsylvania’s simplified procedure, which applies to estates with assets totaling less than $50,000.
Although Pennsylvania permits individuals to manage the probate process without legal representation, the extensive documentation, ongoing reporting requirements, and financial oversight involved can be overwhelming. This is especially true when an estate is large or includes complex assets.
Additionally, suppose you encounter disputes with family members over particular items or questions of entitlement. In that case, it is important to have a knowledgeable probate litigation lawyer or inheritance lawyer available to assist from the outset. Working with a skilled probate attorney helps reduce stress and avoid costly mistakes.
HOW DO YOU COORDINATE PROBATE AND NON-PROBATE ASSETS?
Depending on how the individual structured their estate plan, you may find that certain assets are not subject to probate. While this can streamline the overall estate administration process, gathering and carefully reviewing all relevant documentation is essential to confirm whether probate is required. A thorough review conducted with the help of an experienced probate lawyer can clarify the situation and prevent costly oversights.
WHERE DO WE OPEN THE ESTATE?
Specific documents—including the decedent’s last will and testament—must be filed with the court in the county where the individual lived. Any applicable taxes must also be calculated and paid accurately. Probate can feel overwhelming and procedurally complex, which is why it is recommended to work with a qualified probate attorney who can guide you through each step with confidence and precision.
DISCOVER MAY HERR & GROSH’S COMPREHENSIVE PROBATE SERVICES
FOR LANCASTER AND BEYOND
CONTESTING A WILL
Do you believe that you have been unfairly excluded from a will? Are you facing a legal dispute threatening your rightful share of an inheritance? These situations can be emotionally and legally challenging, but you do not have to navigate them on your own. Get help from experienced probate litigation lawyers at May Herr & Grosh LLP who are prepared to investigate your claims and assert your position in court.
PROBATE & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
Handling an estate can be emotionally and logistically overwhelming, especially when you are unfamiliar with the legal steps involved in probate. The process demands careful attention to detail, from collecting assets and notifying creditors to filing tax documents and distributing inheritances. A knowledgeable probate lawyer can help ensure that each requirement is properly completed, reducing your burden and helping to avoid errors or delays.
OUT OF AREA ESTATES
Are you the executor of an estate in Pennsylvania but currently living out of state? Administering an estate from a distance presents unique challenges, particularly when you are unfamiliar with local probate procedures. Our Lancaster-based probate attorneys understand Pennsylvania estate law thoroughly and are well-equipped to assist executors no matter where they are located. When you work with our lawyer for inheritance, we will manage the details on your behalf.
NEED HELP WITH ESTATE PLANNING OR DRAFTING YOUR WILL?
The caring estate planning attorneys at our law offices in Lancaster can help you draft a comprehensive estate plan, including all documentation to help you minimize the tax burden and complications for your loved ones.
