Estate Administration in Pennsylvania
At Chadwick Estate Law, our seasoned attorneys provide comprehensive support to clients throughout Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Delaware, Chester, and Montgomery counties, in administering estates following a loved one's passing. Governed by the Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code (20 Pa.C.S.), estate administration involves managing assets, settling debts, and ensuring proper distribution.
What is Estate Administration?
Types of Estate Administration Services
At Chadwick Estate Law, we handle every stage of administration:
Asset Management & Inventory — Prepare and file detailed inventories within statutory deadlines (20 Pa.C.S. § 3301).
Debt & Tax Settlement — Negotiate creditor claims and file inheritance tax returns (72 P.S. § 9116).
Distribution in Kind — Transfer property directly to heirs (20 Pa.C.S. § 3531).
Partial Distributions — Provide early access to funds while protecting against overpayment (20 Pa.C.S. § 3532).
Family Settlement Agreements — Draft enforceable agreements to resolve disputes efficiently.
Advantages of Proper Estate Administration
Structured Distribution — Ensures compliance with will or intestacy law.
Debt Resolution — Pays creditors in priority order, protecting heirs.
Court Oversight — Safeguards beneficiaries via audits and surcharges (20 Pa.C.S. § 3505).
Flexible Settlements — Avoids costly litigation with negotiated family settlements.
Efficient Closure — Accelerates beneficiary access while maintaining legal compliance.
Key Responsibilities Managed
Asset Collection & Valuation
Locate and appraise all probate assets.
File inventory with the Register of Wills.
Financial Obligations
Settle valid debts.
File inheritance tax returns and secure Department of Revenue clearances.
Distributions
Administer specific gifts and general distributions.
Draft and implement family settlement agreements.
Compliance
Maintain accurate accounts.
File required reports with Orphans’ Court.
Safeguards in Estate Administration
Court Supervision via Orphans’ Court jurisdiction (20 Pa.C.S. § 711).
Inventory Verification within nine months of death.
Surcharge Mechanisms to penalize fiduciary mismanagement.
Notice Requirements ensuring transparency for creditors and heirs.
FAQs
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Appointment of a personal representative after probate.
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Usually 9–18 months depending on complexity.
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Sometimes, via partial distribution (20 Pa.C.S. § 3532).
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Yes, inheritance tax applies to most PA estates (72 P.S. § 9116).
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Family settlement agreements can resolve disputes outside litigation.
Protect Your Legacy with a Plan You Understand
Call 215-277-0888, email Bass or fill out this form to get started.
