Probate Attorney & Executor Help in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties
You've been named executor or someone you love just died. You have real legal deadlines, real personal liability, and real decisions to make. We help southeastern Pennsylvania families navigate every step, providing services in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties
Georgetown LL.M. in Taxation · AmLaw 100 Trained · Pennsylvania Orphans' Court Experience · Free Consultations · Five Locations Across Southeastern PA
Are You Dealing with One of These?
You’ve Been Named Executor or Administrator
You're legally responsible for the entire estate: creditor notices, inheritance tax filings, asset distribution, court accounting. One mistake creates personal liability. We guide you through every step, so nothing falls through the cracks.
Someone Died Without a Will
Pennsylvania's intestate succession laws take over, and they don't account for your actual family situation. We help you understand who gets what, who administers the estate, and how to protect everyone's interests.
You’re a Beneficiary and Something Feels Wrong
If an executor is unresponsive, slow, or you suspect mismanagement, you have legally enforceable rights. We represent beneficiaries through formal accountings, Orphans' Court proceedings, and executor removal when necessary.
Full Pennsylvania Probate Representation
✓ Opening the estate at the Register of Wills
✓ Obtaining Short Certificates for banks and financial institutions
✓ Creditor notification and claims management
✓ Pennsylvania inheritance tax return (REV-1500) — due within 9 months
✓ Asset inventory, valuation, and management
✓ Fiduciary accounting and recordkeeping
✓ Distributions to beneficiaries
✓ Formal estate closing
Most executors find that the cost of an attorney is far less than the cost of a mistake.
The Attorney You Hire Is the
Attorney You Work With
Bass W. Chadwick trained at one of Pennsylvania's largest law firms before founding Chadwick Estate Law holding a Georgetown LL.M. in Taxation with a certificate in Estate Planning. Every probate matter is handled personally. You're never passed to a paralegal or junior associate. Five office locations across the Main Line and Philadelphia. Virtual consultations available statewide.
Testimonials
"Bass helped my family organize their estate. He made a daunting process very simple. We cannot recommend him enough."
-Nicole L. ★★★★★ Google Review
"I hired Mr. Bass Chadwick and was extremely satisfied with his services. Mr. Chadwick was quick, thorough, and saw the matter through completely."
Kerolos K. ★★★★★ Google Review
Ready to talk to a Pennsylvania probate attorney?
Pennsylvania Probate - Step by Step
Step 1
Open the Estate
File Petition with the Register of Wills in the county where the deceased lived. Receive Letters Testamentary and Short Certificates.
Step 2
Notify & Inventory
Notify beneficiaries and creditors. Identify, secure, and value all estate assets.
Step 3
Pay Debts & Taxes
File the Pennsylvania inheritance tax return. Resolve valid creditor claims and administration costs.
Most Pennsylvania estates close within 6–12 months with proper guidance.
Step 4
Distribute & Close
Distribute assets to beneficiaries. File the final accounting. Close the estate.
Do I need a probate attorney in Pennsylvania?
No, but executors who proceed without counsel regularly make costly mistakes that create personal liability. Missing a creditor deadline or distributing assets too early can expose you to claims from beneficiaries. The cost of an attorney is almost always less than the cost of a mistake.
How much does it cost?
We offer transparent fee arrangements discussed at your free consultation. Attorney fees are paid from the estate, not out of your own pocket.
Can we meet virtually?
Yes. We handle probate matters statewide via Zoom, with in-person meetings available at five Pennsylvania offices.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
Schedule You Free Consultation →
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Or Call (215) 277-0888
Mon–Fri 8am–6pm · Wayne · Philadelphia · Bala Cynwyd · Plymouth Meeting · Malvern
