Resources
Beneficiary Rights in Pennsylvania
Beneficiaries are entitled to:
Notice of estate or trust administration.
A copy of the will or trust that governs their inheritance.
Timely and accurate information about estate or trust assets.
Formal or informal accountings.
Fair treatment by executors and trustees, who owe fiduciary duties of loyalty and impartiality.
If these rights are ignored, you can petition the Orphans’ Court for relief.
How We Help
Case Review — Analyze the will, trust, and estate documents.
Strategic Advice — Explain options for negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Court Filings — Petition the Orphans’ Court for contests, objections, or fiduciary removal.
Litigation Support — Represent you in hearings, trials, and settlement negotiations.
Resolution — Protect your inheritance while minimizing family conflict and cost where possible.
Our Process
Consultation & Review — Assess your concerns and examine the estate/trust documents.
Investigation — Gather facts, financial records, and witness testimony.
Strategy — Determine whether to pursue negotiation, mediation, or formal litigation.
Resolution — Secure a fair outcome through settlement or court order.
CTA: Protect Your Rights
Pennsylvania-Focused FAQs
Can I contest a will in Pennsylvania?
Yes, if you have legal standing and valid grounds such as undue influence, fraud, lack of capacity, or improper execution. Petitions must be filed promptly after probate begins.
What if an executor or trustee is mishandling the estate?
You can petition the Orphans’ Court to compel an accounting, surcharge the fiduciary for losses, or remove them entirely.
Do I need to live in Pennsylvania to challenge a will or trust here?
No. If the decedent resided in PA or property is located here, you may file in the appropriate county even if you live elsewhere.
How long do I have to bring a dispute?
Deadlines vary depending on the claim—many must be filed within months of probate or notice. Prompt action is critical.
Can disputes be resolved without going to trial?
Yes. Many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation, saving time and reducing conflict while still protecting rights.
Service Areas
We represent beneficiaries and fiduciaries in Wayne, the Main Line, and greater Philadelphia: Wayne, Bryn Mawr, Villanova, Radnor, Devon, Berwyn, Paoli, Malvern, Ardmore, Haverford, Media, West Chester, King of Prussia, Conshohocken, Lafayette Hill, Blue Bell, Phoenixville, Gladwyne, Bala Cynwyd, Lower Merion, Upper Merion—and provide statewide representation via Zoom.
Next Steps
If you believe your inheritance rights are at risk, don’t wait.
Schedule a Case Evaluation
Learn More About Will Contests
Primary CTA: Schedule a Case Evaluation
Secondary CTA: Learn About Will Contests
Common Scenarios
A spouse passes away and the surviving spouse needs to probate the will and retitle assets.
A parent dies without a will and children must navigate intestate succession.
A family member is named executor but doesn’t know where to begin.
Beneficiaries suspect mismanagement and want oversight or representation.
Out-of-state executors need help administering a Pennsylvania estate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does probate take in Pennsylvania?
Most estates close in 6–12 months, but disputes or complex assets can extend the process.
Do all estates require probate in PA?
Not always. Small estates may qualify for simplified administration, and assets with joint ownership or designated beneficiaries pass outside probate.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Pennsylvania?
The estate follows intestate succession laws. Spouses and children inherit first, followed by parents, siblings, and other relatives. The Orphans’ Court appoints an administrator.
Can executors be compensated?
Yes. Executors are entitled to reasonable compensation approved by the court or agreed by beneficiaries.
Can probate be avoided?
Certain assets (like those held in a revocable trust or with designated beneficiaries) avoid probate. We can review options to minimize probate in future planning
What You’ll Leave With
A clear timeline of tasks and deadlines.
Legal guidance for filings with the Register of Wills and Orphans’ Court and Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.
Support for inheritance tax and income tax filings.
Protection from personal liability as executor.
A properly closed estate with distributions completed.
Service Areas
We proudly serve Wayne, the Main Line, and greater Philadelphia: Wayne, Bryn Mawr, Villanova, Radnor, Devon, Berwyn, Paoli, Malvern, Ardmore, Haverford, Media, West Chester, King of Prussia, Conshohocken, Lafayette Hill, Blue Bell, Phoenixville, Gladwyne, Bala Cynwyd, Lower Merion, Upper Merion—and offer statewide probate assistance via Zoom.
Next Steps
Probate and estate administration don’t have to be overwhelming.
Schedule a Probate Consultation
Download the Estate Administration Checklist
Primary CTA: Schedule a Consultation
Secondary CTA: Download the Checklist
