Specialized Estate Planning Services in Pennsylvania

Specialized Estate Planning Services in Pennsylvania

Not every family fits a “traditional” estate plan. At Chadwick Estate Law, we address unique planning needs—from blended families to business owners to couples seeking premarital agreements. We also offer virtual planning statewide, making sophisticated estate services accessible wherever you live in Pennsylvania.

With advanced training in tax and trust law from Georgetown University Law Center and experience advising complex estates at an AmLaw 100 firm, Bass Chadwick provides tailored strategies for families whose needs go beyond the basics.

Primary CTA: Schedule a Consultation
Secondary CTA: Download the Estate Planning Questionnaire

Blended Family Planning

Second marriages, stepchildren, and multi-branch families often create tension in estate planning. Without careful drafting, unintended disinheritance or conflict may arise.

We design plans that:

  • Provide for your spouse while protecting children from a prior marriage.

  • Use trusts to balance fairness and security.

  • Reduce opportunities for litigation in the Orphans’ Court.

  • Ensure inheritance flows exactly as intended across branches.

CTA: Learn More About Blended Family Planning

Business Succession Planning

If you own a closely held business, succession planning is critical. Without it, Pennsylvania intestacy or probate laws may disrupt operations and force sales.

We help business owners:

  • Identify successors (family or key employees).

  • Draft buy-sell agreements.

  • Coordinate estate and gift tax planning.

  • Preserve value during transfer to the next generation.

  • Protect family wealth tied up in business equity.

CTA: Protect Your Business Legacy

Premarital & Postmarital Agreements

Estate planning often intersects with marriage and divorce law. Premarital (prenuptial) and postnuptial agreements can clarify financial rights, prevent disputes, and protect family assets.

Our approach:

  • Draft premarital agreements tailored to estate and trust planning goals.

  • Protect inheritances and family wealth from unintended distribution.

  • Coordinate agreements with wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations.

  • Ensure compliance with Pennsylvania’s enforceability rules.

CTA: Explore Premarital Planning

Virtual Estate Planning (Statewide)

Distance shouldn’t be a barrier to proper planning. Chadwick Estate Law offers Zoom consultations and virtual estate planning services across Pennsylvania.

  • Secure document sharing.

  • Remote consultations and signing coordination.

  • Full estate plans delivered with clear instructions.

  • Accessible, efficient, and compliant with Pennsylvania law.

CTA: Schedule a Virtual Consultation

Other Specialized Services

  • Guardianship Petitions — For minors or incapacitated adults.

  • Charitable Planning — Establish charitable trusts or foundations.

  • Asset Transfer Strategies — Family gifting and lifetime wealth transfers.

Pennsylvania-Focused FAQs

How do I protect children from a first marriage while providing for my current spouse?
Through trust planning, you can ensure your spouse has financial security while preserving inheritances for children from a prior marriage.

What happens to a business if the owner dies without a plan?
The business may be subject to probate, forced sale, or disputes among heirs. A succession plan prevents disruption.

Are premarital agreements enforceable in PA?
Yes—if properly drafted and executed with full disclosure. Courts enforce fair, voluntary agreements consistent with state law.

Can estate planning really be done virtually in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Consultations, planning, and many signings can be handled remotely, with notary coordination where required.

Service Areas

We provide specialized planning services 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 offer virtual services statewide.

Next Steps

If your planning needs go beyond the basics, we can help.

  • Schedule a Consultation

  • Download the Estate Planning Questionnaire

Primary CTA: Schedule a Consultation
Secondary CTA: Download the Questionnaire

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a living trust in Wayne, PA?

If you own out-of-state property, value privacy, or want incapacity planning, a trust can be ideal.

For simple estates, a will often suffices.

How much does estate planning cost in Pennsylvania?

Wills start around $500; trusts range from $1,500–$3,000, including asset transfers. Probate

fees are often under $200 for small estates.

How long does probate take in Chester County?

Typically 9–18 months, depending on tax filings. Trusts can streamline certain steps but don’t

inherently speed up tax settlements.

Contact Chadwick Estate Law Today

Ready to protect your family’s future? Chadwick Estate Law is your local partner for estate planning in Wayne, PA, serving Chester County (West Chester, Malvern), Delaware County (Media, Radnor), Montgomery County (King of Prussia, Norristown), and Philadelphia County (Philadelphia, Center City). Schedule your free consultation today.

Call: (215) 277-0888

Email: bass@chadwickestatelaw.com

Office: Wayne, PA

Visit: chadwickestatelaw.com

Get Started Now

Let’s craft an estate plan that reflects your life and ensures your legacy. Serving the Greater Philadelphia Area with care and expertise.

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