How to Verify and Probate an Old Will in Pennsylvania
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified Pennsylvania attorney for advice on your specific situation. Detailed Answer Discovering an original will decades after execution can feel overwhelming. Pennsylvania law does not bar you from probating a will solely because of a delay. However, you […]
Read article →How Do Intestacy Rules Apply if No Valid Will Is Found in Pennsylvania?
Detailed Answer When a person dies without a valid will, Pennsylvania’s intestacy statutes determine who inherits the estate. These rules—found in 20 Pa.C.S. §§ 2101–2107—create a hierarchy of heirs and divide assets accordingly. Below is an overview of how intestate succession works in Pennsylvania and the statute references you can review for more detail. 1. […]
Read article →How to Verify if a Decedent Had a Valid Will in Pennsylvania (PA)
Detailed Answer When someone dies in Pennsylvania, you must find out if they left a valid will or other estate planning documents. A valid will controls how their assets distribute. If you cannot find it, state law sets default rules for property transfer under intestacy. 1. Search the Register of WillsEach Pennsylvania county has a […]
Read article →What Steps Are Needed to Include Real Property in an Estate Successfully in Pennsylvania?
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer: Steps to Include Real Property in a Pennsylvania Estate Including real property in your estate in Pennsylvania requires careful planning and compliance with state law. Below are the key steps: Verify Current Ownership: Review the deed to confirm fee […]
Read article →How Can an Interested Party Determine if Surplus Funds Remain After a Foreclosure Sale in Pennsylvania?
Detailed Answer When a sheriff conducts a foreclosure sale in Pennsylvania, sale proceeds first cover the mortgage debt, accrued interest, court costs, and junior liens. If the sale generates more funds than owed, the excess is known as surplus funds or overage. Pennsylvania law sets forth the steps for identifying and claiming these funds under […]
Read article →What rights does a life estate grant to a lifetime beneficiary and how is a remainder interest determined when a will designates a remainderman in PA?
Detailed Answer Under Pennsylvania law, a life estate grants a lifetime beneficiary—called a life tenant—the right to possess and use the property for the duration of their life. The life tenant may: Live on or rent the property and collect income from it. Make ordinary repairs and spend reasonable sums for maintenance. Not commit waste […]
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