How Do I Obtain a Copy of a Will in North Carolina? - Pennsylvania
The Short Answer
In Pennsylvania, you typically obtain a copy of a will from the Register of Wills in the county where the decedent lived (or where property is located), but access usually depends on whether the will has been probated (filed with the Register). Once a will is probated, it is recorded and kept by the Register of Wills, and copies are generally obtainable through that office.
What Pennsylvania Law Says
In Pennsylvania, the Register of Wills is the office that handles probate filings. If a will has been admitted to probate, it becomes part of the Register’s official records—meaning it is indexed, recorded, and maintained in that office. If you are trying to locate the correct office, Pennsylvania law generally ties probate to the county of the decedent’s last residence.
The Statute
The primary law governing this issue is 20 Pa.C.S. § 921.
This statute establishes that all probated wills must be indexed and recorded by the register and remain in the register’s office (except when temporarily in a higher court’s custody).
Why You Should Speak with an Attorney
While the statute provides the general rule, applying it to your specific situation is rarely simple. Legal outcomes often depend on:
- Strict Deadlines: If there is a dispute about the will or concerns about a later will, timing can matter quickly once probate begins and notices go out.
- Burden of Proof: If someone is withholding the will, or you suspect an invalid will, you may need evidence and formal legal action to force production or challenge what was filed.
- Exceptions: If the will has not been probated yet, or it was probated in another state/country, different rules can apply about what can be filed and what records are available.
Trying to handle this alone can lead to delays, missed opportunities to protect your inheritance rights, or unnecessary conflict with the executor or family members.
Get Connected with a Pennsylvania Attorney
Do not leave your legal outcome to chance. We can connect you with a pre-screened Probate attorney in Pennsylvania to discuss your specific facts and options.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Pennsylvania law and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed attorney.