Frequently Asked Question: What Does “Reading of the Will” Actually Mean in North Carolina? - Pennsylvania
The Short Answer
In Pennsylvania, there is generally no formal, courtroom-style “reading of the will” that families are required to attend. Instead, the will is typically submitted to the county Register of Wills for probate, and interested people usually learn the contents through the probate process and required notices—not a ceremonial event.
What Pennsylvania Law Says
When someone dies with a will, Pennsylvania law focuses on getting the will probated (proved and accepted) by the Register of Wills in the proper county. Once the will is probated and an executor is authorized, the estate administration process begins, which is when beneficiaries and heirs typically receive information and notices about the estate.
The Statute
The primary law governing where a will must be probated is 20 Pa.C.S. § 3131.
This statute establishes that a Pennsylvania decedent’s will is probated before the Register of Wills in the county of the decedent’s last family or principal residence (or, for non-domiciliaries, a county where property is located).
Why You Should Speak with an Attorney
Even though “reading of the will” is mostly a myth, disputes and mistakes in probate are very real—and they can cost families time and money. Legal outcomes often depend on:
- Strict Deadlines: Key probate events are tied to timing requirements (for example, Pennsylvania law sets a time limit for offering a will for probate). See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3133.
- Burden of Proof: A will must be properly proved to the Register of Wills, and proof issues can arise if witnesses are unavailable or the will has unusual features. See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3132.
- Exceptions and Disputes: Questions about who must be notified, who has standing to object, and what happens if someone claims the will is invalid can quickly turn into litigation in Orphans’ Court.
Trying to handle probate informally—especially when family relationships are strained or assets are significant—can lead to avoidable conflict, personal liability for the executor, or delays in distributions.
Get Connected with a Pennsylvania Attorney
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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.