Decedent Estates After the loss of a loved one, taking the steps needed to act as the executor or administrator of their estate may feel overwhelming. We regularly guide executors and administrators through process of estate administration through the actual distribution of the estate. In particular, we advise and assist you with legal and tax matters. These matters include compliance with notice requirements, Pennsylvania Orphans’ Court filings, the Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax Return and the Federal Estate Tax Return, when necessary. We also recommend and work with other professionals with experience in related areas, such as valuation and income tax matters.
Trusts A trust is a legal arrangement where the trustee holds and manages assets for the benefit of the beneficiary. Trusts are used for a number of purposes including management of assets for someone with special needs or who is a minor or for the purpose of more efficient tax planning. Regardless of the reason, we can assist you as the trustee with the administration of the trust including complying with notice requirements, maintaining records of the trust administration, and the appropriate distributions of trust assets. We also enlist and work with other professionals where necessary.
Guardianships We regularly represent individuals alleged to be incapacitated in guardianship proceedings.
Litigation You may find that you have questions about what you are to receive from an estate or trust. You may be worried that it is not being handled correctly. We represent personal representatives, trustees and, at times, beneficiaries with such matters as Will contests, disputed claims of creditors, the defense or initiation of a claim for the spousal elective share, the forfeiture of spousal rights, disputes among beneficiaries, disputes with the personal representative and disputes as to the appointment of the personal representative.
