FAQ
ESTATE PLANNING
WHAT IS PROBATE?
Probate is the legal process through which a decedent’s estate is administered by the person named as executor or personal representative in the original Will. This is done by submitting the original will, death certificate, and petition to the Register of Wills. If the will has been properly notarized, the Register of Wills will grant Letters Testamentary to the personal representative.
What’s the difference between a Will and a Trust?
A will is a document that specifies how you want your assets distributed after you pass away and only takes effect after death. A Trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee holds and manages assets on behalf of beneficiaries either during your lifetime or after death. Trusts offer more control and privacy as probate is avoided.
What if someone dies without a Will?
Intestacy is when a person dies without a Will in place. When this happens, the decedent’s property will pass under Pennsylvania’s Intestate Succession Act. The person appointed by the Register of Wills to act as the estate administrator will receive Letters of Administration.
PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE
At what point do I need an attorney if I’m at risk for discipline of my license?
You should reach out to an attorney any time you receive correspondence or notice from the board. OR you believe you have potentially violated the legal requirements of your license. Professional licensure defense is a small practice area of law, meaning, not many attorneys are familiar with how Board discipline works. There are 29 professional licensing boards, therefore, speak with an attorney who has the experience and understands the process.