Contesting a will means that you question the validity of it. You feel there is something in the will that is not legal or that the creation of the will somehow violates the law. When you contest a will, it occurs during probate. It will stop probate matters because...
Estate Planning
Should you compose a power of attorney early?
It is natural to feel wary about creating a power of attorney. The idea of turning over your decision making powers to someone else is not something to take lightly. Still, a power of attorney can be crucial and you want to have it ready at the earliest possible time....
Is it possible to limit your estate tax liability?
An important part of the estate planning process in Pennsylvania is preparing to minimize any liabilities your estate may face upon your death. You can take steps to settle debts and avoid probate, but one expense that may seem inevitable is taxes. Fortunately, there...
A comprehensive estate plan can address special circumstances
For Pennsylvania residents with assets, having a formal estate plan ensures that property goes to whom or where the owner wishes instead of the probate court making the decision. If you have a family, financial accounts, real estate and vehicle, a will is the first...
What should I expect when contesting a will?
Being cut out of a loved one's will has many effects, both emotional and financial. You may feel wronged by the decision, especially if you were close to the person. You may also be concerned that the person's wishes are not being followed by other family members,...
When should you update your estate plan?
Pennsylvania residents like you who already have an estate plan are one step ahead of the rest. But estate plan management does not stop at the creation of the plan. You must also update it often. An estate plan must reflect your life at its most current point. But...
The importance of witnesses in signing wills
It is not enough to compose and sign a will to make it a binding legal document. To protect against forgeries and fraud, Pennsylvania law also requires that a person who makes a will, known as a testator, should perform this act while in the presence of two witnesses...
What to know about advance health care directives
For the aging population, figuring out what to do if or when health declines becomes more of a priority. To have the most control in the event of incapacitation, or at the end of life, part of estate planning includes filling out an advance health care directive. This...
What is most important in an executor?
When Pennsylvania residents get started on estate planning, it is somewhat overwhelming. What should you take care of first? Where should you start? Today we will look at these complex questions and the possible answers to them. We will start with picking an executor...
ESTATE PLANNING IS THE MUST HAVE 2016 RESOLUTION
A New Year means new goals. Besides drinking less and working out more, most Americans do not consider updating their estate planning documents after the first of January rolls around. While this may seem more dreadful than the elliptical, it doesn't have to be. If...