For Estate Planning, There Is No “One Size Fits All”

No two families are the same. Your family deserves a personal approach to your future. We know that helping to preserve the estate assets of a homestead in Woodbury is just as important as setting up the right business succession plan for the owner of a family business in Hollidaysburg. Estate planning isn’t just about making sure the right people receive the right things. It is about making sure that your loved ones are protected from the devastating effects of probate court decisions, inheritance taxes, nursing home admissions and unforeseen disputes upon your death.

Choosing A Will Or A Trust

Part of our commitment to you and your family is making sure you have all the information you need to make the best possible decisions for your family. A well-informed decision prevents long, expensive litigation later and lets your family focus on thriving.

Call our office or email us to set up your appointment. If you cannot make it to us, do not worry. We will come to you. Reach our office by dialing 814-317-6914.

As a highlight about the general differences between a will and a trust, you should know:

• Wills are one of the best options for establishing guardianship for children. Trusts cannot do this task.
• Wills can do relatively straightforward allocations quickly, but are subject to probate; nonetheless, probate is not an expensive process in Pennsylvania.
• A trust can provide protection for certain vulnerable family members such as disabled children or those who have difficulty managing money.
• A trust can be used to shield assets from the government and can be in operation during your lifetime.

There are many reasons to choose an estate plan strategy. After 70 years in business and with combined 150 years of experience, our attorneys are prepared for your estate planning needs.

What To Do When Conflict Arises

We can also help your family deal with the probate law issues that may arise following the death of the estate holder. Your attorney at Evey Black Attorneys LLC will work closely with you to represent your interests in probate court. We handle every legal detail, including probate, assisting in the transfer of assets, working with creditors, preparing inheritance tax returns, working to resolve disputes among beneficiaries and handling the details of any contractual obligations that might be outstanding. Our lawyers know that what you need most following the death of a loved one is compassion, responsiveness to your needs, and the time to grieve and heal. We handle the estate details so you can focus on your family’s needs.

FAQs: Wills And Trusts In Pennsylvania

Estate planning involves important decisions about your legacy, loved ones and future. It is natural to have questions and concerns. The answers below can help you understand these crucial documents, leading to informed decision-making.

Does the county Register of Wills keep my will on file in Pennsylvania?

No. The Register of Wills does not store wills for living individuals. Original wills are typically kept by your attorney, in a safe deposit box or with your personal records. The Register only accepts a will for probate after death.

Can a will be contested? Who can contest a will?

Yes. A will may be contested based on lack of testator capacity, undue influence, fraud or improper execution. Only individuals with legal standing, such as heirs, prior beneficiaries or those who would inherit under intestacy, may file a challenge in Orphans’ Court, generally within one year of probate.

Do I need a will if I have a trust?

Yes, you still need a will. Your will complements your trust(s) by naming guardians for minor children, appointing an executor and covering assets not titled in the trust. Without a will, any property outside the trust may be distributed under Pennsylvania’s intestacy laws and could clash with your preferences.

What are the common types of trusts in Pennsylvania?

Trusts serve different purposes, from avoiding probate to protecting beneficiaries. Common types include:

• Revocable living trust: Lets the grantor retain control and amend the trust during life and its assets avoid probate but remain taxable
• Irrevocable trust: Offers asset protection and potential tax benefits, but cannot be altered without beneficiary or court approval
• Special needs trust: Preserves eligibility for public benefits while providing supplemental support for a disabled beneficiary
• Spendthrift trust: Shields assets from creditors and prevents beneficiaries from misusing their inheritance

Each trust type offers distinct benefits depending on your goals. An estate planning attorney with Evey Black Attorneys LLC can help you choose the right trust for your unique needs.

We Can Help Protect Your Legacy And Your Loved Ones. Contact Us Today.

For your convenience, you can reach our firm by completing our online form or by calling 814-317-6914. During your initial consultation, we invite you to share your concerns with us and will offer our recommendations based on your unique circumstances.