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Estates & Probate
The loss of a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of navigating legal and financial responsibilities. Probate and estate administration involve important steps that must be completed to settle a person’s affairs, transfer assets, and fulfill their final wishes.
Attorney Jason Costanzo helps executors, administrators, and families navigate the probate process with clarity and confidence.
Common Questions About Estates & Probate
What Is Probate?
Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered.
Depending on the circumstances, probate may involve:
- Filing necessary documents with the Register of Wills
- Identifying and valuing assets
- Notifying beneficiaries and creditors
- Paying debts and taxes
- Distributing assets to heirs and beneficiaries
- Closing the estate
Not every asset passes through probate. Certain assets, such as jointly owned property or accounts with designated beneficiaries, may transfer outside of the probate process.
What Is Estate Administration?
Estate administration refers to the overall process of settling a person’s affairs after death. The individual responsible for managing the estate is commonly known as an Executor (if named in a Will) or an Administrator (if there is no Will). Their duties often include collecting assets, maintaining records, paying obligations, and ensuring that distributions are made properly.
What Happens If There Is No Will?
When someone dies without a valid Will, Pennsylvania’s intestacy laws determine how assets are distributed among surviving family members.
How Long Does Probate Take?
The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the estate. Simple estates may be resolved relatively quickly, while larger or contested estates often require additional time.
Can Probate Be Avoided?
Some assets may pass outside of probate through beneficiary designations, trusts, or joint ownership arrangements. Proper estate planning can often reduce the scope of probate proceedings.
Do I need an attorney for Probate or Estate Administration?
While Pennsylvania law does not require every estate to retain legal counsel, probate and estate administration involve important legal and fiduciary responsibilities.
An attorney can help ensure that deadlines are met, required filings are completed properly, and the estate is administered efficiently and in accordance with Pennsylvania law.
If you have recently lost a loved one or have questions about administering an estate, contact Attorney Jason Costanzo for guidance through the probate process.
Practice Areas
Wills
A will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and allows you to name guardians for minor children, giving clarity and peace of mind to your loved ones.
Trusts
Trusts offer greater control, privacy, and flexibility over how and when your assets are managed and distributed, often helping families avoid probate and reduce taxes.
Estates & Probate
Estate and probate administration helps families navigate the legal process of settling a loved one’s affairs, transferring assets, and carrying out their final wishes.
Powers of Attorney
A power of attorney allows someone you trust to handle financial and legal matters on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself.
Advanced Healthcare Proxies
An advance healthcare proxy designates a trusted individual to make medical decisions for you if you cannot communicate your wishes.
Special Needs & Disability Planning
Special needs and disability planning helps protect loved ones, preserve eligibility for government benefits, and ensure long-term financial and personal care needs are met.
Protect your family. Preserve your legacy.
Let our dedicated team work for you.
