Pennsylvania Probate Attorney

Guiding Families Through Probate with Clarity, Compassion, and Confidence

When a loved one passes away, legal paperwork should be the last thing on your mind. But navigating probate in Pennsylvania can be confusing, overwhelming, and emotionally draining—especially if you're the one responsible for managing the estate. At Northstar Legal Services, we provide trusted legal support during this difficult time. Attorney Tom McGlaughlin walks you through the probate process with empathy, efficiency, and clear guidance so you can focus on what matters most.

What Is Probate and Why Does It Matter?

Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person’s estate. It involves validating the will, identifying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property to heirs. In Pennsylvania, probate is typically handled through the Register of Wills in the county where the decedent lived. Whether there is a will or not, probate ensures that the estate is distributed legally and fairly. We help executors and families manage this process from start to finish, avoiding delays, disputes, and costly mistakes.

The Probate Administration Process

We guide you through each step of opening, managing, and closing an estate with legal precision and efficiency.

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Contested Wills & Estate Litigation

When disputes arise, we protect your rights and fight for a fair resolution—whether defending or challenging a will.

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Small Estate Affidavits & Probate Alternatives

Qualify for Pennsylvania’s simplified probate process? We prepare affidavits and advise on informal solutions that save time and money.

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Helping Executors and Families Handle Probate with Confidence

At Northstar Legal Services, we help personal representatives and loved ones complete their duties under Pennsylvania law. With virtual and mobile services available, we make probate more accessible, wherever you are in the state. We guide you through each step, from petitioning the Register of Wills to preparing final accountings and distributing assets, ensuring every legal requirement is met with care.

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Initial Probate Petition

We prepare and file the necessary documents to open probate with the appropriate Register of Wills.

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Executor Guidance & Coaching

We help executors understand their responsibilities and avoid personal liability.

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Asset Inventory & Valuation

We assist with identifying, documenting, and valuing all estate assets.

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Creditor Notices & Debt Resolution

We notify potential creditors and help resolve outstanding debts and tax obligations.

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Distribution of Assets

We prepare legal documents to ensure assets are transferred to heirs properly and legally.

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Probate for Small Estates

We evaluate whether the estate qualifies for Pennsylvania’s simplified probate options.

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Intestate Probate (No Will)

We help families navigate probate when a loved one dies without a valid will.

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Final Accounting & Court Filings

We prepare and file all closing documentation and ensure all legal duties are fulfilled.

Answers to Your Most Pressing Probate Questions

  • What is probate, and when is it required in Pennsylvania?

    Probate is the legal process of validating a will, appointing an executor, paying debts, and distributing assets after someone passes away. In Pennsylvania, probate is generally required if the decedent owned assets solely in their name. We help executors and families navigate the probate process efficiently, ensuring compliance with local court rules and minimizing stress during an already difficult time.

  • How long does the probate process usually take in Pennsylvania?

    On average, probate can take 9 to 15 months, depending on the size of the estate, whether there’s a will, and if any disputes arise. Small estates may be resolved faster using simplified procedures. At Northstar Legal Services, we handle the filings, court appearances, and legal notifications to keep the process on track for clients in Elizabethtown, Lancaster, and surrounding areas.

  • What are an executor’s responsibilities during probate?

    An executor must file the will, notify heirs and creditors, collect and safeguard assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining estate. They must also maintain detailed records and file a final accounting with the court. We work closely with executors to provide legal guidance at every step and reduce the risk of mistakes or personal liability.

  • Can a will be contested in Pennsylvania—and if so, on what grounds?

    Yes, a will can be challenged on several grounds, including lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution. Disputes are more common when large estates, second marriages, or disinherited heirs are involved. As experienced contested will attorneys, we represent clients in both defending and challenging wills in probate courts across Central PA.

  • Are there faster alternatives to probate for small estates in Pennsylvania?

    Yes. If the estate is valued under $50,000 (excluding real estate), Pennsylvania allows for a simplified procedure using a small estate affidavit. This process avoids full probate court involvement. We evaluate whether your situation qualifies and handle the preparation and filing of affidavits to streamline the estate settlement process.