What Happens if Someone Dies Without a Will in Pennsylvania?
While many people are not always willing to begin the estate planning process, it is important to recognize that it is one of the most important decisions anyone can make. Fortunately, our experienced Butler County will preparation attorney and other legal team members have devoted our practice to helping individuals through each step of the estate planning process, no matter their age, financial standing, or otherwise. Read on to learn more about the importance of creating a will and how our firm can help you and your family acquire the peace of mind you need. Below are some of the questions you may have:
Why should I create a will?
By writing a will, you are setting the standards for how many of your assets will be allocated and to whom, which can help prevent severe issues and possible disputes between family members after your death. Also, constructing a will guarantees that you have selected an executor to manage the administration of your estate. Ultimately, if you pass on without creating a will, it means that you have died intestate, which initiates intestate succession. Basically, when this occurs, only blood relatives, your spouse, or a registered domestic partner can inherit your assets. Keep in mind that this excludes friends and other relatives that you could have wanted to acquire assets upon your death.
What are the benefits of establishing guardianship in a will?
As a parent, it is critical that you create a will no matter what your financial circumstances are. This is because, with a will, you can appoint guardians to take care of your children, in the event that something ever happens to you and your spouse. Even though no parent ever wants to consider not being able to care for and be there for their children, it is always best to prepare for the worst-case scenario. If you do not establish guardians (those who you trust to care for and raise your children responsibly and according to your wishes) the courts will select a guardian on your behalf after your passing. The courts will do their best to pick your child’s guardian on the ground of his or her best interests, however, nobody understands your child’s best interests as you do. Creating guardianship can stop your child from slipping into the wrong hands. It is in your best interest to reach out to our firm today if you would like to begin the will writing process. Our firm is here to help.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM
Whether you are dealing with matters involving estate planning, estate administration, or elder law, you need a legal team you can feel confident will represent your best interests, every step of the way. We are that legal team. Contact Heritage Elder Law & Estate Planning today so we can get started.
