Probate
Guiding families through probate and estate administration in Schuylkill County.
Overview
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without the added burden of navigating the legal process of settling their estate. At Holman & Pitts Law, we guide executors and administrators through every step of the probate process in Schuylkill County - from filing with the Register of Wills to final distribution of assets. Our knowledge of local procedures helps ensure a smoother, more efficient process during a difficult time.
Our Probate Services Include:
- Probate of wills with the Register of Wills
- Letters testamentary and letters of administration
- Estate inventory and asset identification
- Creditor notification and claims management
- Estate tax filings (PA inheritance tax)
- Asset distribution to beneficiaries
- Will contests and estate disputes
- Small estate proceedings
Why Choose Holman & Pitts Law?
We know Schuylkill County's Register of Wills office and Orphans' Court procedures. Our local knowledge means fewer delays and a smoother process for your family. We handle the legal complexities while you focus on honoring your loved one's memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Simple estates can be settled in 6-9 months, while more complex estates involving real property, business interests, or disputes may take 12-18 months or longer. Pennsylvania requires creditors be given at least one year to file claims, but estate administration can begin immediately.
Probate is required for assets held solely in the deceased person's name without a beneficiary designation. Assets in joint names, accounts with named beneficiaries, and assets in trusts typically pass outside of probate. Our attorneys help you determine what assets require probate.
Pennsylvania imposes an inheritance tax on most assets passing at death: 0% for transfers to a surviving spouse, 4.5% to lineal descendants (children, grandchildren), 12% to siblings, and 15% to all others. Certain exemptions apply. Our attorneys help minimize the tax burden where possible.