Administering an estate is a complex process that involves a variety of legal, financial, and administrative tasks. In Pennsylvania, the intricacies of estate administration are such that attempting to navigate this process without professional assistance can lead to costly mistakes, legal complications, and prolonged delays. Here are several reasons why administering an estate in Pennsylvania […]

Inheritance tax can be a daunting subject, often evoking concerns about the financial implications of passing on one’s estate. In Pennsylvania, recent proposals to modify the state’s inheritance tax laws have garnered the attention of the Commonwealth’s Legislature. The proposed changes aim to alleviate some of the burdens currently imposed on beneficiaries and create a […]

When it comes to estate planning and administration, the role of an estate fiduciary is paramount. These individuals are entrusted with important responsibilities to carry out the wishes of the deceased and manage the estate’s affairs efficiently. Who are Estate Fiduciaries? Estate fiduciaries, also known as executors or trustees, are individuals appointed to manage and […]

Estate planning can be a complex and delicate matter, especially when it comes to deciding whether to establish a trust because trusts offer a variety of benefits. But they are not always the right choice for everyone or every situation. In Pennsylvania, as in many other states, understanding when it is appropriate to set up […]

As an estate planning lawyer, I’ve had numerous clients approach me with the firm belief that they need a trust as part of their estate plan. While trusts can indeed be valuable tools in some circumstances, they’re not always necessary or appropriate for everyone. In fact, many individuals may find that simpler estate planning strategies […]

First and foremost, congratulations on the arrival of your little bundle of joy! The journey of parenthood is undoubtedly one of life’s most precious and rewarding experiences. As you embark on this new chapter filled with joy, love, and endless cuddles, there is another aspect of your lives that deserves attention: estate planning. While discussing […]

When families face the aftermath of serious injuries or wrongful death of a loved one, navigating the legal complexities requires a team approach from estate and personal injury lawyers. In this blog, we will delve into how these two specialties can work in hand-in-hand to provide critical support to families during times of crisis, and […]

Bill Hutcheson was recently a guest on The Bob Parker Health & Medical Insurance Show where he discussed the importance of estate planning documents including the importance of wills, living wills, powers of attorney, and overall estate planning. Bob then asked Bill about family squabbles, will disputes and estate litigation. Lastly, they discussed estate administration, […]

Estate planning is a crucial aspect of financial management that allows individuals to ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes after they pass away. In this realm, Paid-On-Death (POD) and Transfer-On-Death (TOD) accounts stand out as valuable non-probate tools that assist account holders to distribute their assets when they pass away. This blog […]

The term “intestacy” may sound complex, but its implications are straightforward and profound when it comes to estate planning. In this blog post, we delve into the concept of intestacy, exploring what it means and why it matters in the realm of succession and inheritance. What is Intestacy? Intestacy refers to the condition that arises […]