Losing a Loved One Can Seem Overwhelming...

The estate administration process which follows should not be.

When a loved one has passed away, there are often many steps which must be completed in order to conclude his or her affairs appropriately. In addition to grief and funeral arrangements, many people who’ve recently lost a loved one find themselves dealing with unexpected medical expenses, funerary costs, and leftover tax obligations.

The experts at Petrillo Jones, LLC can’t take away your pain – however, we can help put your mind at ease when dealing with the legal matters often encountered after losing a loved one.

We come backed by decades of experience helping Western Pennsylvania families settle their estate-related affairs – our team of expert partners will guide you through the process, easing the strain on you during this hectic and troubling time.

Probate / Estate Administration

Estate Administration

Estate Administration is the process of managing the estate of a deceased person. Paying any remaining debts or taxes and distributing possessions or assets to the proper heirs of the deceased fall under the blanket concept of estate administration.
Probate / Estate Administration

Probate Law

Probate Law is the court process whereby the assets of someone who has passed away are transferred to that person’s legal heirs as dictated by that person's Will. Without an extensive legal knowledge, the probate process can be quite difficult.

Lean on us

Many people don't realize how important it is to seek the advice of an attorney as soon as possible. When a loved one dies, there are many steps which must be taken in a time sensitive manner.

Assets of the deceased are distributed either under a Will, or through Pennsylvania intestacy laws when the deceased does not have a Will.

Intestacy law is not the ideal way for estate administration to occur for anyone, but you stand a much better chance at a positive outcome with a solid legal team at your back.

The attorneys of Petrillo Jones, LLC can guide the Executor or Personal Representative in assuring that all property transfers, taxes, etc. have been addressed. We have decades of experience across the state of Pennsylvania - we fully understand and regularly work with PA estate administration and intestacy laws.

The process does not have to be a long one, nor does it have to be stressful. Our attorneys have the experience and expertise to guide your every step along the way. Clients will work directly with our attorneys as we guide you through each step of the estate administration and probate process. Our firm handles all types of estate administration matters throughout Western Pennsylvania, including those for longtime clients as well as people whom we have never served before.

Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax

Pursuant to Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax laws, when property passes from a decedent to a beneficiary, an inheritance tax return and payment thereof becomes necessary in most cases. There is no tax required when property passes between spouses, but sometimes a return should be filed when probate has been opened to transfer certain types of property. Transfer tax of 4.5% is due between decedents and lineal descendants (children, grandchildren etc.). Other rates apply for other relatives and non-relatives. It is important to seek the advice of an attorney to clarify various tax circumstances and to assure timely filing to avoid interest and to become eligible for early filing discounts.

Let Us Help

Trust in the expertise and support of the Attorneys at Petrillo Jones - let us guide you during this difficult time.