Knowledgeable Swarthmore Probate Law Firm Settles Decedents’ Estates

Pennsylvania attorney provides advice and representation for executors and administrators

If you have recently lost a loved one, you’ve no doubt heard the word “probate” used in relation to your loved one’s estate. “Probate” can refer: (1) to the court process of validating a will so an executor can implement the decedent’s wishes; or (2) if there is not a Will, “probate” can refer to the oversight the court provides for an estate administrator who settles an intestate estate. Whether a Will exists or not, the process of settling an estate can be complex, so the person who assumes the duties of administering the estate may need the advice of a knowledgeable probate lawyer.

Rosalie Spelman, Esq. has extensive experience advising clients acting as executors and administrators. Executors and administrators need sound guidance, since Pennsylvania law can hold them personally liable for losses in the value of estate assets due to errors or misconduct. Rosalie Spelman, Esq. can guide you through the complex process quickly and efficiently, so you maximize the value of the estate for your loved one’s heirs.

Choices made in the course of an estate administration can affect the future of the beneficiaries. Rosalie Spelman, as part of the estate administration process, can provide critical advice on future asset protection.

Rosalie Spelman, Esq. personally guides you through every step of the probate process.

Steps in probate may include:

Filing the Will with the Register of Wills in the appropriate county.
If there is no Will, facilitating a family agreement as to who should act as the estate administrator.
Getting the executor or estate administrator sworn in by the county Register of Wills.
Developing the best strategy for fairly and expeditiously settling the estate.
Finding and assembling assets.
Pay creditors and claimants.
Collecting amounts owed the estate.
Closing and opening bank accounts.
Transferring assets from the deceased to the estate or to the beneficiaries.
Paying current and delinquent taxes as well as estate taxes.
Valuing, managing, preserving and liquidating the estate.
Locating beneficiaries.
Investigating possible causes of action.
Hiring experts, when appropriate.
Planning for the future.

Valuing assets within the estate

When appropriate, Rosalie Spelman, Esq. calls upon accountants, financial advisors, real estate agents, property managers and other professionals to assist with executor duties. They can provide expert opinions about unique assets such as antiques, rare books, automobiles and other collectables for accurate valuation, management and possible sale.

Capable management of probate disputes

Even in apparently straightforward estate cases, there are sometimes disputes among beneficiaries or between certain beneficiaries and the executor/administrator. Rosalie Spelman, an experienced litigator, is prepared to represent clients by negotiating with opposing counsel or appearing in court.

Contact Rosalie Spelman Law

Rosalie Spelman Law provides probate services in Delaware County, Montgomery County, Philadelphia County, Chester County and throughout Pennsylvania.
Call (484) 472-7209 or contact the firm online to schedule a consultation.