Securing Wrongful-Death Settlement Proceeds in Pennsylvania
Detailed Answer This guide explains how to secure wrongful-death settlement funds through the court system in Pennsylvania. It assumes you have a pending wrongful-death claim under Pennsylvania law and need a reliable way to protect settlement proceeds until the court approves distribution. This is educational information only and not legal advice. What law controls wrongful-death […]
Read article →Pennsylvania: When Escrow or Trust Funds Can Be Released Before a Deed Is Recorded
Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal advice. I am not a lawyer. For advice about a specific transaction, consult a licensed Pennsylvania real estate attorney or your escrow/title agent. Detailed Answer — How release of trust/escrow funds typically works in Pennsylvania When a buyer and seller close a real estate transaction, a neutral third […]
Read article →Pennsylvania — What Happens If a Will Was Not Properly Signed During Probate?
Pennsylvania: If a Will Was Not Properly Signed — FAQ and Next Steps Short answer: Under Pennsylvania law, a will that was not executed according to the formal requirements is at risk of being held invalid. If the court rules the will invalid, the estate will either be distributed under an earlier valid will (if […]
Read article →Pennsylvania: Forcing a Surviving Spouse to Sell a House and Distribute the Proceeds Under a Will
Detailed Answer Short answer: If the decedent owned the house in his or her name alone and the will directs that the house be sold and the proceeds distributed, the personal representative (executor) can petition the probate/Orphans' Court to carry out that instruction. If the surviving spouse has statutory rights (for example, an election against […]
Read article →How to Be Appointed When a Named Executor Refuses — Pennsylvania Guide
How someone else can be appointed when a named executor refuses to serve — Pennsylvania guide Quick overview: If a will names an executor who declines or refuses to serve, Pennsylvania courts can appoint someone else to handle the estate. That person is commonly appointed as an "administrator with the will annexed" (often called an […]
Read article →Do I Need to Attend a Minor Settlement Hearing in Pennsylvania?
Do I Have To Attend a Court Hearing for a Minor’s Settlement? What to Expect in Pennsylvania Short answer: Often yes — but not always. Pennsylvania courts commonly require formal court approval for many settlements that involve minors. Whether you must appear depends on the court, the type of settlement, and whether the judge needs […]
Read article →Pennsylvania: What a Guardian ad Litem Does in a Minor Injury Settlement — and Whether You Can Serve
How a Guardian ad Litem Protects a Minor’s Interests in Pennsylvania Injury Settlements Quick summary: Pennsylvania courts must approve most settlements on behalf of minors. A guardian ad litem (GAL) can be appointed to represent the minor’s best interests during settlement negotiations and at the court hearing. Whether you can serve as the GAL depends […]
Read article →Pennsylvania: How to Get Court Approval for a Minor's Personal Injury Settlement
Detailed answer: How court approval of a minor’s personal-injury settlement typically works in Pennsylvania Short overview: When an injury claim belongs to a minor, Pennsylvania courts usually must approve any settlement to protect the child’s legal and financial interests. The court reviews the proposed deal, makes sure the outcome is fair, resolves liens and fees, […]
Read article →Understanding Medical Liens and How They Affect Your Settlement in Pennsylvania
What Medical Liens Mean and How They Can Affect Your Settlement Short answer: A medical lien is a claim by a health care provider, insurer, or government program against the money you recover from a personal-injury settlement. Liens can reduce the amount you actually get, and some types have strict rules and timelines. This article […]
Read article →How to Apply to Serve as Administrator of a Parent's Intestate Estate in Pennsylvania
Overview If your parent died without a will in Pennsylvania, you can ask the court to appoint you to manage their estate so assets can be collected, debts paid, and property distributed to heirs. This article explains the common steps, who has priority to serve, typical documents you will need, and what duties the administrator […]
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