Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania
Is an out of wedlock child entitle to inheritance
I am 34 years old and never seen my father. I find the man my mother says is my father denies me. He was married to another woman when I was concieved. He is still married and has his own family. They know nothing of my existence. If after DNA testing he is proved to be my father am I entitle to any of his estate. He is still living. He does seem to have a sizable estate. Although he denies paternity he has contributed money to my mother but it amounts to less than $5000 in 34 years. I grew up poor and an only child. I want to know if he is responsible monetarily in any way should he be my father. That is currently while he is living or if I am entitle to inheritance after he passes. He lives in Pennsylvania and I live in Texas.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Is an out of wedlock child entitle to inheritance
As your father's child, you are entitled to an equal share like his other children of his estate upon his death. Your problem may be receiving notice of his death in order to make your claim. If you think he is a wealthy man, you should retain a lawyer to pursue your claim, because distribution to his family prior to death may increase your share at the time of his death.