Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

If mom is still living, she should consult with a lawyer to find out how to leave her assets to whom she wants. There is generally no particular reason to avoid probate in PA.

If mom has passed, there is probably no way to avoid probating her estate, paying all taxes [income, inheritance, etc., and paying her other debts, before anything may be done with assets in her estate. If there was a will, it will govern who administers the estate and to whom assets are bequeathed. If there was no will, her assets will pass according to the PA intestate law.

Your mother's surviving spouse, if any, and you and your siblings should consult with a lawyer to find out how to proceed.

This response is not legal advice, since I do not have all of the information that would be required, and I do not have a representation agreement with you.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

* Another reason for contacting a lawyer is that it is often impossible to give a good answer in the Internet Q&A format without having more information. The unique circumstances of your situation and things that you may not have thought to mention in your question may completely change the answer. If you want to be sure that you have a complete answer to your question and an understanding of what that answer means, establish a connection with a lawyer who practices in the area of your concern.