Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

Father's Death: Are the Daughters Responsible?

I am 24 years old and have a 26 year old sister. Our father has not had anything to do with the two of us for at least 17 years. He has not paid child support or exercised his visitation rights. He recently passed away and his 90 year old mother (our grandmother) has contacted both of us and told us that our father's name was on the deed to her house and that he owned a van. She said that the two of us are responsible for handling the estate and that we need to get an attorney. Neither one of us want any part of her house, his van, or anything else that belonged to him or his family. Our father did not have any kind of will, insurance policies, power of attorney, or anything. It is my understanding that he recently was released from prison due to a repeat driving under the influence charge. Is there any way that we can sign papers waiving our right to any property to the family? Is it true that my sister and I are responsible for handling this? We don't even know the man. Thank you


Asked on 7/18/05, 8:09 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

Re: Father's Death: Are the Daughters Responsible?

While you and your sister are the natural candidates to be granted letters of administration to dispose of the estate and are the natural heirs to inherit the estate you are under no legal obligation to do anything. Prior to forfiting what could be a substantial inheritance I would suggest taking a period of time to consider what it would mean to you. I would also suggest speaking to a lawyer to discuss the process of probate and what it involves. I offer free consultations.

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Answered on 7/18/05, 8:59 pm


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