Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

handwritten will

My brother, with the help of an online simple will, wrote a will. He signed it and dated it in March of this year, while he was healthy. I witnessed it. It was not notarized and we never went to a lawyer, although that was the plan. He became ill, requiring hospitalization and kidney dialysis. Eventually he went to a skilled nursing facility. We always meant to conclude everything LEGALLY but we kept postponing it. He died. Is such a will legal ... that is to say, since it wasn't notarized or created by a lawyer? Is it binding? He never wrote another will since that time if that helps you answer the question.

Also, what is the next step? Thanks,

Elaine


Asked on 9/07/06, 8:03 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Marc V. Taiani AAAL - Allegheny Attorneys At Law

Re: handwritten will

There is no witness or notary requirement in PA, but it doesn't hurt...the question you should be asking yourself is have you filed all of the required paperwork with the state in regards to your father's passing? If not contact my office ASAP to begin this requirement.

Sincerely,

Marc V. Taiani, Esquire

AAAL - Allegheny Attorneys At Law, PC

412.731.0865 (Office)

www.AlleghenyAttorneys.com

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Answered on 9/08/06, 10:23 am


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