Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

How long can a beneficiary in a will hold up the finalizing of the estate by refusing to sign the form that states that they agree with the proposed settlement?


Asked on 12/02/10, 11:16 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

First, the will controls who inherits what.

If the heirs/beneficiaries agree to a different distribution, then if one beneficiary refuses to agree to the proposed settlement, the Personal Representative may file a petition requiring the person to formally object to the settlement and state her/his reasons. The Register of Wills or the Orphans Court will decide how the estate will be settled.

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.

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Answered on 12/08/10, 9:19 am


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