Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania
Oldest son, mother died without a will
My mother just died without a will.
She left to us a rather large estate.
However, my brother, the youngest,
believes he deserves the property,
valued at $400,000, at which he
lived with my mother. However, the
three other kids, myself included,
would only receive around $60,000.
What should be done since my
mother had no will?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Oldest son, mother died without a will
the estate would have to be divided by "intestacy" which is basically the common law way of inheritance for those who died without a will. Please call for a free initial consultation.
Sal Raie
Re: Oldest son, mother died without a will
My condolences for your loss.
If there was no will, the estate still has to be administered. The assets that are left after paying all debts, including taxes,will be distributed according the PA law.
You may contact the Office of the Register of Wills in the County where she resided to find out how to go about getting Letters of Administration. All of the children may act as personal representative of the estate, but they may also agree that only one or two be the personal representatives. The Register's office can help you with these initial questions.
You should also consult an estates lawyer to assist with the details of administering the estate, paying the taxes, filing tax returns, etc.