Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

Condolences on your recent loss.

If there was no will, your mother's estate still must be administered. As her daughter, you are one of the relatives who could apply to the Register of Wills in the county where she resided for appointment as the personal representative of her estate. You would not be personally liable for her debts if you correctly administer the estate.

Your responsibilities would be to determine all of the debts and all of the assets. There is a priority for paying debts, including taxes and estate administration expenses. If there are any assets remaining, the Pennsylvania Intestate [without a will] Succession law spells out the order in which heirs inherit.

You should consult with an estates lawyer to help advise and guide you through this process.

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.