Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania
Reading a will
My mom left a written, witnessed, notarized will. It just says that everything she left is to be divided evenly between the three children. We have no trouble with that. She had no real estate- only a car and a few small bank accounts- everything else had beneficiaries noted on it. Does there still have to be a reading of the will? If so, who does that? Also, my mom was divorced (and not remarried) and left nothing to her former husband- should we be concerned about him contesting anything? Thanks !!
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Reading a will
Are you confusing probate to a meeting where every one is gathered around and the executor reads the will. The latter general happens in movies or TV.
What has to happen is the will has to be filed with Register of Wills to start the probate process. After that the executor get letters testamentary so he can carry out the instructions in the will.
As to the ex husband he is not entitled to anything. According to the Orphans Court judges I've talked to will contests in PA are extremely rare.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact me. The initial consultation is free.
{John}