Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

Significant Other passed away Dec. 2016. We have been together for almost 20 years and lived with each other for the last 9 years. His daughters were left most everything in his will. I got a small pension and his car. I have been with him for many years and we supported each other in many ways. The last few years he was having several different medical issues. Serious ones. His daughter's, who both live out of state, never ever came in to see him or help him. I have always been here for him. Now, I am being forced to move. I have no job from taking care of their father who I relied on financially. I have no home to go to and have been so depressed over everything. Can I file a claim against the estate? They had nothing much to do with him until he passed. Now that want everything.


Asked on 3/27/17, 1:54 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

Condolences for your loss. Unfortunately, if he didn't provide better for you in his will, you do not have a claim against the estate, unless you paid for his care and can show receipts. In that case you could make a claim for reimbursement. Also, similarly, if you made payments toward the house and it was titled only in his name, and you have receipts for those payments, you may assert a claim. But be aware that his family will make a counterclaim that you "owed" something for rent. Yes, it's a hard-hearted claim, but they will make it anyway.

You should consult with a local estates lawyer to find out what your rights are beyond whatever was left to you in your SO's will.

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.

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Answered on 3/28/17, 11:05 am


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