Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania
Unknown Brother
I knew my father had another child from another women in the 70's. They were briefly married, then divorced. We have never spoken about it (except when my father told me that he exists). This 1/2 brother found a way to get ahold of me. He gave me details that only he (or his mother) would know. I am sure it is him. My father (and his) is getting older and owns some property (in new hampshire). What legal standing does my formerly unknown 1/2 brother have with regard to my fathers estate?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Unknown Brother
Basically the same as you, unless your father drafts a will...if no will exists at the time of your father's passing, then the property will be divided pir stirpes....meaning if your father doesn't have a wife or his parents are no longer alive then then any remaining assets, including real property, would be split evenly between you and your half brother (as long as your half brother can prove his claim as the son of your father)....I would highly recommend your father to draft a will with an attorney...the sooner the better.
Sincerely,
Marc V. Taiani, Esquire
AAAL - Allegheny Attorneys At Law, PC
www.AlleghenyAttorneys.com
412.731.0865