Estates and probate

If you've been named executor, the first few weeks matter most. You'll need the original will, several copies of the death certificate and a list of what the person owned and owed. Don't pay debts or hand out belongings yet.

Next comes probate at the Montgomery County Register of Wills in Norristown, where you're formally appointed. We prepare the filing and go with you. After that we help you notify heirs and creditors, keep the estate's money separate, file the Pennsylvania inheritance tax return and, at the end, account for everything before the estate is closed.

Many estates take about a year. We'll tell you on the first call whether yours looks simple or not, and what our part would cost.