Trusted Estate Administration Lawyer Serving Media, Pennsylvania

It’s the legal process of managing and settling a deceased person’s affairs. Duties include filing taxes, paying debts, and distributing assets. We guide clients through every legal step.

An executor is named in a will, while an administrator is court-appointed when no will exists. Both are responsible for managing the estate, and our firm provides trusted guidance for each.

If you're unsure how to handle legal documents, taxes, or real estate sales—or if disputes arise—you should work with an experienced estate administration attorney to protect yourself and the estate.

Often, yes. Pennsylvania inheritance tax is due at death and becomes delinquent nine months later, with a 5 percent discount if it is paid within three months. Rates run from 0 percent for a surviving spouse to 4.5 percent for children and other lineal heirs, 12 percent for siblings, and 15 percent for most other heirs. In Delaware County the return is filed with the Register of Wills in Media. The estate may also need its own income tax returns. Our legal team works with financial professionals on timely and accurate filings.

No. An administrator has fiduciary duties and must follow Pennsylvania law. Misconduct can lead to legal action. We help ensure fairness and accountability.

Under 20 Pa.C.S. § 3131, a Pennsylvania resident’s will is probated before the register of the county where the decedent had his or her last family or principal residence. For a Delaware County resident, that is the Register of Wills at the Government Center, 201 W. Front Street, Media, PA 19063. The office offers in-person and virtual probate appointments; if the decedent lived in another county, the estate is opened there instead.

Sometimes. Under 20 Pa.C.S. § 3102, when a Pennsylvania resident dies owning personal property (not counting real estate and certain payments to family) worth $50,000 or less, the Orphans’ Court of the county where the decedent lived may direct distribution on petition, whether or not letters have been issued. Whether that route fits depends on what the decedent owned and how it was titled, so it is worth reviewing before anyone files.

Yes. Ravenell Law also prepares wills, revocable living trusts, powers of attorney, and health care directives for Pennsylvania clients. Many families come to us after settling a parent’s estate and want their own plan in place so their children face fewer of the same questions. Visit our estate planning page to learn more or schedule a consultation.