When a loved one passes away, the legal process of settling their estate can feel overwhelming. Estate administration involves gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property to the rightful beneficiaries. It requires attention to detail, knowledge of Pennsylvania law, and the ability to meet court deadlines.
At Kostrub Law Firm, PLLC, we help families in Pittsburgh, Cecil, and the surrounding areas manage the estate administration process from start to finish. Our attorneys handle the legal work so you can focus on your family during a difficult time.
Estate administration is the legal process of managing and settling a person’s estate after death. If the person left a will, the process follows the instructions in that document. If there is no will, Pennsylvania’s intestacy laws determine how assets are distributed.
The main steps in estate administration include:
Each of these steps has specific legal requirements and deadlines. Missing a step or filing late can result in penalties or delays that affect the entire process.
The person responsible for managing the estate is called the executor if named in a will, or the administrator if appointed by the court. This role carries significant legal responsibility.
As executor or administrator, you are expected to:
Many people who are named as executors have never handled an estate before. The legal requirements can be difficult to manage without guidance, and mistakes can lead to personal liability. Our attorneys at Kostrub Law Firm work alongside executors to make sure every obligation is met.
Even with a clear will, estate administration can run into problems. Some of the most common challenges our clients face include:
When these issues come up, having an attorney involved from the beginning can save time and prevent costly mistakes. Our team works to resolve problems before they escalate and keeps the process moving forward.
At Kostrub Law Firm, we provide hands-on support for every stage of estate administration. When a client comes to us, we start by reviewing the will and any related documents. We then help the executor file the necessary paperwork with the court and begin the process of identifying assets.
Throughout the administration, we handle communication with creditors, prepare and file tax returns, and advise on the proper distribution of assets. If disputes arise among beneficiaries, we work to find a resolution that respects the wishes of the deceased and complies with the law.
We serve families in Pittsburgh, Cecil, and communities across western Pennsylvania. Our attorneys are admitted to practice in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Virginia.
If you have been named as an executor or need help with estate administration, contact Kostrub Law Firm, PLLC at (304) 982-1586 or visit kostrublaw.com to schedule a consultation. We are here to guide you through every step.
The timeline varies depending on the size of the estate and the issues involved. Most estates take between six months and one year to settle. Estates with disputes or tax complications may take longer.
Not all assets are subject to probate. Assets held in a trust, jointly owned property, and accounts with named beneficiaries can pass outside of probate. Our attorneys can help you determine which assets need to go through the court process.
When a person dies without a will, their estate is distributed according to Pennsylvania’s intestacy laws. The court appoints an administrator to manage the process. Our team can guide you through the steps involved.
Yes. An executor who fails to follow legal requirements or mismanages estate assets can be held personally responsible. Working with an attorney reduces this risk and helps ensure every obligation is met.
The executor may need to file a final income tax return for the deceased, a fiduciary income tax return for the estate, and a Pennsylvania inheritance tax return. Our attorneys handle these filings and make sure all deadlines are met.
