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Mechanicsburg Estate Trust Administration Attorney

Mechanicsburg Estate Trust Administration Attorney

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Guiding You Through the Process of Honoring Last Wishes

The passing of a loved one brings not only emotional challenges but also a series of tasks and responsibilities that must be undertaken, including the administration of their estate and trusts. Understandably, amidst the grieving process and personal loss, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the complexity of these legal needs.

Keystone Elder Law, P.C., is here to assist you. As experienced Mechanicsburg estate and trust administration attorneys, we can provide you with step-by-step guidance to carry out your loved one’s final wishes. Our law firm understands that overseeing a trust can be challenging even under the best circumstances. Moreover, we recognize that the weeks and months following the loss of a family member are far from the best circumstances.

Distinguishing Probate Estate from Trust

Many individuals come to our office seeking clarity on the distinction between an estate and a trust and how each is administered according to Pennsylvania law. In essence, a probate estate encompasses all the property solely owned by the deceased at the time of their passing. It does not include jointly owned assets or property held under another legal entity, such as a corporation or trust.

On the other hand, a trust is a legal instrument in which a grantor transfers specific property to a trustee who must administer it according to the grantor’s instructions for the benefit of one or more beneficiaries. Trusts are frequently employed in Pennsylvania estate planning to bypass the traditional probate process. For example, an individual can establish a “living trust,” fund it with their assets, and act as the trustee during their lifetime. Upon their demise, a successor trustee assumes control and distributes the remaining trust property as dictated by the original trust documents.

The existence of a trust does not eliminate the need for a will. In fact, it is common practice to have a “pour-over” will when there is a living trust. This will directs the personal representative of the probate estate to distribute any remaining probate assets to the trust.

Additionally, a person’s will may stipulate the creation of one or more separate testamentary trusts. For instance, a parent may wish to establish a trust to hold specific assets for a child until they reach a certain age. Alternatively, the will may direct that certain property be left to a trust benefiting one or more charitable organizations.

Reach Out to Keystone Elder Law, P.C. Today

If you have been entrusted with the estate administration of a probate estate or trust, it is vital to recognize your role as a fiduciary. A qualified Mechanicsburg estate & trust administration lawyer can provide you with expert advice regarding your duties and obligations in this capacity, ensuring a smooth process. If you require immediate assistance, do not hesitate to contact Keystone Elder Law, P.C. today to schedule a consultation and gain the support you need.

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Comprehensive Interdisciplinary Approach

Empowering Clients with Holistic Planning at
Keystone Elder Law

At Keystone Elder Law, we believe that the physical, social, legal, and financial considerations of our clients all intertwine. We utilize an interdisciplinary approach to evaluate each area, which allows for the creation of a plan that addresses the concerns of the individual as a whole as well as the family. To this end, our model of practice includes a Care Coordinator (usually a nurse or social worker), whose expertise complements our team of attorneys.

When the road of life is smooth, decisions about legal and financial matters are easy to push aside for “a rainy day.” Planning ahead, however, will allow for more options as you view the map of where you’ve been and where you want to go. Don’t let a crisis limit your choices or derail your plans.

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