Pennsylvania trusts and estates law

Trusts and estates is the name given to the branch of law that governs your property and assets after you die. Trusts and estates law includes probate, which covers wills and intestacy (dying without a will), estates, future interests in property, trusts, gifts, annuities, and charitable bequests. Probate is the term used to describe admission of a will to court proceedings. Intestacy refers to the general rules governing the disposal of the property of someone who dies without a will, or who leaves a will that fails to make provision for all assets.

Pennsylvania trusts to protect children

One of the most common types of trusts you can create is one for your minor children, or for an incapacitated adult relative, for care after you are gone and until they are old enough or well enough to take care of themselves. Often a parent will name a trustee to be in control of the finances and make decisions on whether to sell or keep property, and manage assets such as real estate. The trustee can be a family member or trusted friend, and can be paid for his or her services out of the trust assets.

For minor’s trusts, a Pennsylvania lawyer skilled in estate planning can explain the consequences of choices you must make, such as whether to create a trust on behalf of your children should you die. Consulting with a Pennsylvania estate planning lawyer can avoid your making costly mistakes and ensure that your property and assets pass to your children in accordance with your intentions. An attorney can also help you with naming a guardian for your children should you become unable to care for them.

The wills, estates, and trusts attorneys at the Ruggiero Law Offices LLC, can assist you with all your trusts and estates questions in West Chester, Paoli, Norristown, and throughout Pennsylvania.