Protect Your Family & Assets
Attorney-drafted resources to help you create a comprehensive estate plan under Pennsylvania law. Every plan should address what happens to your assets, who makes decisions if you’re incapacitated, and how to minimize taxes and probate delays.
← Back to Probate CenterWhy Estate Planning Matters
Avoid Intestate Rules
Without a will, PA’s intestacy statute decides who gets your assets—often not the distribution you’d choose.
Protect Your Family
Designate guardians for minor children, provide for special-needs dependents, and prevent family disputes.
Minimize Taxes & Delays
Strategic use of trusts and beneficiary designations can reduce inheritance tax and bypass the probate process entirely.
Planning Instruments
Each component works together to create comprehensive protection.
Wills
3 types of wills under Pennsylvania law. Execution requirements, witnesses, and common mistakes to avoid.
Learn moreTrusts
5 trust types explained. Revocable and irrevocable trusts, special needs trusts, and probate avoidance strategies.
Learn morePower of Attorney
Financial and healthcare powers of attorney. Updated for Act 64 of 2023 requirements effective 2024.
Learn moreAdvance Directives
Living wills and POLST orders. Ensure your end-of-life medical wishes are documented and honored.
Learn moreBeneficiary Designations
5 types of non-probate transfers. TOD, POD, joint ownership, and retirement account beneficiaries.
Learn moreKey Pennsylvania Statutes
Wills & Estates Code
20 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. §§ 3101–3162
Powers of Attorney
20 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. §§ 5601–5612
Advance Directives
20 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. §§ 5421–5447
Inheritance & Estate Tax
72 P.S. § 9101 et seq.
Important Disclaimer
Notice: Estate administration and planning involve complex legal, tax, and fiduciary considerations. This information is provided for educational purposes. Consult with a licensed attorney and tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.
Content prepared under the supervision of a PA licensed attorney. Last updated April 2026.