Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

I live in Texas. My father lived in Pa. and was deceased June 22, 2010. I am his only daughter my brother is his only son. He died intestate. His wife's lawyer sent us a letter stating that I have beneficial interest in his estate 1/4 % I rec'd an amended letter which did not state the 1/4% interest. Does this mean I have no beneficial interest in his estate


Asked on 8/23/10, 12:50 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

If your father died intestate and as a resident of PA, his legal heirs include his wife and his children. The wife's share differs, depending on whether she had children with the deceased or not. The children inherit the balance of the estate. Your brother is entitled to the same share. Has he received any letters from the lawyer?

If you have received communication from the lawyer representing the estate, you should be responding to the lawyer by letter, sent certified mail, return receipt requested, to ask for whatever information you need.

If you do not receive responsive answers, you may need to engage a lawyer in the county where the estate is being administered to represent you.

This response is not legal advice, since I do not have all of the information that would be required, and I do not have a representation agreement with you.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

* Another reason for contacting a lawyer is that it is often impossible to give a good answer in the Internet Q&A format without having more information. The unique circumstances of your situation and things that you may not have thought to mention in your question may completely change the answer. If you want to be sure that you have a complete answer to your question and an understanding of what that answer means, establish a connection with a lawyer who practices in the area of your concern.

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Answered on 8/28/10, 3:29 pm


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