How can an out-of-state heir challenge a fiduciary in PA Orphans’ Court?:
I am located out of state and seeking guidance from a Pennsylvania attorney regarding a contested Orphans’ Court / estate matter.
The issues involve estate administration disputes, fiduciary conduct concerns, lack of accounting/reporting, possible administrator or fiduciary removal, and related litigation strategy. I would like to understand what procedural options may generally be available in Pennsylvania Orphans’ Court, such as requesting an accounting, objecting to fiduciary conduct, seeking removal, requesting a status conference, or obtaining other court relief.
There is also a counsel-transition issue that may affect timing and next steps, so I am trying to understand how an out-of-state interested party/heir can protect their interests while seeking new Pennsylvania counsel.
I am not posting names, case numbers, or confidential details publicly. I am seeking general guidance and possible representation from an attorney familiar with Pennsylvania contested probate / Orphans’ Court practice, including Philadelphia, Chester, Bucks, Lehigh, Delaware, Montgomery, or surrounding counties.
John’s answer: Your situation seems to be quite normal … many of my clients are out-of-state … I think your approach is good … good luck …
Will I need to have a codicil to my will, signed by two witnesses and notarized in Pennsylvania: I would like to remove my brother as a 20% beneficiary to my estate. Our relationship has changed drastically and there are numerous reasons I would like him removed and is actually because I do not believe he would accept responsibility or even respond to any correspondence after my death.
John’s answer: Hello … yes - or you can just write a new Will … I must say, however, that I am a little confused by your explanation … is your brother just a beneficiary or is he the executor also? … either way - you need two witnesses and a notary - very simple - you can find someone to do it here … good luck …
Rent to own: I’m looking into a house that’s could be rent to own if I do this process I want a attorney so we do this transaction correctly
John’s answer: I think you answered your question. Doing anything with an attorney is always better. You never know what you don’t know.