Historic downtown area of West Chester, Pennsylvania

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is an administrator of an estate?

An administrator of the estate is the appointed legal representative of the estate of the deceased. This role includes a number of responsibilities to ensure the estate is properly and properly distributed. WGFLaw provides estate administration services to assist clients through the legal complexities of this role.

What are the estate administrator’s duties?

The general duties of an estate administrator include dealing with government benefit programs, obtaining all benefits payable, settling the bills, managing the assets, and distributing the assets of the estate. The estate administrator’s duties can be overwhelming, but a knowledgeable attorney can assist in handling these tasks.

How does the court determine the administrator of the estate with no will?

If a loved one dies without a will, the probate court will appoint an administrator to handle the estate. This role is typically appointed to a surviving spouse, adult children, or siblings of the deceased.

What estate administration services do you offer?

With our estate administration services, we assist clients through their various responsibilities as an administrator. From the probate process to the distribution of assets, our legal professionals will assist you in overseeing a fair handling of the estate.

What happens when you file for bankruptcy?

After filing for bankruptcy, you must attend a meeting of creditors to discuss and verify the information you provided in your bankruptcy forms with a trustee. After filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 11 bankruptcy, you will also be required to take financial management courses. Each chapter of bankruptcy will follow a different course of action in addressing your debt.

What is the process for filing bankruptcy?

When deciding to file bankruptcy, you should begin by collecting your financial documents and choosing which chapter of bankruptcy best suits your circumstances. Once this decision has been made, you will fill out the required bankruptcy forms and prepare your filing fee. Once these steps have been completed, you can officially file bankruptcy in a local bankruptcy court. Filing for bankruptcy can be a complex legal process. The bankruptcy attorneys at WGFLaw can assist you throughout this process to ensure everything is completed correctly.

What are the differences between chapter 7 bankruptcy, chapter 11 bankruptcy, and chapter 13 bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 is a plan that requires the liquidation of your assets to pay off as much of your debt as possible. Chapter 11 bankruptcy is a reorganization of the debtor’s business finances and assets. Under Chapter 13 bankruptcy, debtors propose a repayment plan that spans between 3 to 5 years while maintaining possession of their assets.

What types of bankruptcy services do you offer in West Chester, PA?

In West Chester, PA, we offer comprehensive bankruptcy services for both debtors and creditors. Whether you’re seeking relief from overwhelming debt through Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, or you need assistance with creditor claims, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the process and help you achieve a fresh financial start.

What types of cases are handled by Orphans' Court in Pennsylvania?

Orphans’ Court in Pennsylvania deals with legal matters involving the protection of individuals who cannot manage their own affairs, such as minors and incapacitated adults. Common cases include guardianship appointments, estate administration, disputes over wills and trusts, adoptions, and the approval of accounts for estates and trusts. We will guide you through the complexities of Orphans’ Court proceedings to ensure your loved ones are properly protected.

What legal services do you provide for real estate transactions and foreclosure defense?

For real estate transactions in West Chester and surrounding areas, we offer expert assistance with buying, selling, and leasing properties. We also specialize in foreclosure defense, providing strategies to help homeowners protect their property and navigate the complexities of foreclosure proceedings.

How can Wetzel Gagliardi Fetter & Lavin LLC support businesses in the West Chester area?

We offer a range of business law services to support entrepreneurs and established companies in the West Chester area. From business formation and contract preparation to litigation and trust formation, our team provides practical, legal solutions tailored to your business needs and goals.

What should I do if I need guardianship services in West Chester, PA?

If you’re seeking guardianship services in West Chester, PA, our firm can assist with establishing guardianship for minors or incapacitated adults. We will guide you through the legal process to ensure that the best interests of the individual are protected and that all legal requirements are met.

How can WGFL assist with estate planning in the Philadelphia region?

We provide personalized estate planning services to help you protect your assets and ensure your wishes are carried out. Our services include creating wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, as well as planning for estate taxes and guardianship. We are committed to helping families in the Philadelphia region plan for the future with clarity and confidence.

Contact our law firm today

Wetzel Gagliardi Fetter & Lavin LLC cares about your personal situation. Let our lawyers help you achieve peace of mind. You are always welcome at our office, conveniently located in West Chester. Call our firm to arrange your consultation or contact the firm online.

phone484-887-0779