How to Prepare for Estate Planning in Pennsylvania
Secure Your Legacy with a Plan You Can Trust
At The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C., we believe everyone deserves a clear, customized estate plan that protects their loved ones and reflects their wishes. With over 60 years of experience helping clients throughout Schuylkill County, Northumberland County, and beyond, we make the estate planning process approachable, empowering, and legally sound.
Whether you're just getting started or need to update an existing plan, we're here to guide you every step of the way.
Why Estate Planning Matters in Pennsylvania
Estate planning is about more than just a will—it's about making sure your loved ones are cared for, your wishes are honored, and your legacy is protected. Without a valid estate plan in place, Pennsylvania's intestacy laws determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your preferences.
The Urban Law Difference
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60+ Years of Experience
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Personalized Legal Solutions
5 Steps to Begin Your Estate Plan
Step 1: Take Inventory of Your Assets
Start by listing everything you own:
- Real estate and vehicles
- Bank accounts and retirement funds
- Stocks, bonds, and investment accounts
- Life insurance policies
- Family heirlooms or sentimental assets
This snapshot helps ensure nothing is overlooked in your estate plan.
Step 2: Define Your Goals
What do you want your plan to achieve? Consider:
- Who should inherit your assets
- Guardianship of minor children
- Charitable donations
- Minimizing tax burdens
- Planning for potential long-term care
We'll walk you through all the possibilities.
Step 3: Choose Trusted Representatives
Select individuals who will carry out your wishes, such as:
- Executor: Handles your estate after you die
- Power of Attorney: Manages finances if you're incapacitated
- Healthcare Proxy: Makes medical decisions on your behalf
- Trustee (if applicable): Manages any trusts you establish
Step 4: Draft Key Legal Documents
Our team will prepare a legally enforceable, customized estate plan that may include:
- A Last Will and Testament
- Durable Financial Power of Attorney
- Healthcare Power of Attorney & Living Will
- Revocable or Irrevocable Trusts (as needed)
Every document is tailored to your goals and compliant with Pennsylvania law.
Step 5: Keep It Current
Estate plans should evolve with your life. We recommend reviewing your plan after:
- Marriage, divorce, or remarriage of yourself and any loved ones, including intended heirs or beneficiaries of your estate
- Birth or adoption of children or grandchildren
- Major asset changes (home sale, inheritance, business succession)
- Relocation to a different state
We’ll help you keep everything updated and legally valid.
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"Love this law firm A++ job"I wanna start by saying thank you to anthony you helped me through my workers comp claim. And you made it to where I can take care of my family and get us cought back up on all our bills that fell behind since I was injured. If I ever need another attorney you will be my first choice,you treated me as family not just a client like others would have. And if anyone I know would ever ask me for a great attorney I will tell them to call your law firm. Thanks again Tony P.s this man got me a bigger settelment than I though was possible Robert K.- Robert K.
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FAQs: Estate Planning in Pennsylvania
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will goes into effect after death and distributes assets through probate. A trust can manage assets during your lifetime and help avoid probate entirely.
Can I update my estate plan?
Yes. Updates are common and recommended after life events. We’ll help ensure your documents stay current and enforceable.
What if I move to another state?
Estate laws vary by state. If you move, we recommend reviewing your plan with an attorney licensed in your new jurisdiction to ensure compliance.