What to Do When a Loved One Passes Away in Schuylkill or Northumberland County
Compassionate Legal Guidance During Life’s Most Difficult Moments
Losing someone you love is one of life’s most painful experiences. The emotional toll is heavy, and dealing with legal, financial, and property matters in the aftermath can feel overwhelming.
At The Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C., we provide trusted, step-by-step legal support to families across Schuylkill County, Northumberland County, and surrounding communities. With over 60 years of estate law experience, our firm is committed to helping you handle the necessary responsibilities with clarity, care, and confidence.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Loved One Passes
If you're unsure what to do next, this list can help guide you through the first crucial actions:
- Secure the Death Certificate – This document will be required for legal and financial purposes.
- Locate the Will or Estate Plan – Determine if the decedent left a will or trust documents, and contact the named executor. If no will is found to probate, then next of kin must come forward to be appointed an administrator.
- Notify Institutions – Inform Social Security, banks, pension providers, and insurance companies. Debts and ongoing expenses, such as utilities, may have to be notified as well.
- Consult an Estate Attorney – Contact our team to determine whether probate or estate administration is required.
Every situation is unique. Let us walk you through your options so nothing is missed.
The Urban Law Difference
Let Our Family Help Yours
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60+ Years of Experience
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Individualized Attention
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Available Around The Clock To Help
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Personalized Legal Solutions
Understanding Probate & Estate Administration
Even with a will, the estate must typically go through probate—a legal process that verifies the will and authorizes the executor to act. If no will exists, the court will appoint an administrator to manage the estate.
We’ll help you determine:
- Whether the estate qualifies for simplified probate (for small estates)
- What forms must be filed, and what deadlines must be met
- How to protect yourself from liability as an executor or administrator
- Whether any debts can be negotiated or dismissed
Our Estate Administration Services
We represent executors, administrators, and families in all stages of probate and estate administration. Our services include:
- Filing the initial court petition
- Notifying heirs and creditors, as well as
- Valuing and cataloging estate assets
- Paying valid debts, including medical expenses, taxes, and administrative expenses
- Preparing and filing the Pennsylvania inheritance tax return
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries and disclose estate accounting (preferably by informal/amicable agreement)
- Handling contested wills or legal disputes
Our team is known for being responsive, knowledgeable, and compassionate during this emotionally challenging time.
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"A caring warrior for his clients."
He made the lawsuit a big success.
- Paul L. -
"On my word if anyone ever finds themselves needing a lawyer I couldn't recommend you enough . I truly mean that. I will never forget this."On my word if anyone ever finds themselves needing a lawyer I couldn't recommend you enough . I truly mean that. I will never forget this.- D.L.
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"Thank you so much for all that you did for me. Thank you for always being available and answering all my questions."Thank you so much for all that you did for me. Thank you for always being available and answering all my questions.- M.C.
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"I was more than happy with your service and definitely would recommend"I was more than happy with your service and definitely would recommend your law firm in the future to anyone needing assistance.- Donna F.
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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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"Tom Einsigs accident."I am pleased with the settlement Attorney Urban was able to get for my car accident. Thank you.- Tom Einsig
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"Happy Ending"I was awarded a settlement that I am very happy with. Thank You Urban Law. Highly recommend it to everyone needing an Attorney.- David Wetzel
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"They answered questions professionally and promptly via email or phone calls. I never felt rushed or like I was an inconvenience. I was kept informed every step of the way as to what was going on."- Anonymous
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to go through probate if there’s a will?
Yes, even with a will, probate is usually required in Pennsylvania to formally appoint an executor and validate the will to file REV-1500 Inheritance Tax Return and distribute assets, but it may not be necessary in certain situations.
How long does the probate or estate administration process take?
It depends on the estate’s complexity, but most cases are resolved within 6 to 12 months. We’ll provide a realistic timeline upfront. The Department of Revenue also takes about 6 or more additional months to approve the return and issue an assessment.
Am I personally responsible for my loved one’s debts?
No. As a general rule, debts are paid from estate assets. You are not personally liable unless you co-signed a loan or jointly held an account.