Services

Wills

Why Do I Need A Will?

Why Can’t I Just Print One From The Internet Or Buy A Will Kit?

The decision concerning the distribution of your property at your death is one that you should make carefully after discussing your needs and desires thoroughly with an attorney. We will discuss with you the consequences of your decisions as well as prepare a document that fits your needs. The made to order Wills will not do that. The decisions are too important to leave to impersonal software. You cannot ask questions of a computer. Internet forms may not reflect current laws. Also, forms may not have Pennsylvania specific laws and language.

You need to consider: property that will pass to others outside of your Will, inheritance tax issues, including how they are to be paid,the impact of changes in circumstances after you write your Will and the rights/duties you are granting to the party who will act as the executor of your estate.

What Happens if I Die Without a Will in the State of Pennsylvania?

If you die without a will YOU do not decide where your assets go-the State does/YOU do not select your Executor-the person appointed as Administrator may be someone you would rather not have in that position. The result may not be one that reflects your wishes. There also may be adverse tax implications.

Power of Attorney

What does it do?

It allows someone to make business decisions for you if you become legally incapacitated. This power includes the right to sell real estate, borrow money, buy or sell stocks, pay your bills and manage your affairs.

Things to consider when deciding if you want a power of attorney: Are you willing to give this authority to someone at this time? Who do you appoint as your agent?

Do you need a Power of Attorney that only becomes effective if you become incapacitated?

This type of Power of Attorney is referred to as a “Springing Power of Attorney” which generally requires that a physician certify that the party granting the power of attorney has become incapacitated.

Living Will

What does it do?

A Living Will (also known as an Advance Health Care Directive) is a way for you to set out your choices regarding medical treatment if you are unable to make or communicate your wishes at the time of treatment.

You can also use this document to appoint someone to have the authority to consent to medical procedures and care on your behalf. A Living Will expresses your treatment decisions beforehand relieving family and friends of this responsibility.

We also prepare Living Wills that comply with the directives of the Catholic Bishops of Pennsylvania. This is an important decision. We will help you consider the risks and benefits and make the right decision.

Contract Review and Preparation

Have you been given a contract to sign?

Before you sign it, give us a call and let us review it with you. We can explain the language and point out the issues you should consider before signing. We can also attempt to negotiate changes on your behalf if you wish. This can help you make the right decision and avoid costly mistakes.

Considering entering into a business relationship with someone?

It is always better to set out in writing the party’s expectations and agreement on the front end. This will serve to make sure all the parties have the same understanding and will assist in avoiding problems in the future. We will sit down with you and discuss the structure of the relationship and draft a document setting out the understanding between the parties.

Real Estate Law

Assist buyers and sellers in the sale or purchase of residential, investment or commercial real estate.

Provide direction to real estate owners in a variety of disputes with other homeowners, home owner’s associations, etc.

Prepare deeds, review contracts, leases and other real estate related documents.