AREAS OF PRACTICE

At H.A. English & Associates, we understand that after losing a loved one, the last thing you need is to be stressed about handling all the small legal details of their estate correctly. That’s why we’re here to help. With our comprehensive system and years of experience, we’ve got all the tools you need in order to simplify the process as much as possible and make sure an estate is handled properly. 

But what exactly does handling an estate entail? And what are your duties as an executor, executrix, heir, or family member? 

In the simplest terms, estate administration involves ensuring the proper distribution of one’s assets upon their passing. “Proper” in this aspect is in regards to two areas: adhering to the wishes of an individual in their Will and verifying compliancy with the state and federal regulations surrounding estates. 

To begin the process, an estate must be opened at the Register of Wills for the county where the deceased resided. In Allegheny County, this involves a trip to the Register of Wills in downtown Pittsburgh, which Attorney English will accompany you. In some other counties, however, this can be done virtually. Following this, our office will ask the executor/executrix to gather up all the information available about the deceased’s bank accounts, property information, other kinds of financial accounts (retirement, annuities, stocks, bonds, IRAs, etc.), and information for any other assets which belonged to the deceased individual, along with obtaining copies of the death certificate and the original copy of their Will. From there, our office will work alongside the executor/executrix to figure out any remaining information necessary in order to notify beneficiaries of the will, assist with filing inheritance taxes, and ultimately make sure that the entire probate process from beginning to end is completed as smoothly and quickly as possible.

At H.A. English & Associates, we want to make this process as painless as possible for you. If you are the executor or executrix of an estate and have questions, feel free to give our office a call. We will do our best to assist you or direct you to the next best channel for your needs.