Prepare for the future with an Estate Planning Lawyer in Lancaster, PA

If you need assistance drafting a will, contact WPH Law to speak with an experienced estate planning lawyer in Lancaster, PA. Call or fill out our form today and get a free initial consultation about your circumstances.
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Trusted Lancaster Will and Estate Planning Attorneys Who Put Your Family First

Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your loved ones are taken care of and your wishes are honored. However, with such high stakes, you must be sure that you make the right decisions for you and your family. Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about navigating estate planning alone.

At WPH Law, we understand the gravity of the decisions you face, and we're here to offer unwavering support every step of the way. Our team of reputable Lancaster will lawyers is committed to delivering top-quality services that prioritize your family's future and bring you the peace of mind you deserve. With our estate planning lawyers by your side, you can trust that your affairs will be well-organized and legally sound. From drafting wills and trusts to establishing powers of attorney, we tailor our approach to meet your unique needs and aspirations.

Beyond our extensive legal experience, we prioritize communication and collaboration, ensuring that you remain informed and empowered throughout the process. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide clear guidance so that you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Don't leave the future of your loved ones to chance. Partner with WPH Law today and take the first step towards securing a legacy that will endure for generations to come. Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced wills and estate planning attorneys and embark on this important journey with the support and guidance you need.

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Drafting a Will is No Small Feat. We’re Here to Help.

Drafting a will is a monumental task that requires careful consideration and attention to detail. At WPH Law, we understand its significance and are dedicated to guiding you through the process with compassion. Whether you're a young professional or a retiree looking to solidify your legacy, our team of experienced estate planning lawyers is here to assist you every step of the way.

By trusting us with your estate planning needs, you gain access to personalized guidance tailored to your unique circumstances. From identifying beneficiaries and outlining asset distribution to appointing guardians for minors and establishing healthcare directives, we work tirelessly to ensure that your wishes are clearly articulated and legally binding.

Our will attorneys take the time to thoroughly explain the implications of each decision, empowering you to make informed choices that align with your values and goals. Don't wait to secure the future of your loved ones and protect your own interests. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our knowledgeable estate planning attorneys. Together, we'll create a comprehensive plan that reflects your wishes and safeguards your legacy.

A Simple Will vs. a Complex Will: What’s the Difference?

A simple will is a straightforward document that outlines the distribution of your assets after you die. It is recommended for young people who are single or married without children. They do not appoint guardians for children or include pour-over provisions and special rules.

Generally, the more complex your life, the more complicated your will must be. Therefore, a complex will involves more intricate arrangements and considerations. This could include provisions for trusts, tax planning strategies, business succession plans, charitable donations, and other detailed instructions. Complex wills are often necessary for individuals with significant assets, children, business interests, or specific wishes regarding the distribution of their wealth.

Benefits of Making a Will With an Estate Planning Attorney

Having a will is crucial for several reasons. With a will, you can direct where and to whom your estate will go after your death. If you died intestate (without a will), your estate would be distributed according to your state’s law. This means that your assets may not be distributed as you would have wished. Additionally, wills make the administration of your estate run smoothly. 

A clear expression of your wishes helps prevent costly, time-consuming disputes over the distribution of your assets among your heirs. A will provides clarity and guidance for your loved ones during a difficult time, ensuring that your legacy is managed according to your intentions.

Frequently Asked Questions

While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer to draft a will in Pennsylvania, an attorney can help address complex situations and ensure your wishes are accurately reflected. They will also confirm that your will is legally sound and meets all the necessary requirements.

There's no specific age requirement for writing a will, but it's generally recommended that anyone of legal age—18 in most states—make one. This is especially true for people with assets, dependents, or specific wishes for the distribution of their estate. Life events like marriage, having children, or acquiring significant assets often prompt individuals to consider writing or updating their will.

In preparing to write a will, you should compile all personal information including assets such as real estate, stocks, patents, cash, other valuables, etc. Next, you should determine who you'd like as your executor and beneficiaries and include any specific instructions you'd like in the will. If you have children, you'll also want to decide who you'd like as guardians.  Regular updates to reflect life changes are essential to maintaining its relevance. While it's feasible to create a will independently, seeking legal advice can ensure its accuracy and adherence to local laws. An attorney will also help ensure you don’t leave anything unaccounted for and that your assets are distributed as you wish.

A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after your death and may include instructions regarding guardianship of minor children and other matters. 

Estate planning, on the other hand, is a broader concept that encompasses various legal strategies to manage your assets during your lifetime and after your death. This may include tools like trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, in addition to a will. Estate planning aims to maximize the value of your estate, minimize taxes, and ensure your wishes are carried out, often involving legal and financial professionals to tailor a comprehensive plan to your specific circumstances.

Help your loved ones by preparing for the future.

We've helped hundreds of clients get peace of mind that their loved ones will be taken care of when they pass away. Having a plan in place can ease the burden of family members during difficult times.
William P. Harrington, Jr., ESQ. Estate Planning Attorney
William P. Harrington, Jr., ESQ.

Lancaster County Register of Wills’ Office Information

The Lancaster Register of Wills' Office and Clerk of the Orphans' Court Office offer a range of services to the public, including:

  • Probate of decedent estates
  • Collection of inheritance taxes
  • Issuance of marriage licenses
  • Maintenance of records pertaining to adoptions, guardianship, and estates

The office address is:

50 N. Duke St.
Lancaster, PA 17602

Prepare Your Family for the Future With a Lancaster Wills Attorney at WPH Law

Secure the future of your loved ones by consulting with a wills and estate planning lawyer at WPH Law. Through steadfast guidance and personalized strategies, our knowledgeable attorneys can assist you in crafting a comprehensive estate plan tailored to your unique circumstances.

From wills and trusts to power of attorney, we will walk you through the estate planning process and leave no stone unturned to safeguard your legacy and minimize potential conflicts. Take proactive steps today to provide your family with the peace of mind they deserve tomorrow. Trust WPH Law to help you plan effectively for the future.

If you need an Attorney, contact The Law Offices of William P. Harrington, Jr., ESQ and talk for free!

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