Finding the Top Estate Planning Lawyers in Pennsylvania
Estate planning is about more than just distributing assets — it’s about protecting your loved ones, preserving your legacy, and ensuring your wishes are honored. Whether you need a simple will or a complex trust, finding an experienced estate planning lawyer in Pennsylvania is essential to building a solid future for you and your family.
At TopLawyersNow.com, we help individuals and families across Pennsylvania connect with trusted estate planning attorneys ready to guide them through this important process. If you are a Pennsylvania estate planning lawyer, claim your listing today and help clients secure peace of mind for the future.
What to Look for in the Best Pennsylvania Estate Planning Lawyer
Choosing the right lawyer is crucial for a solid, enforceable plan. Here’s what to prioritize:
1. Focus on Estate Planning and Probate Law
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Choose an attorney who regularly drafts wills, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and handles probate matters in Pennsylvania.
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Estate planning is specialized — experience matters.
2. Customized Planning
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The best estate plans are not cookie-cutter.
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Your lawyer should design a plan tailored to your family, financial situation, goals, and future needs.
3. Clear, Patient Communication
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Estate planning involves complex legal concepts.
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You deserve a lawyer who explains your options clearly and answers your questions thoroughly.
4. Transparent Fees
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Many estate planning services involve flat fees for basic documents.
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Complex trusts or tax planning strategies may involve higher costs — always get a clear written fee agreement.
5. Full Service Availability
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Top estate lawyers offer comprehensive services, from will drafting to trust creation to probate court representation when needed.
Common Estate Planning Services in Pennsylvania
Top Pennsylvania estate planning attorneys commonly assist with:
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Last Will and Testament Creation
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Revocable Living Trusts
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Irrevocable Trusts
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Durable Financial Powers of Attorney
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Healthcare Powers of Attorney and Living Wills
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Special Needs Planning
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Asset Protection Strategies
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Probate and Estate Administration
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Estate and Inheritance Tax Planning
Key Pennsylvania Estate Planning Laws You Should Know
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Will Requirements:
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Wills must be signed by the testator and typically require two witnesses (especially for notarization purposes).
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Pennsylvania recognizes handwritten (holographic) wills, but having a formal, properly executed will is strongly recommended.
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Probate Process:
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Probate is required for most Pennsylvania estates unless assets are jointly owned, held in trust, or have designated beneficiaries.
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Simplified procedures may apply to small estates valued under $50,000.
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Estate and Inheritance Taxes:
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Pennsylvania imposes an inheritance tax on most assets passing to heirs — rates range from 0% to 15% depending on the heir’s relationship to the deceased.
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Living Trusts:
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A living trust can help avoid probate and preserve privacy.
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Why Use TopLawyersNow.com to Find an Estate Planning Lawyer in Pennsylvania?
TopLawyersNow.com helps families secure their futures by offering:
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Verified Pennsylvania Estate Planning Lawyers: Attorneys licensed and experienced in Pennsylvania estate law.
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Detailed Profiles and Client Reviews: Compare lawyer experience, services offered, and client feedback.
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Fast, Direct Access: Contact lawyers easily for consultations about your estate planning needs.
Whether you’re located in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Reading, Scranton, or anywhere in Pennsylvania, TopLawyersNow.com connects you with top estate planning attorneys near you.
If you are a Pennsylvania estate planning lawyer, claiming your listing ensures that families can find you when they need trusted planning support.

FAQ: Finding an Estate Planning Lawyer in Pennsylvania
How do I find the best estate planning lawyer in Pennsylvania?
Use trusted directories like TopLawyersNow.com, review experience with wills, trusts, and probate matters, and schedule consultations to discuss your goals.
How much does it cost to hire an estate planning lawyer in Pennsylvania?
Costs vary. Simple wills may cost $400–$1,000, while full estate plans including trusts may range from $1,500–$5,000+ depending on complexity.
What documents should a basic estate plan include?
Typically a will, durable financial power of attorney, healthcare directive (living will), and possibly a revocable living trust.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Update your plan after major life events like marriage, divorce, birth of a child, major financial changes, or a move to another state.
Can an estate plan help avoid probate in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Living trusts, joint ownership, and designated beneficiaries can help minimize or avoid probate.