Probate & appointment
Review the will and discuss the process for opening an estate and appointing an executor or administrator.
Pittsburgh estate administration
Support for what comes next.
When someone you love dies, the responsibilities can feel overwhelming. We help executors and administrators understand the next steps and move the estate forward.
Discuss an estateCozza Law Group
You do not have to sort it out alone.
Start with the questions in front of you. We can discuss where the estate stands, what needs attention, and how the firm can help.
Notices & estate records
Guidance on required notices, estate filings, and keeping an organized record of the administration.
Assets & inventory
Help identify estate property, coordinate valuations, and prepare the information needed for an estate inventory.
Debts & expenses
Review creditor issues, administration expenses, and questions about paying obligations from estate funds.
Inheritance tax coordination
Discuss Pennsylvania inheritance tax filings and coordinate with your tax professional on related tax questions.
Accounting & distribution
Support with estate records, accounting, and the steps toward distributing assets and completing the administration.
A practical first conversation
Start with what you have.
You do not need a complete set of records before reaching out. Tell us your relationship to the person who died and whether anyone has already been appointed to handle the estate.
Helpful information to gather
- The will and any related estate documents, if available
- A death certificate and any court correspondence
- A general list of property, accounts, debts, and known beneficiaries
- Your questions and any notices or deadlines you have received
For the initial inquiry, share general information only. We can discuss how to provide documents securely.
Before we begin
Questions you may be asking.
What if there is no will?
An estate can still require administration when someone dies without a will. Pennsylvania’s intestacy rules address who inherits. We can discuss appointment of an administrator and the circumstances of the estate.
How long will the process take?
Timing depends on the property involved, required filings, tax matters, creditor issues, and any disputes. We can discuss the factors affecting your estate once we understand the details.
How are legal fees handled?
We discuss the work involved, the proposed scope, and fees before representation begins. Request a consultation to talk through the estate and your needs.
Where can I find official local information?
Allegheny County provides probate forms and filing information. Pennsylvania’s Department of Revenue provides inheritance tax guidance and forms.
Allegheny County Wills and Orphans Division ↗
Pennsylvania inheritance tax resources ↗
Planning ahead
Looking to create your own estate plan?
Start a conversation
Let’s talk through the next step.
Tell us where things stand and what you need help understanding.