I am a licensed Pennsylvania attorney, practicing in Allegheny County and, more specifically, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I concentrate my practice in the areas of probate, estate planning, and elder law. These areas of practice have many specific subfields.
My approach to practicing law is based on a very simple philosophy... every person is important. I believe that practicing law is about more than statutes and rules. Practicing law is about respect. Even if you are not my client, I believe that all people add to society and deserve respect; therefore, I believe that you are important. I have heard it said that finding the right attorney makes all the difference. I firmly believe that I have the perception, understanding, and experience to help you with your legal needs. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.. Probate & Estate Administration:
* Advertise the grant of Letters by the Register of Wills
* Obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (“TIN”) from the IRS
* Take control of the Decedent’s assets
* Pay the debts of the Decedent
* rovide written notice to the beneficiaries;
* Notify the Department of Public Welfare and,potentially,the Attorney General of Pennsylvania
* File the numerous required tax returns and pay the requisite taxes
* File an Account with the Orphans’ Court or execute a Family Settlement Agreement,if such Agreement is permissible and feasible;
* Distribute the estate assets to the beneficiaries and heirs,as the context requires; and
* File a final report with the Register of Wills
Fiduciary & Orphan's Court Litigation:
From contesting a will to seeking to modify an irrevocable trust,all of these different types of legal action are united by the Probate,Estates,and Fiduciaries Code and the Orphans’ Court Rules. Therefore,it is important to find an attorney with a thorough knowledge of the relevant statutes and rules—along with the applicable case law.
Estate & Health Care Planning:
Estate and health care planning are very individualized; thus,it is important to find a perceptive attorney with experience in this specific area of law.
Other areas of practice include:
* Guardianship
* Special Needs Planning
* Veteran's Benefits