Almost everyone believes that their property will naturally pass to their nearest loved ones once they die—but what if there is no Will? To know who inherits property if no Will in Pennsylvania, is important, particularly for your estate planning. At LM Attorney, we help families prevent uncertainties and disputes by providing effective legal knowledge of Pennsylvania’s intestate succession laws.

What is Intestate Succession?
If a person dies without a Will, their estate is “intestate,” and Pennsylvania’s intestate succession laws determine who receives the property of the deceased, rather than the undocumented intent of the deceased while living.

Intestate succession distributes your assets to your nearest surviving relatives in a particular order, which may not be what you want.

Who Inherits When No Will Exists?
The way property usually is divided in Pennsylvania is described below:

• Spouse only: The spouse inherits everything if there are no children or surviving parents.
• Spouse and children (from same marriage): The spouse inherits the first $30,000 plus half of the remaining estate, while the children inherit the other half.
• Spouse and children (from prior relationship): The spouse inherits half, while the children share the other half.
• Children only: If there is no surviving spouse, the children inherit everything.
• Parents only: If there is no surviving spouse and no children, the parents inherit everything.
• Siblings and relatives: If no closer surviving relatives exist, siblings or more remote relatives may inherit.

Without a Will, you will have no control over the distribution of your property, and that can create complications and arguments among the surviving relatives.

The Importance of Estate Planning
At LM Attorney, we’ve witnessed confusion and litigation happen when people die without a Will. With your planning, you can control the process of:

• Who will inherit your property
• Who will raise your small children
• How your medical or financial affairs will be managed if you are incapacitated
• Avoiding probate and delays

With a Will, you’ll also be able to leave specific gifts, name a charitable beneficiary, and more, ensuring your wishes are fulfilled.

Let LM Attorney Assist You in Planning Ahead
Don’t let the state dictate your legacy. LM Attorney can create a legally-sound estate plan that carries out your wishes, protects your loved ones, and avoids future conflicts.

If you are wondering who inherits property if no Will in Pennsylvania, or if you are ready to create a Will or trust, contact LM Attorney today for a personalized consultation. Your future—and your family—deserve the peace of mind that planning brings.