Frequently Asked Questions

Probate in Pennsylvania involves filing the estate with the appropriate court, gathering assets, paying creditor claims, and distributing property to heirs. The executor manages deadlines and paperwork to minimize delays. At The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C., we guide Lehighton families through each required step.

You should update your will when your family grows, assets change, or major life circumstances shift. Regular reviews help avoid confusion and unintended outcomes. The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C. encourages clients to revisit their wills as situations evolve.

A living will states your medical treatment preferences if you can't speak, while a durable power of attorney names someone to make financial or healthcare decisions on your behalf. Both work together under Pennsylvania law. We help Lehighton residents prepare and coordinate these advance directives.

Child support calculations depend on each parent's income, parenting time, and certain expenses like childcare and health insurance. Pennsylvania uses guidelines that account for local employment and cost of living. The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C. helps Lehighton clients prepare accurate documentation.

Choose someone organized, trustworthy, and realistically able to serve in your area. Your executor will file court documents, gather assets, and communicate with heirs. At The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C., we guide Lehighton residents through naming executors and backup choices.

The biggest mistake is missing court deadlines or distributing assets before creditor claims are addressed. These errors can create legal and financial problems for the estate. We work with Lehighton executors to carefully manage paperwork and timelines from the start.

Yes, custody orders can be modified if there's a significant change in circumstances affecting the child's best interests. Parents must file a petition and present evidence in court. The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C. represents Lehighton parents in modification and enforcement proceedings.

Store originals in a safe, accessible place and give copies to your agents, family, and doctors. Make sure local hospitals and financial institutions serving Lehighton have access when needed. We provide guidance on sharing and updating these critical documents.

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal and request a hearing before a referee. Timely action protects your access to wage loss and medical benefits. The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C. represents injured workers in Lehighton through denials and appeals.

Parents can agree on custody through negotiation or mediation, but if they can't, the court will decide based on the child's best interests. Shared plans often work better with school and work schedules. We help Lehighton parents develop practical, enforceable parenting plans.

Assets titled solely in the deceased's name typically go through probate, including real estate, vehicles, and personal accounts. Jointly owned property and accounts with beneficiaries often pass outside probate. We help Lehighton families identify and gather assets efficiently.

Consulting a lawyer before you act helps you understand court requirements, deadlines, and your legal responsibilities. Early guidance prevents costly mistakes and delays. At The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C., we offer compassionate, organized support to executors in Lehighton.