The Orphans’ Court was organized as a separate entity in the 1600s to protect orphaned children and their right to the estate of deceased family members from claims and against abuses by stepparents and others. The Orphans’ Court in Pennsylvania is now a specialized division in Pennsylvania's Court of Common Pleas. It...

Assets Most Commonly Left Out Of Estate Plans
Creating a comprehensive estate plan ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for after passing. However, people often overlook several key elements that can lead to confusion, disputes, or unintended consequences. Here are some commonly forgotten aspects that should be included in an estate plan:

Estate Planning Considerations For New Parents
When new parents in Pittsburgh welcome a child into their family, the joy and excitement can often overshadow the importance of planning for the future. However, estate planning is crucial to ensure their child’s well-being and security in unforeseen circumstances. By establishing a comprehensive estate plan, new parents can designate guardians, manage...

Legal Steps For Permanently Closing A Business
In Pennsylvania, closing a business involves several legal steps to ensure a smooth and legally compliant shutdown. Whether due to financial challenges, strategic shifts, or retirement, business owners must navigate a structured process to dissolve their entity. From notifying creditors and settling debts to filing dissolution paperwork with state authorities, each step...

Legal Considerations For Starting A Business In Pittsburgh
Starting a business in Pittsburgh can be an exciting venture, but many things need to be considered. Understanding the local legal landscape is crucial to your success, among other things. This involves being knowledgeable about city-specific regulations, choosing the right business structure, and ensuring compliance with tax obligations.

Can You Sell A Business But Keep Your Rights To The Brand Identity?
Selling your business in Pittsburgh is a significant decision that requires careful planning and strategic execution. Planning a sale is a complex process, especially when you desire to maintain your brand identity throughout the sale. Whether you are looking to retire, transition to a new venture, or simply move on, the goal...

Estate Planning for Pittsburgh Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Estate planning is a crucial consideration for entrepreneurs and business owners in Pittsburgh. It ensures that their business and personal assets are managed and distributed according to their wishes after they pass away or become incapacitated.
Key Components Of Estate Planning For Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Legal Basics of Leases in Commercial Real Estate Transactions
Whether you are an entrepreneur seeking to launch a new venture or an established business aiming to expand, managing the intricacies of commercial leases in Pittsburgh’s dynamic market requires local expertise. Leasing commercial real estate is a complex process with numerous legal considerations. It involves a binding agreement between a landlord...

Pros and Cons Of Non-Disclosure Agreements
Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) have become a focal point of controversy and debate in Pennsylvania, raising questions about transparency and privacy in both corporate and public sectors. These legal contracts, designed to keep certain information confidential, are increasingly scrutinized for how they balance protecting business interests and individual rights against the need for...

The Legal Validity Of Handwritten Wills
A handwritten will, known as a "holographic" will, can be legally valid in Pennsylvania under certain conditions. The validity and enforceability of such a will depend on several factors determined by the state's probate laws. Contact a Pennsylvania estate planning attorney about wills today.
Considerations When Determining...