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Orphans Court Representation Attorneys in Media, PA
Law Offices in Delaware County, PA and Haddon Heights, NJ
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Professionalism is the Word
I highly Recommend Gibson & Perkins. I have used their services for approximately 6 years now and been through a few cases together with very positive outcomes. Personally, I have used Paul Fellman and Walter Timby on those occasions. Both, as a team & separately these Attorneys were wonderful to work with and easily accessible to reach if I had any questions. Professionalism is the word that comes to mind to describe the firm, as a whole. Always completely prepared for any surprises that may pop up during a trial. They were well versed on all pertinent info pertaining to each case. As I client, I always felt I was an integral part of the team, not an after-thought, that had to be brought up to speed a half hour before the trial started. I could not recommend this firm and Mr. Fellman and Mr. Timby any higher.Very Satisfied
I hired Paul Fellman after speaking to several different lawyers from different law firms because he was the most sincere. Paul did an excellent job on my landlord tenant issue I had on my rental property. He was there for me from the beginning to the end of the whole ordeal. I was very satisfied and I highly recommend him and his firm.
Orphans Court Representation
The lawyers of Gibson & Perkins, PC have significant experience with estate and trust litigation. We represent clients in disputes that can take a variety of forms.
Orphan’s Court Litigation
Some common types of cases that we handle are:
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Will Contests – Challenges to the validity of a will.
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Estate and Executor Litigation – Claims by or against executors regarding the administration of estates.
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Trust and Trustee Litigation – Claims by or against trustees regarding the administration of trusts.
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Guardianship and Incapacity Hearings – Appointment of a guardian for an incapacitated individual.
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Power of Attorney Issues – Challenges to the validity of a power of attorney, and claims of abuse by the power of attorney agent.
These types of cases are generally litigated in the county Orphans’ Court.
Other Orphan’s Court Representation
In addition to litigation, the Orphan’s Court presides over many administrative areas of the law. In this area, some common types of cases that we handle are:
- Distribution of Estate Assets to Beneficiaries
- Recognition of the Estate’s Creditors’ Rights
- Settlement of Accountings filed by Executors or Trustees
- Nonprofit Corporation Dissolution and Winding Down
The attorneys of Gibson & Perkins, PC are prepared to pursue, defend, provide advice on issues involving all of these issues and more.
We are well qualified to serve your needs, and we maintain the highest standards of professionalism in our work.
Our Team
Edward L. Perkins
BA, JD, LLM (Tax), CPA
Walter J. Timby, III
BS, JD, LLM (Tax), CPA
Paul Fellman
BA, JD
Frank W. Daly
BS, JD, LLM (Tax), CPA
Dylan Mason
BS, JD
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Frequently Asked Questions About Orphans Court Litigation Attorneys In Media Pa
What is the purpose of Pennsylvania's Orphans' Court?
The Orphans’ Court is a specialized division of the Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas that handles matters related to decedents’ estates, trusts, guardianships, and adoptions. It is where legal disputes over wills, estate administration, and fiduciary duties are litigated. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of Orphans’ Court procedures and can guide you through the process.
What are the most common reasons to challenge a will in Pennsylvania?
The most common reasons to challenge a will in Pennsylvania include allegations of undue influence (a person being coerced into signing), lack of testamentary capacity (the person was not of sound mind), or fraud. A will can also be challenged if there were errors in its execution. The attorneys at Gibson & Perkins, PC can evaluate your case and determine if you have grounds for a will contest.
Can an executor be removed by the Orphans' Court?
Yes, an executor can be removed by the Orphans’ Court for failing to fulfill their fiduciary duties, such as mishandling estate assets, failing to provide an accounting, or engaging in a conflict of interest. Our firm can assist beneficiaries in filing a petition to remove an executor and seek a proper accounting of the estate.
How does Orphans' Court handle disputes over a trust?
Orphans’ Court handles trust disputes by providing a forum for beneficiaries to challenge a trustee’s actions, such as improper asset management, self-dealing, or failure to make timely distributions. The court can order the trustee to provide a formal accounting, and if necessary, can remove them. The attorneys at Gibson & Perkins, PC have extensive experience with trust litigation.
What is the difference between an executor and an administrator?
An executor is the person named in a will to manage and distribute a decedent’s estate. An administrator is a person appointed by the Orphans’ Court to manage an estate when there is no will or when the named executor is unable or unwilling to serve. Both are fiduciaries with strict legal duties. Our lawyers can represent either in a dispute.
How is a guardianship established for an incapacitated person?
A guardianship for an incapacitated person is established through a legal petition filed with the Orphans’ Court. The court will hold a hearing to determine if the individual lacks the capacity to make their own decisions. If so, a guardian is appointed to handle their personal and/or financial affairs. Our firm can guide you through this sensitive and complex process.
How long does Orphans' Court litigation typically take?
The duration of Orphans’ Court litigation can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, and the court’s schedule. While some disputes are settled quickly through negotiation or mediation, others may proceed to trial and appeal, taking several months or even years. We strive for the most efficient resolution possible.
Client Reviews
“I highly Recommend Gibson & Perkins. I have used their services for approximately 6 years now and been through a few cases together with very positive outcomes. Personally, I have used Paul Fellman and Walter Timby on those occasions. Both, as a team & separately these Attorneys were wonderful to work with and easily accessible to reach if I had any questions. Professionalism is the word that comes to mind to describe the firm, as a whole. Always completely prepared for any surprises that may pop up during a trial. They were well versed on all pertinent info pertaining to each case. As I client, I always felt I was an integral part of the team, not an after-thought, that had to be brought up to speed a half hour before the trial started. I could not recommend this firm and Mr. Fellman and Mr. Timby any higher.”
– Maria Twining
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