Pennsylvania Wills

Drafting a Will in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know

At Clause Law Group, we help Pennsylvanians plan for the future with clarity and peace of mind. A last will and testament ensures your wishes are honored, your family is protected, and your estate is distributed according to your intent — not just state law. Whether you need a simple will or a comprehensive estate plan, our team is here to guide you.

This page explains everything you need to know about creating a legally valid will in Pennsylvania and why working with a skilled wills lawyer can make all the difference.

What Is a Will?

A will — also known as a last will and testament — is a legal document that states how your property will be distributed after your death. It allows you to:

If you die without a will in Pennsylvania, your estate will be distributed according to intestacy laws, which may not reflect your personal wishes.

Who Needs a Will in Pennsylvania?

Every adult should have a will — regardless of age, income, or family status. A will is especially important if you:

  • Own real estate
  • Have minor children
  • Are in a second marriage or blended family
  • Have specific wishes about who should (or should not) inherit
  • Want to leave assets to a friend, partner, or charity
  • Want to avoid family conflict or court disputes

Even if you already have a will, life changes such as marriage, divorce, new children, or major asset changes may mean it’s time for an update.

Legal Requirements for a Valid Will in Pennsylvania

Under 20 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 2501, a will is valid in Pennsylvania if it meets these conditions:

  • The testator (person making the will) is at least 18 years old and of sound mind
  • The will is in writing
  • The will is signed at the end by the testator
  • It is signed voluntarily, without undue influence or duress

Unlike some other states, Pennsylvania does not require witnesses when the will is signed. However, using a self-proving affidavit (a notarized statement) can help the will be accepted by the probate court without witness testimony.

What Happens If You Die Without a Will?

If you die without a will in Pennsylvania, your estate will be divided under the state’s intestate succession laws. This often leads to outcomes you didn’t intend — for example:

  • Your spouse and children may split the estate
  • Unintended heirs (like estranged relatives) could inherit
  • Minor children may receive assets outright without restrictions
  • The court chooses your child’s guardian or your estate executor

Having a will ensures that you, not the state, decide how your estate is handled.

What Can a Will Lawyer Help You Do?

Our Pennsylvania wills lawyers at Clause Law Group will:

  • Help you understand your estate planning options
  • Draft a custom will tailored to your needs and wishes
  • Ensure compliance with all Pennsylvania legal requirements
  • Include special provisions like pet trusts, staggered distributions for young beneficiaries, or digital asset instructions
  • Coordinate your will with other estate planning tools like powers of attorney, healthcare directives, or trusts

Wills vs. Trusts in Pennsylvania

While wills are an essential part of any estate plan, they don’t always avoid probate. If you want to avoid probate, maintain privacy, or manage assets during incapacity, a revocable living trust may be a better tool. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of each approach.

Updating or Revoking a Will

You can update your will at any time. We recommend reviewing your will every 3–5 years or whenever a major life event occurs:

  • Marriage or divorce
  • Birth or adoption of a child
  • Death of a named executor or beneficiary
  • Significant change in assets or residence

We can amend your will with a codicil or draft an entirely new one, depending on the scope of changes needed.

Work with a Pennsylvania Wills Attorney Who Cares

At Clause Law Group, we know these conversations aren’t always easy. But they’re among the most important. With decades of combined experience, we’re here to make the process as simple, thoughtful, and stress-free as possible.

Call our Pennsylvania office today at (570) 676-5212 or contact us online to speak with a wills attorney who will help you plan for the future — on your terms.