Navigating the probate process following the death of a loved one can feel overwhelming and confusing. Beyond the emotional toll of grief, there are numerous legal steps, court proceedings, and financial matters that must be handled properly. Many people don’t realize the complexity involved until they are facing it during an already difficult time.
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., our estate administration attorneys understand these challenges. We recently sat down with Attorney Amy Stern from our firm to discuss how professional legal help can make a difference during this difficult process. Drawing from her extensive experience handling estate matters, Attorney Stern shared valuable insights about the probate process and how families can navigate it more effectively.
The Emotional Challenge of Estate Administration
When asked about why people might struggle with estate administration on their own, Attorney Stern explains: “It’s hard for family members dealing with estate administration themselves because they’re emotionally attached to the situation. They have just been through the death of a loved one, which is difficult enough, let alone having to deal with all the legal steps, court proceedings, selling property, and dealing with banks and creditors.”
This emotional component makes objective decision-making difficult at a time when clear thinking is essential. An estate administration attorney can shoulder these responsibilities while family members focus on their personal needs.
What Estate Administration Attorneys Handle
The probate process involves numerous steps that must be completed in the correct order. According to Attorney Stern, “We take that off their shoulders so they can grieve and make their arrangements, deal with their family and everything else. And we handle the legal end of it for them.”
This legal assistance typically includes several critical services that ensure the process moves forward properly. These services include:
- Filing the petition with the court and the required documents
- Scheduling and attending probate hearings
- Obtaining short certificates
- Notifying financial institutions, government agencies, and creditors
- Managing the process differently based on whether there is a will or not
Each of these steps requires attention to detail and knowledge of specific legal requirements to avoid delays or complications in the probate process.
Common Complications That May Arise
Even seemingly straightforward estates can develop complications. Attorney Stern notes that “We talk about that all the time, how we feel like we’ve seen everything and then something new comes up.”
Our knowledgeable attorneys have encountered numerous challenges that can arise during estate administration. Some of the most common complications include:
- Disagreements among siblings about who should administer the estate
- Beneficiaries who cannot be located
- Real estate issues, especially when a beneficiary is living in the property
- Personal property that needs to be divided or appraised
- Tax matters that must be properly addressed
Professional estate attorneys have witnessed these scenarios before and can navigate them legally and efficiently, saving families considerable stress and potentially preventing costly mistakes.
Working With Beneficiaries During Conflicts
Family dynamics can become strained during the estate administration process. When conflicts arise, an attorney can serve as a neutral party.
“We try to do our best to communicate with all the beneficiaries because we are representing the estate,” explains Attorney Stern. “We are trying to help everybody in this situation—not just the person named as executor or administrator, but all the beneficiaries and family members, because they are all going through a hard time.”
This balanced approach helps ensure that everyone’s concerns are heard while keeping the process moving forward appropriately.
Coordinating With Other Professionals
Estate administration often requires coordination with various professionals. Attorney Stern shares that “We have a whole host of people that we work with that we refer to in these situations that deal with estates all the time, and they are used to dealing with people going through difficult emotional circumstances.”
The estate administration process frequently requires expertise from multiple fields to address different aspects of the estate. Some of the professionals we regularly coordinate with include:
- Real estate agents and appraisers
- Accountants for tax matters
- Financial advisors
- Property appraisers for valuables and collections
Having an attorney who maintains these professional relationships can streamline the process and ensure that qualified experts are handling specialized aspects of the estate efficiently.
When Litigation Becomes Necessary
While most estate matters can be resolved without court intervention, sometimes litigation becomes unavoidable. Attorney Stern explains that “Sometimes they do end up in litigation, not often. It is unfortunate when that happens, but sometimes there is no alternative.”
In these instances, having an attorney who is already familiar with your situation and the specific court procedures for orphans’ court matters is invaluable.
Providing Clear Communication and Support
Perhaps one of the most important services an estate administration attorney provides is clear communication during a confusing time. As Attorney Stern puts it, “When you talk over people’s heads and you talk in all kinds of legalese, it is hard for people to understand, and they have to sign a lot of things. They do not really understand what they are signing.”
A good attorney breaks down complex legal concepts and documents in understandable terms, ensuring that clients know exactly what is happening at each step of the process.
Contact Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C.
If you are facing the probate process and feeling overwhelmed, the talented estate administration attorneys at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. may be able to provide the guidance you need. With our extensive experience, we may be able to identify potential issues before they become problems, saving you time, money, and emotional stress during an already difficult period.
To discuss your estate administration needs, call Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. today at (215) 822-7575 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
July 11, 2025
