In Pennsylvania, disputes arising from trusts and estates are handled in a division of the Courts of Common Pleas known as the Orphan’s Court.
These disputes may include will contests, necessary appointment of trustee, challenges to the validity of a power of attorney, claims of breach of duty, delay, or abuse of power relative to trustees, powers of attorney, executors and other fiduciaries, etc. In Bucks County, the Orphan’s Court division is also responsible for Guardianship and Adoption cases, as well as Marriage Licenses.
The Orphans’ Court operates under a unique set of Pennsylvania and local rules that are distinct from those in ordinary civil proceedings. Accordingly, practice before the Orphan’s Court requires specific knowledge and experience with these rules and the required form of pleadings and motions.
While not all estate, trust and related disputes end up in litigation, and an amicable, reasonable and cost-effective resolution is always first attempted, attorneys Peter Reiss, Daniel Keane and Josephine Lee have experience pleading and litigating in Orphan’s Court and are prepared to vigorously represent their clients through Orphan’s Court litigation.
