Estate Planning Lawyer
Estate Planning Lawyer Helping Families in Hazleton, PA
Create an estate plan that protects your loved ones and makes your wishes clear. I help Hazleton families plan for the future with confidence and peace of mind.
Local, Personalized Estate Planning Help
Estate planning is about more than paperwork—it’s about making decisions that protect your family, your property, and your legacy. At The Law Offices of Robert S. Betnar, I provide practical, approachable estate planning services for clients in Hazleton and throughout Luzerne County. I guide you through every step, from writing a will to setting up a trust or healthcare directive.
My goal is to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. With years of legal experience and a straightforward style, I’ll help you put a plan in place that truly fits your life.
Hazleton Estate Planning Services
A legally valid will gives you control over who receives your assets and who cares for your children. I make sure yours meets Pennsylvania requirements and reflects your exact wishes.
Trusts can help you avoid probate, protect beneficiaries, and manage your assets more efficiently. I tailor every trust to your specific goals.
Appoint someone you trust to manage your finances or legal affairs if you become unable to do so. I’ll make sure your documents are clear and enforceable.
Living Wills
A healthcare directive ensures your medical wishes are honored if you can’t communicate them. I prepare this with sensitivity and care.
Estate Planning for Complex Families
Whether you’re in a blended family, have out-of-state heirs, or want to leave a legacy, I help you create a plan that reflects your life and values.
Estate Planning in Pennsylvania
What Hazleton Families Should Know
Pennsylvania’s estate laws are detailed and specific—and missing something could cause delays, taxes, or stress for your family. I help you avoid those problems by drafting clear, legally sound documents that protect what matters most.
Dying Without a Will Triggers PA Intestacy Law
The state—not your family—decides who inherits your property.
An Inheritance Tax May Apply
I walk you through how to reduce or plan around this Pennsylvania-specific tax.
Trusts May Reduce Probate Headaches
For some Hazleton families, a revocable living trust offers privacy and speed.
You Can Update Plans Anytime
As life changes, your documents should too. I make it easy to keep things current.
Estate Planning Questions?
Answers for Hazleton Residents
How do I start an estate plan in Hazleton?
The first step is a conversation. I’ll learn more about your family, your goals, and what you want to protect. Then, I’ll recommend the right documents and take care of all the legal drafting. Most Hazleton clients can complete the process in just a few meetings—no confusion, no pressure.
Is a handwritten will legal in Pennsylvania?
Technically yes, but handwritten wills (also called holographic wills) are easy to challenge and often don’t hold up in court. I make sure your will meets Pennsylvania legal standards so your loved ones are protected and your instructions are followed.
Do I need both a will and a power of attorney?
Yes—these documents serve different purposes. A will outlines what happens after death. A power of attorney allows someone to act on your behalf while you’re still alive. I help you set up both so your wishes are covered no matter what life brings.
What happens if I don’t have a living will?
Without one, your family could be left guessing about your medical care if you become incapacitated. I help Hazleton residents create clear healthcare directives that ease that burden and ensure your choices are honored.
Can you help with estate planning for aging parents?
Absolutely. I work with many adult children in Hazleton who are helping parents get their affairs in order. I take a calm, respectful approach that makes sure everyone understands the documents and feels confident in the plan. It’s never too early—or too late—to start.
