Estate Planning Lawyer
Estate Planning Lawyer Serving Scranton and Northeastern Pennsylvania
Protect your family, assets, and future with a plan that’s legally sound and easy to understand. I help Scranton residents take control of life’s “what ifs” with confidence.
Estate Planning that Fits Your Life
Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming or complicated. At The Law Offices of Robert S. Betnar, I help individuals and families in Scranton and across Northeastern Pennsylvania create wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives that reflect their goals. I explain every step in plain English—so you can make decisions with clarity and peace of mind.
With decades of experience in both law enforcement and estate law, I bring a practical, approachable perspective to your planning needs. Whether you’re just getting started or updating an old plan, I’m here to help.
Estate Planning Services in Scranton
Make your wishes clear and protect your loved ones with a Pennsylvania-valid will tailored to your situation.
Avoid probate, manage assets, and provide for loved ones with custom trust solutions—like revocable living trusts or special needs trusts.
Appoint someone you trust to handle financial and legal matters if you can’t. I make sure the language is legally strong and specific to your needs.
Healthcare Directives
Set clear instructions for your medical care so your wishes are followed if you can’t speak for yourself.
Blended Families & Seniors
I create estate plans that address second marriages, adult children, long-term care, and more—because every family is different.
Estate Planning in Pennsylvania
What You Need to Know
Pennsylvania has specific laws that affect what happens to your property and medical decisions if you don’t have the right documents in place. I help Scranton-area clients avoid legal issues and make sure their plans are enforceable.
Dying Without a Will Triggers Intestacy Laws
The state—not you—will decide who gets what.
PA Has an Inheritance Tax
Smart estate planning can reduce the tax burden on your beneficiaries.
Some Assets Skip Probate Automatically
I’ll help you understand which accounts or property fall into this category.
Not All Documents Are Created Equal
Online forms often don’t hold up in Pennsylvania courts. I create plans that are clear, legal, and personalized.
Estate Planning Questions?
I’ve Got Answers for Scranton Families
Do I need an estate plan if I’m young or don’t have much?
Yes. Estate planning isn’t just about wealth—it’s about protecting your loved ones, medical preferences, and any assets you do have. Even a basic will and power of attorney can save your family time and stress if something unexpected happens. I help Scranton residents at all life stages build plans that fit their needs.
How often should I update my estate plan?
I recommend reviewing your plan every few years or after major life events like marriage, divorce, having children, or buying a home. What made sense five years ago might not reflect your current goals. I help you keep your plan current and legally sound under Pennsylvania law.
Is probate always required in Pennsylvania?
Not always. Some assets can pass directly to beneficiaries without probate, depending on how they’re titled. But many estates do go through probate unless a trust or other strategy is in place. I help Scranton families understand what applies to their situation and how to avoid unnecessary delays.
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will outlines your wishes after death and usually goes through probate. A trust allows for more control and can avoid probate entirely in some cases. I help Scranton clients understand whether a trust makes sense based on their assets, family dynamics, and estate goals.
What happens if I become incapacitated without a power of attorney?
Without one, your family may need to go through a court process to manage your finances or make healthcare decisions. This can be stressful, costly, and time-consuming. I help you avoid that by setting up durable powers of attorney and healthcare directives in advance—so your wishes are clear and legally backed.
