In Pennsylvania, a will becomes public record after it is filed with the Register of Wills following the death of the testator, i.e. the individual who made the will.
The probate process, the process where a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed, is initiated by submitting the Will to the Register of Wills in the county where the testator lived. The Will is validated and the executor or executrix is granted the authority to manage the estate.
Many people think wills are filed with the courthouse upon execution but that is not the case. Once a will is filed with the Register of Wills it becomes public record, and anyone can request a copy by visiting the Register of Wills office or in some cases and for counties who have online access, through the online portal.
If you have any questions about the topic discussed in this article, or any estate law matter, please give us a call at Bononi & Company 724-832-2499.