Allegheny County, Pennsylvania

Probate in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania

Allegheny County probate filings are heard at the Pittsburgh courthouse under Pennsylvania law (20 Pa.C.S. §§ 3101 et seq. (Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code)). The process below applies statewide; specific court fees and forms are available from the Allegheny County Clerk.

Allegheny County probate at a glance

County seat
Pittsburgh
Court
Register of Wills; Orphans' Court Division for contested matters
Population (est.)
1,233,253
Typical timeline
36–78 weeks
Filing fee
$150–$1000
Small-estate threshold
$50,000
Statute
20 Pa.C.S. §§ 3101 et seq. (Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code)

For exact fees + forms, check the Allegheny County Clerk’s office or the state source: www.pacourts.us.

Pennsylvania probate, step by step

  1. 1File petition for probate with the Register of Wills
  2. 2Register grants letters testamentary or of administration
  3. 3Advertise grant of letters in newspaper and legal journal
  4. 4File inventory within nine months and pay PA inheritance tax
  5. 5File account with Orphans' Court or family settlement agreement and distribute

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Other Pennsylvania counties

This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county. Consult a licensed Pennsylvania probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.