Death & the Law – the Estate and Probate Process
There is an old expression - “you can’t take it with you when you die”. Unfortunately, the person who first penned those words gave no answers as to what becomes of your property, financial accounts, investments, debts and responsibilities upon your passing. Under Pennsylvania Law, when an individual dies owning assets, a family member, or an appointed representative, will typically need to open an estate to settle the deceased person’s affairs. This process is often referred to as Probate and Estate Administration. What is the Estate and Probate Process? The “estate” of a deceased person
Divorce: What Happens to my Property?
When going through a divorce, one of the biggest questions is what happens to your property? In Pennsylvania, the process of dividing marital assets through divorce is known as “equitable distribution”. Many of our clients initially assume this means that all assets will be split evenly between the spouses; however, this is not accurate. The division of property depends upon a number of important factors. If you’re considering a divorce, the following guide will help you understand what property is at risk for distribution, and how it can be distributed. What Property is at Risk for Equitable Distribution? Generally speaking, in a
The ARD Program
Being charged with a crime can be a daunting and terrifying experience. We, at Sebelin & Sebelin P.C., are well versed in handling criminal offenses. For first time offenders, there are often many options in dealing with your criminal charges. One of those options is the ARD Program. What is the ARD Program? In Pennsylvania, if you are a first-time offender, or an individual with a limited criminal record, you may be considered for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Program (ARD Program). ARD is an alternative to the typical trial, conviction, and sentencing approach of the criminal justice system. If an individual
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – FAQ
The consumption of alcohol, illegal drugs, and certain prescription medications have the potential to impair your ability to operate a motor vehicle. In Pennsylvania, if it is determined that you have been driving a motor vehicle while so influenced, you may be arrested for “driving under the influence” or “DUI”. DUI is a serious criminal offense which may jeopardize your freedom and financial security. The attorneys at Sebelin & Sebelin, P.C. have been handling DUI cases for over twenty years. If you have been charged for a DUI, you should contact our office immediately to schedule a free consultation. But
Spotlight on: David M. Sebelin, Esquire
“A law firm should be more than just a business, it should be a refuge of the accused and an advocate of the community.” - David M. Sebelin, Esquire David, never envisioned himself becoming a lawyer. “My dad worked at the Palmerton Zinc Company, my mom was a teacher’s aide at Panther Valley, I wanted a career where I could make a difference for someone like them” said David. Graduating Suma Cum Laude from Wilkes University’s class of 2008, Attorney Sebelin originally envisioned a career in journalism or working on behalf of a non-profit group. While studying at Wilkes, David furthered