Under no other circumstances as defined by law will the Berks County Register of Wills issue a short certificate. A completed petition for probate and grant of letters. A death certificate. Sworn English translation if will is written in a foreign language. Wills are generally accepted for probate only in the county where the decedent was legally domiciled at the time of death.
Estate administration is conducted more effectively with the assistance of legal counsel.
Clerks in the Register's office who process various estate-related documents are not familiar with assets and obligations of the estate which is being administered. The Register of Wills and staff are not licensed to give legal advice. They could save time and money in the long run due to their knowledge and experience. Where there is no will, an administrator is appointed by the court to handle the estate. Individuals or institutions entitled to administer an estate are established by law.