When a loved one passes away, the last thing most families expect is a court battle. Unfortunately, disagreements over an estate are more common than many realize. Estate litigation in Pennsylvania often arises when family members, beneficiaries, or creditors cannot agree on how a will or trust should be interpreted or how assets should be distributed
Read MorePlanning for the future isn’t just about writing a will or creating a trust—it’s also about making sure you and your family are financially protected if the unexpected happens. One of the most overlooked pieces of an estate plan is long-term care insurance.
Read MoreIf you live in West Virginia, having a Power of Attorney (POA) can be one of the most important legal steps you take to protect yourself and your loved ones. A Power of Attorney allows you to give someone you trust the legal authority to act on your behalf if you can’t make decisions for yourself.
Read MoreWhen couples are planning a wedding, the last thing they usually want to talk about is a prenup. But prenuptial agreements—also called “premarital agreements”—are not about planning for divorce. They are about protecting your future, your family, and the assets you’ve worked hard to build.
Read MoreLitigation can feel overwhelming — especially if it’s your first time facing a lawsuit in West Virginia. Whether you are a business owner, an individual, or part of a family dispute, understanding the process can make the experience less stressful.
Read MoreDivorce is one of life’s biggest transitions. While you’re focused on moving forward emotionally and financially, one critical step is often overlooked — updating your estate plan after divorce.
Read MoreIf you're considering a divorce in Pennsylvania or West Virginia, one of your biggest concerns is probably cost. The financial side of ending a marriage can feel overwhelming—especially when you're trying to plan for legal fees, filing costs, and life after divorce.
Read MoreWhen it comes to estate planning, most people think a will is enough. But as families and assets become more complex, so do the potential problems that can arise during estate administration.
Read MoreAt The Skeen Firm, we understand that navigating the probate process after the loss of a loved one can feel overwhelming. Our West Virginia probate attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way with compassionate, efficient, and personalized legal support. This in-depth guide explains each stage of the probate process in West Virginia, offering clarity and confidence to individuals managing estate matters.
Read MoreIt is no secret that America is a litigious country. People want to sue someone over everything and anything thinking that going to court for a stubbed toe could be their “golden ticket”. This is caused or made worse by social media and the news, repeatedly showing multi-million-dollar settlements for what appear to be minor injuries or inconveniences.
Read MoreDivorce is one of the most emotionally charged events a person can experience. Anger, betrayal, grief, guilt — the emotional landscape is complex and can easily overwhelm good judgment. Yet when it comes to protecting your future, your assets, and your family’s well-being, emotion is your worst enemy.
Read MoreUnder Pa. R.C.P. No. 4003.1, each party must disclose information relevant to the case. That includes emails, contracts, photos, and more. They are not allowed to hide documents or selectively respond
Read MoreStarting a family business in Pennsylvania or West Virginia? Learn how to legally structure your family-owned business to minimize liability, protect relationships, and set your company up for long-term success.
Read MoreBefore you sign that business contract in Pennsylvania, ask these 10 key legal questions. Learn how to protect your business, reduce risk, and avoid costly disputes.
Read MoreEssential 2025 legal‑document checklist for PA & WV small businesses—download a free printable PDF & stay compliant with new state regulations.
Read MoreSuccession planning isn’t just a legal matter — it’s personal. Whether you’re planning for retirement, preparing for the unexpected, or hoping to pass your business down to the next generation, having a strong succession plan in place can make all the differenc
Read MoreExplore the pivotal West Virginia Supreme Court case Kubican v. The Tavern, LLC and how it reshaped limited liability protections for LLC members—until the 2022 legislative changes reversed course. A must-read for business owners, attorneys, and entrepreneurs.
Read MoreFor many, litigation can be the most stressful things you ever do, whether you're the one filing a lawsuit or the one being sued. Lawyers who live and breathe litigation may forget this, leading to failure to properly prepare a client for the battle ahead. Understanding the process can help you prepare and make informed decisions. Here’s a basic, step-by-step guide to what you can expect.
Read MoreIn a significant opinion for family law practitioners and parents navigating custody disputes in Pennsylvania, the Superior Court's recent decision in McGee v. McDowell (No. 765 WDA 2024) underscores the importance of strictly adhering to statutory procedures and due process rights in custody litigation.
Read MoreWhen facing a civil lawsuit in Pennsylvania, one of the first questions that arise is whether your case will, or can, be heard in state or federal court. The court where your case is filed can significantly impact the legal process, available remedies, and procedural rules. Here’s what you need to know about how courts are determined and why your case may be in one system or the other.
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