5 Unique Estate Issues You Shouldn’t Ignore
Essential Insights for Families in Pennsylvania & West Virginia
When 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. At The Skeen Firm, we help clients across Pennsylvania and West Virginia address estate issues that traditional plans often overlook.
Below are five unique estate challenges that deserve your attention—and how the right legal guidance can help you avoid unnecessary conflict and cost.
1. Digital Assets & Cryptocurrency
Today’s estates often include more than just bank accounts and real estate. You may have:
Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
Online income streams (YouTube, Etsy, digital courses)
Cloud storage or domain names
Social media and email accounts
Why it matters:
Without legal access instructions and updated documents, your executor may not even know these assets exist—let alone how to access or distribute them. In the case of crypto, if your private keys are lost, your funds are gone forever.
How we help: We ensure your estate plan includes secure, legal access to your digital assets.
2. Out-of-State or International Property
Do you own real estate in more than one state—or abroad? For example:
A second home in Maryland or New Jersey
Investment property out-of-state
Foreign bank accounts or inherited land overseas
Why it matters:
When you pass away with property in multiple jurisdictions, your loved ones may have to navigate ancillary probate or foreign inheritance laws—slowing down the process and increasing costs.
How we help: We use trusts and smart titling strategies to help you avoid multiple probate proceedings.
3. Blended Families & Unequal Inheritance Plans
Modern families come in all shapes:
Stepchildren or adopted children
Children from prior marriages
Long-term unmarried partners
Estranged or dependent adult children
Why it matters:
State intestacy laws (what happens if you die without a will) don’t account for blended or non-traditional family dynamics. If your wishes aren’t clear, your loved ones may end up in court.
How we help: We tailor your plan to reflect your true priorities—whether that means equal distribution, protecting a second spouse, or leaving different amounts to different children.
4. High-Value or Sentimental Personal Property
You may not think twice about who gets the family jewelry, artwork, or collectibles—but your heirs might.
Why it matters:
Disputes over “who gets what” can escalate quickly, especially if the estate plan doesn’t give clear guidance on personal items. Even sentimental items can cause major rifts between siblings or heirs.
How we help: We provide detailed personal property instructions and clear conflict resolution mechanisms to minimize the risk of family disputes.
5. Beneficiaries with Special Needs or Risk Factors
Planning for a loved one who:
Receives Medicaid or disability benefits
Struggles with mental health or addiction
Is a minor or has a legal guardian
Is facing bankruptcy or creditors
Why it matters:
A direct inheritance could disqualify them from government benefits—or be lost to poor financial decisions or legal judgments.
How we help: We use special needs trusts, spendthrift trusts, and other tools to ensure your gift supports them without putting their future at risk.
Don’t Leave Your Legacy to Chance
These issues aren't just hypothetical—they're common, and they can derail even the best intentions if not handled properly. Estate planning is about more than just passing on wealth—it's about protecting your family and legacy in a changing world.
If you live in Pennsylvania or West Virginia, we’d be honored to help you build a plan that fits your real life—not just a template.
👉 Book a discovery call with The Skeen Firm today and take the first step toward a confident, customized estate plan.
*Disclaimer: the advice provided is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice. It should not be relied on, nor construed as creating an attorney-client relationship.