5 Trusted Estate Planning Attorneys in Luzerne County, PA

Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take for your family and your assets. Whether you need a will, a trust, or help with business succession, finding the right attorney in Luzerne County can

Estate Planning in Luzerne County: What You Need to Know

Estate planning in Pennsylvania involves more than just drafting a will. It includes powers of attorney, healthcare directives, trusts, and strategies to minimize inheritance taxes. Local attorneys understand the specific probate procedures of the Luzerne County Register of Wills and can help you avoid common pitfalls. With over 40 years of combined experience among the firms on this list, you have access to deep local knowledge and personalized guidance.

How We Ranked These Firms

We evaluated each firm based on their years of experience, range of services (estate planning, business law, real estate, veterans' benefits), client reviews and reputation, and their ability to communicate complex legal concepts in plain language. We also considered accessibility, including office locations and consultation availability.

Here's a quick look at the top five estate planning attorneys in Luzerne County, ranked from 5 to 1.

Detailed Reviews of Each Firm

#1 Slusser Law Firm

A screenshot of the Slusser Law Firm website.

Slusser Law Firm, with offices in Hazleton and Forty Fort, is a full-service firm that excels in estate planning and administration. They serve clients across Eastern Pennsylvania and have a strong focus on wills, trusts, and navigating the estate administration process after a loved one passes. The firm also handles personal injury, real estate, bankruptcy, and business law, making them a one-stop shop for many legal needs. Their team is known for being responsive and client-focused, with Spanish language services available. For a firm that combines estate planning expertise with a wide range of other practice areas, Slusser Law Firm is our top pick.

#2 Hoegen & Associates, P.C.

A screenshot of the Hoegen & Associates, P.C. website.

Hoegen & Associates, P.C. focuses on helping clients avoid probate through tools like transfer on death (TOD) deeds and accounts. Their Luzerne County estate lawyers work to preserve estate value and ensure assets are distributed according to your wishes. The firm also handles business organization, commercial litigation, real estate law, and title insurance. They offer a free consultation and are known for their strategic, proactive approach. If minimizing probate is a top priority, this firm has the expertise to guide you.

#3 Mahler Law Firm LLC

Mahler Law Firm LLC, located in Forty Fort, provides a wide array of legal services including estate planning and administration, business law, real estate, and litigation. Their team of attorneys brings decades of combined experience to each case. They offer personalized attention and have a strong reputation for handling complex estate and business matters. The firm also publishes articles on topics like investment advisor codes of ethics and spousal election rights, showcasing their depth of knowledge. For those needing both estate planning and business counsel, Mahler is a strong contender.

#4 Clause Law Group

Clause Law Group offers comprehensive estate planning services including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and inheritance tax planning. They emphasize the importance of a local attorney who understands Luzerne County probate court procedures and regional real estate issues. Their blog provides helpful insights on what to expect during the estate planning process. The firm serves clients in Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Mountain Top, and beyond. They are known for their clear, step-by-step guidance and commitment to avoiding court delays and family disputes.

#5 Estate & Business Law Services | Plymouth, PA

A screenshot of the Estate & Business Law Services | Plymouth, PA website.

The Law Office of Thomas A. O'Connor PC has been serving Luzerne County and Wyoming Valley for over 40 years. They offer a broad range of services including estate planning, estate administration, real estate law, business and corporate law, and veterans' benefits. The firm prides itself on clear communication in everyday language and personalized legal solutions. They are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with weekend appointments available by request. Their long-standing reputation for professionalism and accessibility makes them a solid choice for individuals, families, and small businesses.

How to Choose the Right Estate Planning Attorney for You

Start by identifying your primary needs: do you need a simple will, a trust to avoid probate, or help with business succession? Look for an attorney with specific experience in those areas. Consider their communication style—do they explain things in plain language? Check their office location and hours to ensure they're convenient. Finally, read client reviews and ask about their approach to inheritance tax planning, which is especially important in Pennsylvania.

Streamline Your Estate Planning Research

To compare these firms efficiently, create a simple spreadsheet with columns for services offered, years in business, client ratings, and consultation availability. Use the firm websites to fill in the details. Then, rank them based on which factors matter most to you, such as specialization in veterans' benefits or probate avoidance. This structured approach will help you make an informed decision without feeling overwhelmed.

Your Next Step Toward Peace of Mind

Estate planning is an investment in your family's future and your own peace of mind. Whether you choose the personalized service of Estate & Business Law Services or the full-service approach of Slusser Law Firm, each of these five firms brings unique strengths to the table. Schedule a consultation with the attorney that best matches your needs, and take the first step toward protecting what matters most.