How We Can Help
Estate Planning & Administration
Attorney in Canonsburg, PA
When should I start estate planning? What happens if I die and don’t have a will in Pennsylvania? Do I need a trust, a power of attorney, or both? At McKelvey Elder Law & Estate Planning, we know these are some of the most common questions people ask and we’re here to provide clear answers.
It’s never too early or too late to prepare for tomorrow. Whether you’re beginning your career, buying a home, starting a family, or planning for retirement, you can take steps today to protect your future. Our firm focuses on guiding individuals and families throughout Pennsylvania in the vital areas of estate planning and estate administration, real estate, elder law, and adoption, so you and your loved ones can move forward with security and peace of mind.
What Clients Say
Trusted by Families Across Western Pennsylvania
“We scheduled a meeting with Colt to do our wills. He immediately made us feel welcome and answered all of our questions. His office staff is also wonderful! Would highly recommend for anyone looking for easy and efficient family/estate planning.”
“Great family owned company who takes their time to get to know their clients personally. Nice to see a company that focuses on client experience over everything else. Highly recommend.”
“Colt McKelvey helped our church recently sign a commercial lease for a new building to use. He was very thorough in his response, took the time to explain potential landfalls for us, but really went above and beyond. He is smart, honest, thorough and really understood the terms of what was a fairly complex contract. He was also patient in answering our questions during a call with our board.”
Areas of Practice
How Can We Help You
Estate Planning & Administration
Estate planning is simply making a plan for what happens to your money, property, and important decisions if you become unable to manage them yourself or after you pass away.
Wills
A will is probably the most familiar tool used in estate planning. In order to have a valid will in Pennsylvania, a person must follow strict guidelines.
Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that creates an agency relationship between the principal (the person granting the power) and the agent (the person receiving the power).
Trusts
A trust is a complex legal document used as a substitute for a will and therefore potentially avoiding probate which can save time and costs.
Elder Law
Elder Law is a specialized area of legal practice focused on the unique needs and concerns of older adults.
Real Estate
Real Estate Law covers the many legal details involved in buying, selling, owning, or transferring property.
Meet
Your Attorney
Colt McKelvey
Attorney at Law
Attorney Colt McKelvey is a native of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and he earned his J.D. from the Widener Commonwealth Law School. Prior to law school, Colt attended Geneva College in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, where he graduated with a degree in Accounting. Colt worked as an accountant before attending law school.
MORE ABOUT COLT >
The Podcast
Legacy (Re)Builders
Conversations on faith, stewardship, and building a legacy that lasts.
October 28, 2026A Legacy of Raising Up the Next Generation with Mike Berkenpas | Ep. 7September 15, 2026Building Your Legacy in Your 20s with Hammer Shalawylo | Ep. 6
September 8, 2026What Is a Successful Life? with Colt McKelvey | Ep. 5Why Choose
McKelvey Elder Law & Estate Planning?
A Faith-Based Approach
Why should I choose McKelvey Elder Law & Estate Planning? What makes this firm different from other estate and family law attorneys in Pennsylvania? At McKelvey Elder Law & Estate Planning, our Christian faith is the foundation of everything we do. We believe that man was created to bring glory to God and live in relationship with Him, and we incorporate that belief into our practice every day. Guided by Proverbs 16:3, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established,” we take a genuine interest in each client, recognizing that every situation and set of goals is unique.
How will I be treated when I work with McKelvey Elder Law & Estate Planning? From your very first call through the conclusion of your case, we focus on building a true relationship with you. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options in easy-to-understand language (not legal jargon), and make ourselves accessible when you need us. Our clients often ask, “Will I be able to reach my attorney when I have questions?” and, “Can I get high-quality legal guidance at a fair cost?” The answer here is yes, because personal service, accessibility, and care for you and your family are at the heart of our work.
Focused on Personal Service
At our law offices, personal relationships mean everything. From the very first time you contact us to the conclusion of our work together, we’ll get to know you as a person. We’ll listen to your story, seek to understand your situation, and educate you on your legal options. Truly accessible customer service at a reasonable cost for you and your family—these things are essential.
Helping You
Protect What Matters Most
Planning for the future can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At McKelvey Elder Law & Estate Planning, we help individuals and families create a clear, legally sound roadmap that protects loved ones and honors your wishes.
From our office at 224 W. Pike Street, we serve Canonsburg and all of Washington County with estate planning, wills, trusts, estate administration, and elder law.
Is estate planning affordable? What documents do I need to prepare before meeting with an attorney? We are committed to making this process accessible and affordable, guiding you step by step. We’ll explain what paperwork you’ll need, walk you through your options, and answer your questions so you feel confident in every decision.
We also understand that talking about your estate is deeply personal. That’s why we take a faith-based and compassionate approach, serving not only families but also religious institutions with their unique legal needs. Our clients matter to us as they are a part of our community, and we believe in building relationships that last well beyond one legal matter.
When should I start estate planning? The answer is now. Don’t wait until a crisis strikes. If you live in Canonsburg, Johnstown, or the surrounding areas, call McKelvey Elder Law & Estate Planning today at 724-276-5066 (Canonsburg) or 814-262-8058 (Johnstown) for trusted guidance in estate planning and estate administration, real estate, elder law, and adoption.
Common Questions
Estate Planning FAQ
When should I start estate planning?
Now. Any adult who owns property, has children, or has opinions about their own medical care benefits from a plan. Marriage, buying a home, the birth of a child, and retirement are common reasons people finally sit down to do it, but a crisis is the worst time to start.
What happens if I die without a will in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania’s intestacy laws decide who inherits, in fixed shares set by statute rather than by your wishes. The court appoints an administrator to handle your estate, and the process usually takes longer and costs more than settling an estate with a valid will.
Do I need a trust, a power of attorney, or both?
They do different jobs. A power of attorney names someone to make financial or medical decisions for you while you are alive but unable to act. A trust holds and distributes property and can help your family avoid probate. Most plans include a will, a power of attorney, and a health care directive; whether you also need a trust depends on your assets and goals.
Is estate planning affordable?
Yes. We’re committed to fair, reasonable fees and to walking you through your options step by step, and a straightforward plan costs far less than the court fees and family disputes that follow when there is no plan at all.
What should I bring to my first meeting?
A list of what you own (bank and retirement accounts, real estate, life insurance, business interests), any existing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or deeds, and the names and contact details of the people you want to name as beneficiaries and agents. Bring your questions too.
Will I be able to reach my attorney when I have questions?
Yes. Personal service and accessibility are at the heart of our work. Our team is here to answer your questions and connect you with your attorney when you need guidance. Reach our Canonsburg office at 724-276-5066 or our Johnstown office at 814-262-8058.
Schedule a consultation or call 724-276-5066.
