Business Details
44 Years
experience
Trusted Legal Representation in Hanover, PA
Crabbs & Crabbs is a family-run law firm with deep roots in Hanover, Pennsylvania, serving York and Adams Counties since 1982. Our attorneys bring over 70 years of combined legal experience, specializing in estate planning, family law, adoption, guardianship, and probate litigation. We pride ourselves on delivering personalized, community-focused legal solutions while maintaining a legacy of service established by three generations of Crabbs attorneys. Our practice combines technical expertise with compassionate guidance, ensuring clients receive both legal proficiency and ethical representation.We prioritize client education, transparent communication, and proactive planning to address complex legal challenges effectively. Our team's extensive courtroom experience and commitment to continuing legal education position us as trusted advisors in both routine and high-stakes legal matters. Through active participation in local organizations and pro bono work, we reinforce our dedication to the communities we serve.
Services
Estate Planning
Family Law
Estate Administration
Adoption
Guardianship
Name Changes
Will Contests
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We offer 70+ years of combined legal experience across multiple practice areas
- Our family-led practice maintains three generations of Hanover community ties
- We provide personalized strategy sessions for complex legal planning
- Our attorneys hold leadership roles in local legal and community organizations
- We combine courtroom expertise with compassionate client education
Associations and certifications
- York County Bar Association
- Pennsylvania Bar Association
What people say
Knowledgeable and helpful
Comfortable and confident
Great advice
Capable professionals
Personalized support
Services
Estate Planning
Our estate planning services help clients protect assets and plan for future needs through customized wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. We guide clients in creating comprehensive plans that address potential incapacity and ensure smooth asset transfer. With experience preparing hundreds of estate documents, we provide practical solutions tailored to individual family dynamics and financial situations.
Family Law
We handle all aspects of family law including divorce proceedings, child custody arrangements, and spousal support negotiations. Our approach balances legal strategy with sensitivity to emotional challenges, focusing on achieving fair outcomes while minimizing conflict. Attorney Ruth Gunnell offers specialized strategy sessions to help clients understand their rights and options during transitional periods.
Estate Administration
Our probate services assist executors in navigating estate administration requirements, from asset liquidation to tax filings. We help clients fulfill legal obligations while managing complex processes like debt resolution and property transfers. With extensive experience in inheritance tax returns and fiduciary responsibilities, we reduce personal liability risks for estate representatives.
Adoption
We guide families through Pennsylvania's adoption process, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements while prioritizing the child's best interests. Our services cover home studies, court documentation, and finalization proceedings. We help create legally secure family relationships through both private and agency-assisted adoptions.
Guardianship
Our guardianship services help families establish legal authority to manage affairs for incapacitated individuals. We assist with court petitions, power of attorney creation, and ongoing compliance with reporting requirements. We focus on maintaining client dignity while implementing protective measures for vulnerable adults and minors.
People
John M. Crabbs
Attorney
Second-generation Hanover attorney with 40+ years of experience, specializing in estate planning and probate law. Active community leader serving on multiple local boards and organizations.
Muriel Anne Crabbs
Attorney
Family law specialist with extensive trial experience, recognized for pro bono contributions. Active in local tennis associations and community gardening initiatives.
Ruth Crabbs Gunnell
Attorney
Family law and estate planning attorney with prior experience in Pittsburgh courts. York County native specializing in client education and community-focused legal solutions.
Questions
What areas of law does Crabbs & Crabbs specialize in?
We specialize in estate planning, family law, probate administration, adoption, and guardianship matters.
How can I prepare for an estate planning consultation?
Bring financial documents, existing wills/trusts, and family situation details to help create your customized plan.
Do you offer initial legal consultations?
Yes, Attorney Gunnell offers a $100 one-hour strategy session for new family law clients.
How long does the adoption process take in Pennsylvania?
Timelines vary but typically require 6-12 months including home studies and court finalization.
What happens during probate administration?
Executors gather assets, pay debts/taxes, and distribute remaining assets according to wills or state laws.
