A lot of adult children whose parents just died without a will wonder if they have to go through the probate process if the only major asset is a house. The answer to this question really depends on how the property was titled.
Many children find themselves completely overwhelmed after the death of their parents, because they soon realize their parents didn't have a Will. During an already difficult period, adding in probate is yet another thing to do in addition to their already busy lives.
There's a lot of debate about whether same-sex marriage will be allowed in the future, and how to protect those couples that will be impacted by it. While this is unlikely to occur either in the United States or in Pennsylvania, it is a fear. Estate planning protects your spouse.