Death and Dirt - Pennsylvania Bar Association - Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section

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Latest Episodes:

• From the Courtroom to the Classroom: Dean Jerry Dickinson’s Journey | Season 1 Episode 13 Aug 17, 2025

In this episode of Death and Dirt, we sit down with Dean Jerry Dickinson, the youngest active dean of any U.S. law school, to trace his remarkable journey—from Pittsburgh native to constitutional law scholar, civil rights lawyer, and, as of January 15, 2025, Dean of Pitt Law School at age 38. Dean Dickinson discusses his early years in private practice at Reed Smith LLP, his deep roots in constitutional law and real property (takings) litigation, and his unplanned but meaningful transition into academia after clerking in the Third Circuit and founding a housing rights pro bono project.

Reflecting on his multifaceted career spanning private practice, academia, and leadership, Jerry Dickinson offers an insider’s view of life in legal education—balancing teaching, strategic planning, and community engagement. He shares insights into how real property and trusts and estates are evolving in law school curricula, especially as bar exam requirements and market dynamics shift. From the importance of mentorship to actionable steps bar associations can take, Jerry offers a thoughtful look at how to support the next generation of lawyers in these foundational, yet often overlooked, fields.

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Jennifer Galloway - Jenn attended Elizabethtown College, double majored in Criminal Justice and Political Science, always planning to attend law school. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Duquesne University School of Law, in Pittsburgh, and moved back to York County, where she currently resides and works. After just over a decade in private practice in estate planning, estate and trust administration and Orphans’ Court litigation, Jenn recently joined Counsel Trust Company as their Chief Fiduciary Officer. In this new role, she oversees the trust operations and administrations department back office and team of financial advisors, and was happy to trade the billable hour for a bit more structure.

Jay Hagerman - Jay earned a degree in American history at Gettysburg College. During that time, he worked in the White House Office of Correspondence in Washington, D.C. He attended Duquesne University School of Law, focusing his time learning about laws relating to wealth creation and preservation. He founded the elder law firm Abernethy & Hagerman, where he currently works. Jay resides in Hampton Township with his wife and family, which allows him to serve clients throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Fred Long - Fred Long is a partner at Long Brightbill, a law firm based in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. His practice is focused on estate planning, trust and estate administration, probate, and real estate transactions. Fred holds an Estate Planning Certificate from Temple University Beasley School of Law and earned a Juris Doctor from Widener University School of Law, graduating with honors. Additionally, he has a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a Minor in Economics from Susquehanna University. In addition to his professional work, Fred is actively involved in community organizations and enjoys spending time with his family and friends, engaging in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, camping, skiing, and exploring the Pennsylvania wilderness.

*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

One Big Beautiful Bill: What Professionals Need to Know | Season 1 Bonus Episode 1 Aug 07, 2025

In this Special Bonus Episode of Death and Dirt, we sit down with Christine M. (“Chrissy”) Green, a seasoned tax attorney and Member at Steptoe & Johnson PLLC, to break down the sweeping changes introduced by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA or OB3). Chrissy provides clear insights into how these new provisions impact estate planning and real estate professionals, from the historic increase in the federal estate tax exemption to the shifting focus toward income tax planning.

We dive into key topics including the SALT cap and trust planning for high-income taxpayers, the new rules for charitable deductions, the creation of MAGA accounts, and the impact on depreciation, cost segregation studies, and recapture issues for real estate investors. We also touch on the qualified business income deduction under §199A and the planning opportunities and pitfalls that arise from OB3. Whether you’re an estate planner, real estate professional, or advisor navigating the post‑OBBBA landscape, this episode offers practical insights and timely strategies to help you stay ahead.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Guardianship Reform, Protection and Dignity for Older Adults: Elder Justice in Pennsylvania | Season 1 Episode 12 Jul 17, 2025

In this episode of Death and Dirt, we’re joined by Anne N. John, Esq., to discuss her work with the Advisory Council on Elder Justice in the Courts and Pennsylvania’s broader efforts to strengthen protections for older adults. Anne, a long-serving member of the Council, shares insight into its mission, structure, and accomplishments—including the implementation of the Guardianship Tracking System (GTS) and the impact of two statewide Guardianship Summits. We explore how the Council—comprised of judges, state officials, attorneys, and advocates—has helped shape legislative and procedural reforms, such as Pennsylvania’s recently enacted Act 61 of 2024, which enhances due process and reinforces protections for individuals involved in guardianship proceedings.

The conversation also examines the intersection of elder law, ethics, and public education. Anne reflects on the importance of proactive planning and how tools like powers of attorney can often serve as effective alternatives to guardianship, helping preserve autonomy and dignity. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of the legal frameworks surrounding guardianship in Pennsylvania, the resources available through the Office of Elder Justice in the Courts, and the critical role attorneys play in protecting vulnerable elders from neglect, exploitation, and loss of access to justice.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Fiduciary Duties, Legal Deserts, and the Future of Mentorship | Season 1 Episode 11 Jun 17, 2025

In this episode of Death and Dirt, we’re joined by Alison T. Smith, a leading trusts and estates attorney and past Chair of the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section. Alison shares practical insights from her work advising fiduciaries on their roles, responsibilities, and how to set expectations with beneficiaries to reduce the risk of conflict and litigation. With extensive experience in fiduciary litigation and estate and trust administration, she offers a grounded perspective on managing risk and building transparency into the estate planning process.

We also explore Alison’s pioneering work to expand access to estate planning services across Pennsylvania. As Chair of the Section, she launched the Wills Clinics initiative—a model for delivering free estate planning services to low-income individuals in the Commonwealth. Her leadership in this area earned her the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Louis J. Goffman Award for pro bono service. Alison reflects on the professional and personal impact of this work, the urgent need to address “legal deserts,” and why mentorship is essential to building a sustainable future for the trusts and estates bar.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Managing Risk: Insuring Real Estate Owned by a Trust or Estate | Season 1 Episode 10 May 17, 2025

In this episode of Death and Dirt, we take a deep dive into the increasingly complex world of real estate ownership and insurance, particularly in the context of trusts and estates. Our guest, Kevin Thomas—Partner and Personal Risk Practice Leader at USI Insurance Services—brings over 20 years of experience advising high-net-worth individuals on property risk, with a focus on flood and fire coverage.

Together, we explore what happens when a property owner dies, how insurance policies are impacted by trusts and estate administration, and why extreme weather is reshaping the insurance landscape across the country. Whether you're an estate attorney, real estate professional, financial advisor, or property owner, understanding how property held in a trust or estate is insured—and what happens when things go wrong—is more relevant than ever. From immediate post-death steps to trustee responsibilities and insurability in high-risk states, this episode delivers real-world guidance for those navigating risk, coverage, and property ownership transitions.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Engaging the Bar: Justin Brown on the RPPT Section’s Role, Reach, and Value | Season 1 Episode 9 Apr 17, 2025

In this episode of Death and Dirt, we sit down with Justin Brown, current Chair of the Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section of the Pennsylvania Bar Association—and one of the driving forces behind this podcast. Justin shares how Death and Dirt came to life, reflecting on his podcasting journey and what inspired him to help create a new platform for meaningful conversation in our practice areas. We also dive into his path to becoming Section Chair, his vision for the RPPT Section, and the initiatives he’s championing to increase engagement, mentorship, and collaboration among members. Whether you’re a longtime member or new to the Section, this episode offers an inside look at the leadership shaping our future.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Jean Marfizo King: Modernizing the Office of the Register of Wills and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court | Season 1 Episode 8 Mar 21, 2025

In this episode of Death and Dirt, we are joined by Jean Marfizo King, the Register of Wills and Clerk of the Orphans’ Court for Dauphin County, who has been serving the county since 2011. Jean shares insights into the vital role these offices play in estate administration, guardianship proceedings, adoptions, and the issuance of marriage licenses, and how her leadership has modernized the way the office serves the public.

We dive into how Jean has successfully implemented technology solutions to improve probate efficiency, file management, and the issuance of marriage licenses, transforming traditional processes into streamlined, accessible services for the community.

Jean also discusses the broader impact of her work through her involvement in the Register of Wills and Clerks of the Orphans' Court Association of Pennsylvania, highlighting the common challenges faced by offices across the Commonwealth and the importance of collaboration and advocacy within this network.

Whether you're a legal professional, court official, or just curious about how public service and technology intersect in estate and family law, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Understanding Pennsylvania Realty Transfer Tax with Chris Jones | Season 1 Episode 7 Feb 17, 2025

In this episode, we’re joined by tax attorney Christopher A. Jones to break down the Pennsylvania Realty Transfer Tax. Chris covers the fundamentals before diving into the nuanced areas that often trip up real estate professionals, attorneys, and investors. Whether you’re structuring transactions, navigating exemptions, or simply looking to expand your tax knowledge, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in the real estate business.

Christopher A. Jones leads the Tax team of Ballard Spahr. He advises clients on a wide range of federal, state, and local tax matters. His practice includes advising clients regarding the tax consequences of complex transactions and associated planning opportunities. Additionally, Chris assists clients in federal, state, and local tax audits and controversies, and has represented clients in administrative appeals and in court. He provides clients tax advice in labor and other litigation matters, including withholding tax and information reporting issues.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Asset Protection & Medicaid Planning: The Right Kind of Trust - Samantha K. Wolfe | Season 1 Episode 6 Jan 17, 2025

In this episode of Death & Dirt, we sit down with elder law attorney Samantha K. Wolfe to discuss Medicaid planning—often thought of as planning for long-term care or nursing home costs. We dive into the benefits of Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPTs) (also known as income-only trusts or asset protection trusts) and how they can help safeguard assets while ensuring Medicaid eligibility in the future. If you’re looking to learn more about advanced planning strategies and how to protect the family legacy, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Samantha Wolfe is the founder and owner of The Law Offices of Samantha K. Wolfe, LLC in Waynesboro, PA, established in July 2020. Her areas of concentration are estate planning, asset protection planning, long-term care pre-planning, Medicaid planning (nursing home planning), special needs planning, business succession planning, federal estate and gift taxation planning, oil and gas lease planning, and estate administration and probate. Samantha has a “Superb” AVVO Rating for attorneys and was named a Super Lawyers Rising Start in 2022 and 2023.

~~~ Jennifer Galloway - Jenn attended Elizabethtown College, double majored in Criminal Justice and Political Science, always planning to attend law school. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Duquesne University School of Law, in Pittsburgh, and moved back to York County, where she currently resides and works. After just over a decade in private practice in estate planning, estate and trust administration and Orphans’ Court litigation, Jenn recently joined Counsel Trust Company as their Chief Fiduciary Officer. In this new role, she oversees the trust operations and administrations department back office and team of financial advisors, and was happy to trade the billable hour for a bit more structure.

*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Pros and Cons of Revocable Living Trusts - Jay Hagerman | Season 1 Episode 5 Dec 17, 2024

Our very special guest is none other than Jay Hagerman.

Listeners will recognize Jay as one of our esteemed co-hosts on the Death and Dirt Podcast. This episode was recorded LIVE at the Estate Law Institute, held at the Wanamaker Building in Philadelphia on December 4 and 5, 2024. Jay, one of the course presenters, generously took time out of his lunch hour (immediately before presenting) to share insights with our listeners about the benefits and drawbacks of Revocable Living Trusts.

The Estate Law Institute was a fantastic event that featured a wide variety of exceptional course presenters, with Jay among the highlights.

*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Special Episode: Preview of the 2024 Estate Law & Real Estate Institutes - Patti Spencer and Erik Hume | Season 1 Episode 4 Nov 15, 2024

Join us for a special episode where we dive into the highlights of the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s upcoming Estate Law Institute (December 4-5) and Real Estate Institute (December 6). Our guests, Patti Spencer and Erik Hume, are key organizers for these events and bring insider insights on this year’s must-attend courses for legal practitioners of all levels.

Patti Spencer, who helped plan the Estate Law Institute, shares an overview of courses ranging from the latest developments in estate law to foundational refreshers and advanced topics for seasoned attorneys. Erik Hume, who contributed to planning the Real Estate Institute, gives us a sneak peek into sessions covering essential updates, practical refreshers, and in-depth analyses of real estate law.

In addition to the educational offerings, Patti and Erik discuss the social aspects of the Institutes, including opportunities to network with fellow practitioners and connect with colleagues from across the state.

Whether you’re a new lawyer looking to build your knowledge or a seasoned attorney aiming to stay current, this episode will give you a preview of what’s in store at this year’s Institutes.

Tune in to get a head start on planning your schedule and find out why these events are some of the most anticipated gatherings in Pennsylvania’s legal community.

Patti Spencer: https://www.spencerlawfirm.com/our-firm/patti-s-spencer-esq/

Erik Hume: https://www.saxtonstump.com/our-people/erik-hume/

Estate Law Institute (Day 1): https://www.pbi.org/product/estate-law-institute-2024-day-one-philadelphia/

Estate Law Institute (Day 2):

https://www.pbi.org/product/estate-law-institute-2024-day-two-philadelphia-2/

Real Estate Institute:

https://www.pbi.org/product/real-estate-institute-2024-philadelphia-2/

*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

A Day in the Life of a Real Estate Attorney - Michael A. Burns | Season 1 Episode 3 Nov 05, 2024

In this episode, we sit down with the Honorable Michael A. Burns, a practicing real estate attorney and Magisterial District Judge. Judge Burns offers insights into the day-to-day life of a real estate attorney in Pennsylvania, sharing the diverse aspects of his practice. He also delves into how the constantly evolving real estate market demands that practitioners stay ahead of the curve. Join us for a deep dive into the challenges and rewards of working in real estate law and the unique perspective Judge Burns brings from both sides of the bench.

Michael A. Burns is the Immediate Past Chair for the Pennsylvania Bar Association Real Property/Probate Trust Section and Immediate Past President of the Pennsylvania District Judge’s Association in District 11. He is also a former President of the Delaware County District Judge Association serving the board in 2021.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

A Day in the Life of a Trusts and Estates Attorney - Elaine Yandrisevits | Season 1 Episode 2 Nov 03, 2024

In this episode, we’re joined by Elaine Yandrisevits, a Trusts and Estates attorney based in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Elaine shares her journey into the world of estate planning and provides a behind-the-scenes look at her daily practice. She also discusses how she has navigated the challenges of growing in her field and how her active involvement in continuing legal education has helped deepen her knowledge and expertise, and to gain confidence in her field. Tune in for a candid conversation on what it’s like to be a trusts and estates attorney in Pennsylvania.

Elaine earned her J.D. from the Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law, and LL.M. in Taxation and an Estate Planning Certificate from the Graduate Tax Program at Villanova University School of Law. She is active in the Bucks County Bar Association, where she is a member of the Board of Directors and served as the Chair of the Bench Bar Conference Committee, Orphans’ Court Section, and Young Lawyers’ Division. Elaine is the Zone 9 Co-Chair for the Young Lawyers’ Division of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and was a member of the Bar Leadership Institute Class of 2022-2023. Elaine is also a member of the Bucks County Estate Planning Council.

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*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo⁠

Introducing the Death and Dirt Podcast - Jay Hagerman, Jennifer Galloway, Fred Long | Season 1 Episode 1 Oct 31, 2024

In the debut episode of the Death and Dirt Podcast, we dive into the heart of what this journey is all about. Join us as we introduce the core concepts driving this podcast, setting the stage for the discussions to come. You'll meet your co-hosts, learn about our backgrounds, and hear our goals and aspirations as we begin this adventure together.

About the hosts:

*audio editing & music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Nick DeMatteo

Death and Dirt TRAILER Oct 29, 2024

Jenn Galloway, Jay Hagerman and Fred Long - hosts of Death and Dirt - introduce themselves, and tell us what the podcast is about. Death and Dirt is presented by the Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section of the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

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