Pennsylvania § 3538 - Distributions involving persons born out of wedlock.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 3538 — Distributions involving persons born out of wedlock., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3538. Distributions involving persons born out of wedlock.
A personal representative may administer an estate on the assumption that no person born out of wedlock is entitled to share as a distributee unless the personal representative has knowledge or has received notice that such a person with possible distributee's rights exists. If a personal representative has distributed an estate, or part thereof, in good faith without knowledge of a person born out of wedlock who has rights as a distributee, said distribution actually made shall not impose liability on the personal representative. Except as herein otherwise provided, a person born out of wedlock shall have the same rights in an estate and shall be subject to such time limitations and to such procedures as are applied to any other heir or claimant against an estate.
(Nov. 26, 1978, P.L.1269, No.303, eff. imd.)
1978 Amendment. Act 303 added section 3538.
Cross References. Section 3538 is referred to in section 7799.2 of this title.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 3538
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 3538 cover?
Section 3538 ("Distributions involving persons born out of wedlock.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 3538?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 3538" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 3538 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.