About Citation and Preliminary Decree
This document comprises two distinct forms: a Citation ordering a respondent to show cause why a copy of a Last Will and Testament should not be admitted to probate, and a Preliminary Decree awarding the citation and directing service.
When you'd use it: Filed by a petitioner seeking to admit a copy of a decedent's will to probate when the original is unavailable; the citation notifies interested parties of the petition and the preliminary decree formalizes the court's direction for service.
Where to get the official form
The official version of Citation and Preliminary Decree is published as a PDF by the Pennsylvania courts. We checked this link and it resolved to a form on an official court or government website — always download the current version directly from the source rather than a third-party copy:
Download Citation and Preliminary Decree (PDF) →
Source: monroecountypa.gov
Link last checked: May 30, 2026
How to file Citation and Preliminary Decree in Pennsylvania
- Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Citation and Preliminary Decree when filed by a petitioner seeking to admit a copy of a decedent's will to probate when the original is unavailable; the citation notifies interested parties of the petition and the preliminary decree formalizes the court's direction for service. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — Pennsylvania probate forms are revised periodically, so verify the name and number against your court's current form list before you start.
- Step 2 — Complete every required fieldFill out Citation and Preliminary Decree carefully and review it for errors before filing. Probate cases can already take months — a small mistake on the form can set your timeline back further.
- Step 3 — Get it notarized or witnessed if requiredSome probate forms must be signed in front of a notary or witnesses. Check the instructions on the form itself, and arrange notarization before you file if it's required.
- Step 4 — File it with the correct courtSubmit Citation and Preliminary Decree to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the Pennsylvania county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).