April 2026

The Register's Message: John P. Sabatina, Esq.

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the first-ever edition of Report from the Register. As your public servant, I am committed to providing you with the news and information you can use to improve your life and build your family's legacy through generational wealth.

My office is here to inform you about the importance of having a will and help you through the probate process. We can help you clear the tangled title for your home so that you and your family can benefit from the many opportunities that home ownership provides.

In addition, if you want to get married or get a copy of your Philadelphia marriage license, my office is the place to come. The marriage record you receive from us is fully compliant with Real ID requirements.

Please remember, whatever circumstances life may bring your way, my office will be here to serve you with knowledge and compassion.

Sisters Constance Neal (second from left) and Afreda Wortham (second from right) were joined by City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier (center) and Register of Wills staff members Bob Stewart and Myasia Williams as the sisters obtained a new deed for their childhood home.

Constance Neal and Alfreda Wortham hold many fond memories of growing up in Philadelphia’s Cobbs Creek neighborhood.

Alfreda was just a toddler when the family moved into their tidy two-story rowhouse, while Constance was a few years older. Decades later, they still reflect on the closeness they felt with other local families – bonds that continue today although longtime neighbors are fewer in number.

They can’t imagine the home ever falling into another family’s hands.

Constance and Alfreda are two of more than 500 Philadelphians that our Title Clearance Unit has helped take legal ownership of their inherited home. Click the link below to read more about their story and learn how the TCU may be able to help your family.

Title Clearance Unit by the Numbers

Titles Cleared by Council District

ROW Podcast Helps Listeners Protect Their Family Legacies

"Thy Will Be Done" helps listeners take informed steps today that help ensure their family's future. New episodes debut each Saturday at 8 a.m. on Classix 107.9-FM in Philadelphia. Replays are available on demand via iHeart, Apple, and other major podcast platforms.

Click the image to watch an Autism Awareness Month message from Pastor Billy Thompson, director of interfaith affairs.

April is recognized across the USA and around the world as Autism Awareness Month. It is a time to dedicate ourselves to increasing our understanding of autism, expanding opportunities for people with autism, and driving meaningful change.

The Register of Wills office believes we should advocate strongly for expanding access to education, healthcare, employment, and community life for people on the autism spectrum and their families. We also believe that preparing a will is critical for ensuring the care of your dependents and planning your family's future.

Each week, our Public Engagement Team visits neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia to promote the importance of wills and inform the community about the services we provide. Visit phila.gov/wills to learn more and follow us on social media to see our upcoming events.

Register of Wills in the Community

Each day, the Public Engagement team from the Register of Wills office visits neighborhoods throughout the city to inform individuals and families about the importance of having a will and the often-challenging process of resolving a deceased loved one's estate. We are committed to helping you in your time of need and providing you information you can use today. If you would like us to visit your organization or participate in an event, contact us at rowonline@phila.gov.