Sinclair Prosser Gasior

Annapolis Estate Planning Attorneys

Call Now: (410) 573-4818

Home / Archives for Estate Administration

History of a Last Will and Testament

by

  The idea of a last will and testament is one that dates back to ancient Rome. The laws governing wills in the United States arose out of English common law. The concept was very clear to the Romans, and then to the English. A person has certain property rights in both land and personal possessions. With death being an inevitability of life, these cultures recognized the need to provide for a … [Read more...] about History of a Last Will and Testament

The Importance of Beneficiary Designations

by

  If you have an employer sponsored retirement plan, a life insurance policy, an annuity, or other retirement accounts, you probably specified a beneficiary to inherit the proceeds upon your death.  Beneficiaries can also be named on brokerage accounts, certificates of deposit, mutual fund accounts, and bank accounts.  These accounts become known as payable on death or transfer on death accounts.  … [Read more...] about The Importance of Beneficiary Designations

Handling Homeowner’s Insurance After Death

by

  Handling homeowner’s insurance is one of the many aspects that an executor must manage after the death of a loved one. And while you are grieving the loss, if there is a house, it is often one of the first places you visit and immediately start thinking…what are my responsibilities? While it may be apparent that the utilities must be paid and the property secured, one item that often arises … [Read more...] about Handling Homeowner’s Insurance After Death

Tangible Personal Property

by

   What is tangible personal property?  According to Wikipedia, tangible personal property refers to any type of property that can generally be moved, touched or felt.  These generally include items such as furniture, clothing, jewelry, art, writings, or household goods.   Pets and livestock are also considered tangible personal property.   While reward points, frequent flyer miles, season ticket … [Read more...] about Tangible Personal Property

New Laws in the Field of Estates and Trusts (Maryland)

by

The Maryland General Assembly had a number of bills come forth during its 2015 legislative term earlier this year. Although there were not sweeping changes to the field of Estates and Trusts as in years past, there were several notable laws that became effective on October 1, 2015. Some of the highlights are as follows: Maryland Trust Act – First, where a regular or modified probate proceeding … [Read more...] about New Laws in the Field of Estates and Trusts (Maryland)

How Does the Death Certificate Process Work?

by

  Death is never easy, but it is a certainty that we deal with at multiple times during our lives. When close family or friends die, you may find yourself scrambling for a death certificate. This record of finality provides evidence of an individual's passing and is an important document on many levels. But how do we obtain the certificate? How quickly can we get it? And who is entitled to apply? … [Read more...] about How Does the Death Certificate Process Work?