Estate Administration is often seen as a straightforward process: after someone passes away, the personal representative gathers assets, pays off debts, and distributes what’s left to the beneficiaries. However, many estates take far longer to settle than anticipated, leaving everyone involved frustrated. If you’re in charge of administering an estate, it’s important to understand why delays … [Read more...] about When an Estate Administration Takes Longer than Expected
The Policy of Handling Homeowner’s Insurance After Death
There are 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 is how to handle the insurance. … [Read more...] about The Policy of Handling Homeowner’s Insurance After Death
Four Common Estate Planning Myths
As an estate planning law firm with nearly thirty years of experience, we see several common excuses for why clients delay getting an estate plan in place. Add changing laws at the state & federal level and the need to address your own mortality, it’s clear to see why many people delay in putting an estate plan in place. Here are four common myths debunked about estate planning, to help you … [Read more...] about Four Common Estate Planning Myths
Governor Wes Moore’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Proposal: Significant Changes to Maryland Taxes
Governor Wes Moore’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal has significant changes to Maryland Taxes. Here are the changes and the potential implications. Elimination of Inheritance Tax Maryland imposes a 10% inheritance tax upon death when assets are transferred to certain beneficiaries like nieces, nephews, friends, and other more distant relatives. Governor Moore’s proposal would be to eliminate … [Read more...] about Governor Wes Moore’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Proposal: Significant Changes to Maryland Taxes
Should I Put My Children on the Deed to My House?
Many people think that putting their child’s name on the deed to their home is an easy fix to avoid probate. Sure, it will keep the home out of probate, but it opens up a number of other issues. These are some of the biggest concerns: 1. Issues with Creditors When you add your child to the deed, they will have immediate ownership rights in the property. This means that your child’s … [Read more...] about Should I Put My Children on the Deed to My House?
Intestate Estates in Maryland: What Happens When You Don’t Have an Estate Plan?
So, you've been putting off creating an estate plan. No judgement here, life gets busy! But here's the thing: if you die without one, you've just handed the State of Maryland a game of "Who Wants to Be Your Heir?" You're not going to be the one picking. Instead, Maryland's laws of intestacy will decide who gets your stuff. Here are a few things to know if you die intestate (without an estate … [Read more...] about Intestate Estates in Maryland: What Happens When You Don’t Have an Estate Plan?
What is a Pour-Over Will and Why Should I Have One?
When you sit down with an attorney to discuss your estate, it is likely different options will be presented, including wills and trusts. As revocable trusts are a popular vehicle to avoid probate, minimize taxes and control assets for your family, an important document to be drafted along with it is referred to as the Pour-Over Will. You May be Thinking... Why do I Need a Will if I Opted … [Read more...] about What is a Pour-Over Will and Why Should I Have One?
Estate Planning Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide to Get Your Affairs in Order
Estate planning is the process of designating who will receive your assets in the event of your death. A well-constructed estate plan will ensure your wishes are captured at your death but also during times of incapacity. An individual's estate plan can articulate not only where they want their assets to go upon their death but can incorporate values and beliefs. It's not just about who inherits … [Read more...] about Estate Planning Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide to Get Your Affairs in Order
Reality TV Marriages and the Power of a Prenuptial Agreement
Many reality television shows these days focus on marriage. We have the Bachelor franchise, Married at First Sight, and now Love is Blind. The goal in each of these shows is for the contestants to get married. And while the fairytale ending might seem like the ultimate fantasy, there are some practical considerations that should bring you back down to earth. Marriage is a legal contract … [Read more...] about Reality TV Marriages and the Power of a Prenuptial Agreement
Five Important Things to Consider When Choosing an Estate Planning Attorney
Estate planning is an interesting area of the law because everyone needs their own plan in place. It can be incredibly rewarding for attorneys as well, and many are drawn to the practice area because it is a way to have a great impact on family's wealth and legacies. Because of this, the market for attorneys is full of highly educated, highly competent estate attorneys, so how does a potential … [Read more...] about Five Important Things to Consider When Choosing an Estate Planning Attorney
