Filing probate petitions in Circuit Court, asset inventory and appraisal coordination, creditor notification and claims evaluation, estate accounting and tax filings, and final asset distribution to beneficiaries.

Validity disputes involving testamentary capacity, undue influence, or improper execution. Contested trustee or executor actions, disputes over estate assets, and creditor claim challenges.

Advising on transferring assets outside of court, such as jointly held property, beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, and certain trusts to minimize probate exposure.

When someone dies without a valid will, Maryland’s intestacy statutes dictate asset distribution. We guide heirs through the probate process, ensuring proper notices and distributions.

Maryland allows summary probate procedures for estates under a certain value. We determine eligibility and use streamlined processes to reduce costs and delays.

Estates with real estate holdings, business interests, or out-of-state assets often require additional filings, such as ancillary probate in other jurisdictions. Our team coordinates multi-state processes and handles valuation complexities.

Beneficiaries or disinherited heirs sometimes allege that a later will supersedes a prior one or that the decedent lacked capacity when signing. We gather evidence to support or contest these claims.

Executors must adhere to strict deadlines for notifying and paying creditors. We evaluate claims’ validity, negotiate when possible, and coordinate with accountants to file estate and inheritance tax returns accurately.

During a confidential meeting, we review the decedent’s estate documents and discuss your role. We explain Maryland’s probate steps, required filings, and anticipated timelines.

We prepare and file the Application for Probate or Letters of Administration with the circuit court. Once approved, the court issues letters granting you authority to act on behalf of the estate.

We work with you to locate bank statements, titles, investment accounts, real property deeds, and personal assets. If necessary, we arrange formal appraisals for real estate, jewelry, or business interests.

After filing required notices in local newspapers, we evaluate creditor claims, determine legitimacy, and pay valid debts. Any disputed claims are addressed through negotiation or court intervention.

We compile a detailed accounting of all incoming and outgoing funds. We share this accounting with beneficiaries and the court, ensuring transparency.

If beneficiaries contest a will or creditors challenge distributions, we represent your interests. We file or defend against motions and advocate vigorously in court.

Once all debts, distributions, and administrative tasks are complete, we prepare final distribution plans. We obtain beneficiary receipts and file the final account with the court, thereby closing the estate.

Simple estates may complete probate in 6-9 months once debts are resolved and notice periods expire. Complex estates with disputes, multiple properties, or tax issues can take a year or longer.

Fees vary based on estate complexity, time spent, and whether the estate is contested. We offer flat-fee options for straightforward administrations and hourly rates for more complex matters.

Assets held in a properly funded revocable or irrevocable trust usually bypass probate. We review your loved one’s estate plan to determine which assets pass via trust and which require court involvement.

There are limited windows to contest a will, typically within six months of probate notice. If you believe a will is invalid, you must act quickly with evidence of undue influence, fraud, or lack of capacity.

Maryland’s intestacy laws dictate how assets are distributed – often favoring spouses and children. We guide heirs through the appointment of an administrator and follow statutory rules to ensure proper asset division.