After a loved one dies, there are a wide array of emotional, financial, and family decisions to be made.  When an individual dies in Maryland, in most cases, their assets first have to pass through probate before they can be transferred to beneficiaries. Probate is the legal process of validating a person’s will and making distribution pursuant to the terms of the will.   This free legal guide to Probate in Maryland helps answer common questions about the probate process.

In this guide, you’ll learn about the estate administration process and what you need to know about the probate process in Maryland, including:

• What is the probate process in Maryland?
• Do you need probate if you have a will?
• What are considered non-probate assets?
• What are the duties of a Personal Representative?
• What information do you need to gather to open an estate?
• How do you determine the value of an estate?
• How long does the probate process take?
• 15 common mistakes to avoid

Are you the Personal Representative or Executor of the Estate?

In Maryland, after a person passes, a Personal Representative must be appointed by the court.  The Personal Representative or Executor of Estate is often named as part of the will but if there is no will, the State will assign one.

If you are the Personal Representative of an estate, you must open the estate promptly, after death, according to Maryland Law.  This guide provides a list of duties you must perform, as the Executor of the Estate or Personal Representative.

Does Every Estate Have to Go Through Probate?

If the value of the estate is below $50,000, the estate may be able to avoid probate.  This guide explains the nuances of small estates and whether or not you may be able to bypass the probate process.  If the decedent has a trust established, prior to death, these assets may also be able to pass to the heirs outside of the probate process.   This guide explains this process in further detail.

Download the free legal guide to Probate in Maryland and learn what you need to know about opening an estate in Maryland’s probate courts.  If you have more questions, or wish to schedule a private consultation, we can help!  Schedule a call now!