Recent Blog Posts

12 Mistakes to Avoid During Probate

As the executor of an estate, also called the Personal Representative in Maryland (hereinafter referred to a PR), you have certain legal obligations and a fiduciary duty to take certain actions, or inactions, on behalf of the estate.  Otherwise, you may be held personally liable to the beneficiaries of the estate.  Below are 12 mistakes… Continued

If My Loved One Has a Will, Do I Have to go Through Probate?

According to Investopedia, “Probate is a legal process in which a will is reviewed to determine whether it is valid and authentic. Probate also refers to the general administering of a deceased person’s will or the estate of a deceased person without a will.” Before any assets can be distributed to beneficiaries, the executor of… Continued

A Comprehensive Guide to Wills, Trusts, and Probate

Every person, no matter your age, should have a will or trust to ensure that your assets and property are handed down as you see fit. Without a will or a trust, the state of Maryland may end up distributing your assets according to the law versus according to your wishes. Many people believe their… Continued

When is Maryland Probate Necessary?

The death of a loved one is always a tragedy.  In the aftermath of your loved one’s passing, it is expected that family members, significant others, and close friends will grieve, pay respects to the deceased, and share stories and memories. Unfortunately, there are legal aspects of a death that must be dealt with as… Continued

The Three Most Common Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make the biggest estate planning mistake by not, first, sitting down to make a will or estate plan. Others rely on templates or on-line wills to guide these important decisions that affect you and your family.  As Forbes Magazine notes, even celebrities such as Prince, Whitney Houston and Steve McNair did not update… Continued

Is Your Family Inheritance at Risk for Probate?

If a family member dies, it is important to have a will in place but a will may not protect the family’s inheritance from probate, taxes, or creditors such as Medicaid.  Here are some considerations for ensuring that your family will receive their fair share of assets and how to preserve their inheritance during the… Continued

2023 Legal Newsletter – Annual Planning Check-Up!

It’s Time for Your Annual Check-Up! This newsletter isn’t about scheduling a doctor’s visit, but this reminder may be just as important. We’ll provide the resources and materials you need to get this important check-up process started. We have included several checklists to help you conduct a quick review of how your family and circumstances… Continued

Creating an Estate Plan for Your Pets

What happens to your pet if something happens to you?  Naming a pet guardian has become a regular  part of the estate planning process for many.  In this article, we’ll show you how to create an estate plan or pet trust to take care of your furry friends in the event of your accident or… Continued

Estate Planning as Part of a Long Term Care Plan

More than 70% of seniors will require some type of long term care.  It may surprise you, or your family members, to realize that long term care is typically not covered by Medicare and often not considered as part of a basic estate plan.  With these costs averaging $10,000/mo in Maryland, it can quickly diminish… Continued

5 Steps to Basic Estate Planning

A basic estate plan provides essential legal documents for your family in the event of your incapacitation, sudden illness, or even death. It is crucial to have an estate plan in place to protect your family and your assets. Your estate includes everything you own. Therefore, it is a good idea to plan for what… Continued