Probate
Probate & Estate Administration Lawyers in Maryland
When a loved one passes away, the people left behind often have to settle their affairs while they are still grieving. Probate is the court-supervised process for doing that in Maryland: confirming the will, if there is one, appointing a personal representative, paying debts and taxes, and passing what remains to the people entitled to it.
We guide personal representatives and families through each step with patience and clear explanations, so you know what needs to happen, when, and why.
Guidance for Personal Representatives
In Maryland, the person who manages an estate is called the personal representative. It is an important role with real responsibilities and deadlines. We can help you:
- Understand your duties and the steps ahead
- Prepare and file the documents the Register of Wills requires
- Keep the process organized and on schedule
- Communicate clearly with heirs, beneficiaries and creditors
We work with families settling estates in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and across Maryland.
Our Probate Services
We help with the full estate administration process, or with the parts where you need support, including:
Opening the Estate
Filing with the Register of Wills in the county where the person lived and requesting the appointment of the personal representative.
Notices and Creditor Claims
Giving the notices Maryland law requires and reviewing claims from creditors within the time allowed.
Inventory and Valuation
Identifying the estate’s assets, arranging valuations, and preparing the required inventory.
Debts, Expenses and Taxes
Paying valid debts and estate expenses and making sure required tax filings are handled.
Accounts, Distribution and Closing
Preparing the accounts or reports the court requires, distributing assets to heirs and beneficiaries, and closing the estate.
Small Estates and Estates Without a Will
Using Maryland’s simpler process when an estate qualifies, and guiding families when a person died without a will.
When Someone You Love Passes Away
Our Approach to Probate
Every estate is different. Some are simple and can be settled with a shorter process; others involve real estate, businesses, or family members in different states. We start by listening, review what the person owned and how it was titled, and explain your options in plain language.
Not every asset goes through probate. Accounts with named beneficiaries, jointly owned property and assets held in a trust often pass outside of it. Learn more in our article on payable-on-death and transfer-on-death accounts.
If you only need help with part of the process, ask us about limited scope representation.
Talk to Us About an Estate
If you have been named personal representative, or a loved one has recently passed away, we are here to help you take the next step with confidence.
Call 240-502-1532 to schedule a consultation.
PROBATE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is probate?
Probate is the court-supervised process of settling a person’s estate after death. It confirms the will, if there is one, appoints a personal representative, and oversees paying debts and taxes and distributing the remaining assets.
What does a personal representative do?
The personal representative gathers and protects the estate’s assets, gives required notices, handles creditor claims, files the inventory and accounts or reports the court requires, pays valid debts and taxes, and distributes what remains to the people entitled to it.
Does every estate go through probate?
Not every asset. Property with a named beneficiary, jointly owned property and assets held in a trust often pass outside of probate. If the person owned assets in their name alone, an estate usually needs to be opened.
What happens if there is no will?
Maryland law decides who inherits, and the court appoints a personal representative in the order set by law. Read What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Maryland? for an overview.
How long does probate take?
It depends on the estate. Smaller estates that qualify for a simpler process can often be settled faster. Regular estates commonly take several months, and some take a year or more, especially when there are disputes, real estate to sell, or tax questions.
Can you help with only part of the process?
Yes. Through limited scope representation, we can help with specific tasks, such as preparing filings or answering questions, while you handle the rest.