Who Inherits Property In Maryland If There’s No Will?

Clifford M. Cohen October 8, 2021 No Comments

When a person passes away without a will (or, in the case of certain assets, without designated beneficiaries), the decedent’s assets are distributed according to what is known as intestate…

Understanding the Portability of the Estate Tax Exemption

6 Ways to Minimize or Eliminate Estate Taxes.

Clifford M. Cohen October 7, 2021 No Comments

Let’s begin with a look at the numbers. The current federal estate tax exemption is $11.7 million for individuals and $23.4 for couples filing jointly. Assets in excess of these…

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The Role of an Executor in Maryland

Clifford M. Cohen September 15, 2021 No Comments

In Maryland, an executor (also known as a personal representative) plays a crucial role when it is time to settle an estate and distribute assets after a loved one has…

The Consequences of Not Probating a Will

Clifford M. Cohen August 25, 2021 No Comments

Let’s start with some context. First, as we have noted in previous blog posts, probate is a court-supervised process whereby an individual’s debts are paid and the remaining assets are…

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What is a Demand Letter?

Clifford M. Cohen August 10, 2021 No Comments

As the name implies, a demand letter “demands” that the letter’s recipient take specific actions to resolve a conflict. Demand letters are frequently used by businesses to demand restitution or…

A senior couple using a laptop and going over paperwork in the garden at home. Mature man and woman discussing finance while browsing online with a computer

Maryland Estate Tax: What You Need to Know

Clifford M. Cohen July 21, 2021 No Comments

Let’s start with the good news. The vast majority of us are not subject to federal estate taxes because the current threshold is $11.7 million for individuals and $23.4 for…

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What Are the Differences Between a Void Contract and a Voidable Contract?

Clifford M. Cohen July 7, 2021 No Comments

A contract is an agreement between private parties that creates mutual legal obligations. There are four fundamental elements necessary to make a contract legally enforceable: mutual assent, adequate consideration, capacity,…

With Home Prices Rising Rapidly, You May Find It Easy to Get Rid of Your Mortgage Insurance

Clifford M. Cohen June 23, 2021 No Comments

Home prices are skyrocketing nationwide thanks to low mortgage interest rates, strong demand, and limited supply. According to the National Association of Realtors, 88 percent of metropolitan areas in the…

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Should Your Estate Plan Include a Letter of Intent?

Clifford M. Cohen June 9, 2021 No Comments

A Letter of Intent, also called a Letter of Instruction, is a document outlining your wishes on a wide range of matters. Unlike a Last Will and Testament, which is…

Family Considerations Planning in Washington DC. Couple going over home finances with a newborn

Trusts Aren’t Just for Rich People

Clifford M. Cohen May 18, 2021 No Comments

One of the more common misconceptions about trusts is that they are only for celebrities and the wealthiest of families. Not so. Trusts can accomplish a wide range of planning…

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