Consequences of Not Probating a Will
If you've been named executor of someone's estate, unless you resign, following the decedent's death, you must submit the will to the court and initiate the probate process. But what happens if you don't?
If the deceased possessed property or incurred debts, the consequences of failing to probate a will can...
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Can a trustee be removed from a trust?
Can a trustee be removed from a trust?
Trusts are one of the most critical and versatile estate planning tools. Not only do trusts enable individuals to pass on their property and financial accounts without having to go through probate, but they also can provide enhanced disability planning during their lifetime, protect assets...
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6 Common Problems with Deeds on Death, Transfer on Death Deeds, and Beneficiary Deeds
6 Common Problems with Deeds on Death, Transfer on Death Deeds, and Beneficiary Deeds
If you wish to transfer your real estate to beneficiaries at your time of death without the costly probate process or using a living trust, you should consider a deed on death, transfer on death deeds, or beneficiary deeds.
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Estate Planning Goals & Objectives for 2022
The start of a new year brings about renewed energy towards accomplishing goals, but how often do we tend to fizzle out only after a few short months? If one of your goals for 2022 is to finalize your estate planning needs you will want to set some realistic expectations and guidelines...
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The Ins and Outs of the Maryland Inheritance Tax.
Maryland is one of only six states that levies an inheritance tax. (Maryland also imposes an estate tax, making it the only state to levy both.)
The good news is that close relatives are typically exempt from Maryland inheritance tax, and with proper planning, an experienced Maryland estate planning attorney may be able to help...
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How to Avoid Probate in Maryland.
There are several reasons why you might want your estate to avoid Maryland probate after you pass away. The probate process can be frustrating, time-consuming, and...
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Contesting a Will in Maryland.
Wills are contested more often than you might imagine. This is why it is so important to have an experienced Maryland estate planning attorney design and implement your will and other crucial legal documents.
Let’s begin with a quick definition. When a person “contests” a will, he or she is asking the court to decide...
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What are Revocable Living Trusts in Maryland?
Revocable living trusts are estate planning documents that can give the grantor (the person for whom the trust is created) complete control over his or her assets during life, in the event of in capacity, and after death.
Who Inherits Property In Maryland If There’s No Will?
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 succession. In this situation, “who gets what” follows strict guidelines established by the state of Maryland. Broadly speaking, these guidelines mandate that assets be...
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6 Ways to Minimize or Eliminate Estate Taxes.
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 amounts will be taxed at a graduated rate between 18 and 40 percent depending on the size of the estate. In Maryland, the 2021...
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