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Which Assets Should You Leave Out of Your Revocable Trust in Maryland?

A revocable living trust is a powerful way to simplify the probate process for your surviving loved ones. If properly structured, a trust can enable your property to bypass probate in Maryland, which can save time and reduce costs.   Most revocable trusts include a variety of assets, including real estate or investment properties, bank […]

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What is the Spouse’s Elective Share in Maryland Probate?

In Maryland probate, the spouse elective share provides financial protection for a surviving spouse, even if they are left out of a last will and testament. The elective share allows a surviving spouse to receive a fixed portion of the deceased spouse’s estate.   This percentage is determined by whether the decedent is survived by […]

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New Maryland Law Elevates Priority for Unpaid Child Support in Probate

A new law (House Bill 261) was recently passed that will make child support payments a higher priority in the hierarchy of claims against an estate. The new law goes into effect in October of 2025. Previously, child support was placed under “All Other Claims” at the bottom of the list. The new law moves […]

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My Parent Inherited a Home in Maryland but Never Changed the Deed—What Now?

This is a common situation. Your mother inherits a house but never updates the property deed. And then she passes away. What now? Even though your mother may not have updated the deed, by Maryland law she is still considered the property owner.   If your mother had a will, the house would pass to […]

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Common Title Issues That Can Affect Your Property in Maryland

Whether buying or inheriting a property, you might assume that once the deed is signed, notarized, and recorded, you’re all set. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Title issues often go unnoticed and can create costly and annoying legal complications. Here are a few of the more common title issues that we have encountered: […]

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Trustee Resignation Made Easier by The Maryland Trust Act

Under the Maryland Trust Act, which governs the administration of trusts in the state of Maryland, trustees will soon find it easier to resign from their duties. Beginning October 1, 2025, a Trustee may resign simply by submitting a written 30-day notice, informing beneficiaries, the creator of the trust (if still living), and any co-trustees. […]

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How Should a Personal Representative Handle Homeowner’s Insurance?

The Personal Representative has a fiduciary obligation to protect all assets of the decedent’s estate. If the decedent owned a property, this includes ensuring that the utilities and taxes are paid, and that the home is adequately secured among other obligations. What is often overlooked, however, is homeowner’s insurance.   If you are the Personal […]

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Things to Consider Before Modifying a Life Estate Deed in Maryland

Life estate deeds are commonly used for estate planning purposes and to avoid probate. If you would like to learn more about life estate deeds, please read our blog post “What Are Life Estate Deeds in Maryland?”   If you are considering modifying your life estate deed, there are some things you should keep in […]

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How Much is a Personal Representative Compensated in Maryland Probate?

If you have taken on the responsibility of being the Personal Representative of an estate in Maryland, you may be wondering if—and how much—you will be compensated for your time and effort.   The role of Personal Representative involves a variety of tasks and responsibilities, which we have written about in our post “What is […]

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Charles County Recordation Tax Set to Increase in July of 2025

Charles County’s commissioners recently voted to increase the recordation tax from $5 to $7 per $500. This tax increase, which goes into effect on July 25, 2025, applies only to properties being sold. The vote to amend Section 281-1 of the Charles County Code took place on June 10, 2025.     Fortunately, the same […]

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