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Do I Need to Update My Maryland Property Deed if My Name Has Changed?

The simple answer is no. Maryland law does not require a new deed to reflect your name change. However, you can avoid complications by doing so, especially if you decide to sell or refinance your property. Name consistency across all legal documents can make life easier for you.   If you decide to change your […]

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What Is the Interested Persons Form for a Maryland Probate Estate?

Maryland law defines an “interested person” as anyone listed in a will, an immediate family member, and a legatee or a trust now receiving interest from assets resulting from the person’s passing.   The Interested Persons form must be filed along with the petition and should include any person or entity with a potential interest […]

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What Should I Do with My Estate Plan If One of My Children Provides Most of the Caregiving?

In many instances, most of the caregiving may fall to one of your children. This could be due to several circumstances, most often proximity. If you are in this situation, you may have asked yourself how to fairly acknowledge the caregiving load one child has carried over another.   Here are some strategies to consider […]

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How Should I Prepare for a Meeting with a Maryland Probate Attorney?

Before meeting with a Maryland probate attorney, it is important to be as prepared as possible. This post will provide an overview of what you will need and what questions to ask.   Begin by thinking carefully about your goals and concerns. If you are uncertain about any aspect of the probate process, come prepared […]

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Do Life Insurance and Retirement Benefits Need to Go Through Probate in Maryland?

Before meeting with a Maryland probate attorney, it is important to be as prepared as possible. This post will provide an overview of what you will need and what questions to ask.   Begin by thinking carefully about your goals and concerns. If you are uncertain about any aspect of the probate process, come prepared […]

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What Is Ancillary Probate in Maryland?

When someone passes away in Maryland, their estate typically goes through probate, but if the deceased person owned real estate or other assets in another state, ancillary probate may be required to transfer ownership of those assets to their heirs or legatees.   The primary probate process occurs in the state where the deceased person […]

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First-Time Home Buyer Transfer Tax in Howard County for Public Servants

In Howard County, Maryland, the local government recognizes the invaluable contributions of law enforcement officers; fire and rescue services members; and certificated professional teachers to the community. In appreciation of their dedicated service, the county has implemented favorable transfer tax provisions, offering exemptions and rate reductions for eligible individuals.   To qualify for the transfer […]

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Should I Obtain Title Insurance for my Property in Howard County, Maryland?

If you are considering transferring the title to your property in Howard County, Maryland, you may be asking whether you should obtain title insurance. Understanding the role and benefits of title insurance can help you make this decision.   Title insurance is designed as a safeguard against potential issues that may arise with your property’s […]

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The Hierarchy of Payments From an Estate in Maryland

During the process of administering an estate, you might discover that the assets in the estate are not sufficient to pay all claims made against the estate. If you find yourself in this situation as a Personal Representative, Maryland law specifies a hierarchy of payments. The hierarchy is as follows:   1. Fees due to […]

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Inheritance Rights for Domestic Partners Expanded Under New Maryland Law

One of the significant changes introduced by Maryland Senate Bill 792 relates to the treatment of estate taxes for individuals in domestic partnerships. In the past, if a partner did not possess a will at the time of their death, their property would be subject to Maryland’s intestate laws. This new legislation, however, aims to […]

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