Estate Planning in Maryland | MD Legal Resources | FastCounsel

What documentation is needed to freeze or secure the decedent’s bank accounts in MD when co-heirs refuse to cooperate?

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer When a decedent’s bank accounts must be frozen or secured in Maryland and co-heirs refuse to cooperate, you need a court-authorized personal representative (sometimes called an administrator). Below are […]

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How to Determine if Other Creditors or Lienholders Could Claim Surplus Funds in Maryland

Detailed Answer When a foreclosure sale in Maryland produces surplus funds—money left after satisfying the foreclosing lender’s claim—other creditors and lienholders may assert rights to those proceeds. The court distributes sale proceeds according to lien priority under Maryland law, primarily governed by Real Property § 7-105 and Maryland Rule 2-631. 1. Understand the Distribution Process […]

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Can I Seek Reimbursement From the Estate for Paying the Funeral Bill in MD?

Detailed Answer Under Maryland law, individuals who pay for a decedent’s funeral can seek reimbursement from the decedent’s estate as an expense of administration. Maryland Code, Estates & Trusts § 7-402 grants funeral expenses priority status over most other claims. To file a claim, submit a written statement of charges and proof of payment (invoices, […]

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What options exist for establishing authority over an elderly heir’s personal and financial decisions under Maryland law?

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your situation. Detailed Answer 1. Durable Financial Power of Attorney Under Maryland law, a Durable Power of Attorney lets an appointed agent manage an individual’s finances if they lose capacity. The law governing powers of attorney […]

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What evidence or documentation supports a request to amend a police report in Maryland?

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance tailored to your situation, consult a licensed attorney. Detailed Answer In Maryland, you may request an amendment to a police report if you believe it contains inaccuracies or omissions. The procedure to correct public records, including police reports, falls […]

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How to Verify and Probate an Old Will Discovered Decades After Execution in Maryland

Detailed Answer When you discover an old will decades after its execution, you must verify its authenticity and seek probate promptly to honor the decedent’s intentions under Maryland law. 1. Confirm Authenticity and Proper Execution Maryland law requires a will to be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by at least two competent […]

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How do intestacy rules apply if no valid will is found in Maryland?

What Happens When No Valid Will Is Found in Maryland? Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney to discuss your specific situation. Detailed Answer When a person dies without a valid will—also known as dying intestate—Maryland law establishes a default distribution scheme under the […]

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Where Would Insurance or Government Program Payments Appear on a Maryland Statement of Account?

Detailed Answer Overview: A statement of account is a summary of charges, payments, adjustments, and the running balance for services rendered. In Maryland, health-care providers and other entities must itemize all payments received, including those from private insurers and government programs such as Medicare or Medicaid, in compliance with MD Health–General § 19-214(e). This ensures […]

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How to verify if the decedent had a valid will or other estate planning documents in Maryland

Detailed Answer When a loved one passes away, confirming the existence of a valid will or other estate planning documents in Maryland involves multiple steps. Start by gathering the decedent’s full legal name, date of birth, date of death and last known address. Search the Maryland Will Registry: Under Md. Code Ann., Est. & Trusts […]

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What Steps Are Needed to Include Real Property into an Estate in Maryland?

Detailed Answer Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation. 1. Determine How the Property Is Titled Begin by reviewing the deed and title documents at the county land records office. Property held in: Sole name: Passes through probate […]

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