How Can a Client Obtain Appointment as Administrator When a Higher-Priority Heir Exists in Maryland?
Detailed Answer In Maryland, when a decedent dies intestate (without a valid will), the Orphans’ Court appoints a personal representative—called an “administrator”—to settle the estate. Maryland law sets a statutory order of priority for appointing administrators. You can only serve as administrator if no one of higher preference is willing, able, or qualified to serve. […]
Read article →What is the process and timeline for applying to become the personal representative of an estate in Maryland?
Disclaimer This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer 1. Identify the Qualified Petitioner Under Maryland law, a personal representative (often called an executor if named in a will or administrator if appointed by the court) handles […]
Read article →How is a guardian or guardian ad litem appointed to manage a minor’s interest in an estate under Maryland law?
Appointment of a Guardian or Guardian Ad Litem for a Minor’s Estate Interest in Maryland Detailed Answer To protect a minor’s inheritance, Maryland law allows the Orphans’ Court to appoint a guardian of the property or a guardian ad litem. A guardian of the property manages the minor’s assets until they reach adulthood. A guardian […]
Read article →What steps protect a minor’s inheritance in Maryland when the decedent did not leave a will?
Protecting a Minor’s Inheritance When No Will in Maryland Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Detailed Answer When a person dies without a will (intestate) in Maryland and leaves behind a minor heir, the law provides several […]
Read article →What mechanisms ensure the administrator complies with estate duties and bond requirements in Maryland?
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance. Detailed Answer Court-Ordered Bond Requirements Under Maryland law, the court generally requires a personal representative (administrator or executor) to post a bond before receiving Letters of Administration or Letters Testamentary. The court sets the bond […]
Read article →Can a Personal Representative Seek a Commission on Estate Assets and Sale Proceeds in Maryland?
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney to discuss your specific situation. Detailed Answer Under Maryland law, a personal representative (formerly known as an executor or administrator) may claim a statutory commission for services performed in administering an estate. The commission schedule appears in Maryland Code, Estates […]
Read article →What Steps Are Required to Locate, Inventory, and Distribute Estate Assets and Settle Debts in Maryland?
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Maryland probate procedures. It does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer 1. Open the Estate in Orphans’ Court To start, file a petition with the local Orphans’ Court. Under Maryland Code, Estates & Trusts § 7-101, you ask the court to appoint a personal representative (executor or administrator). […]
Read article →Which Court or County Office Handles Estate Administration and Unclaimed Property Claims in Maryland?
Disclaimer This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer Estate Administration in Maryland In Maryland, probate and estate administration matters fall under the Orphans’ Court division of the Circuit Court in the county where the deceased resided at […]
Read article →What Steps Are Required to Open an Estate Proceeding When No Probate Case Exists in Maryland?
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer When a person dies in Maryland with assets in their sole name, you must initiate an estate proceeding even if no probate case exists. Follow these steps to open a new estate proceeding: Step 1: Determine If Administration Is Required […]
Read article →What documentation is required to apply for letters of administration in Maryland?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an attorney for advice specific to your situation. Detailed Answer In Maryland, letters of administration grant someone authority to manage and distribute the estate of a person who died without a valid will (intestate). To obtain these letters, you must file […]
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