Estate Planning in Maryland | MD Legal Resources | FastCounsel

What steps are needed to seek guardianship or conservatorship for an incapacitated relative in Maryland?

Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a qualified attorney. Detailed Answer If a family member loses the capacity to manage their personal or financial affairs, you may seek a guardianship (for personal decisions) or conservatorship (for financial decisions) in Maryland under the Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship, and Other Protective […]

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How to Locate and Verify Original Wills and Codicils Before Opening Probate in Maryland

Detailed Answer Under Maryland law, locating and verifying original wills and codicils before opening probate ensures that the decedent’s final wishes are honored and that the probate process proceeds smoothly. Below is a step-by-step overview of how to find and confirm valid testamentary documents. 1. Locating Original Wills and Codicils Personal Records: Search the decedent’s […]

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What Options Exist for Selling or Transferring Real Property When an Heir Is a Minor Child and Cannot Consent in Maryland

Detailed Answer When an heir to Maryland real estate is a minor, the child cannot legally sign agreements or deeds. Maryland law provides several paths to sell or transfer the property for the child’s benefit while safeguarding their rights. 1. Petition for a Guardianship of the Minor’s Property Under Md. Code Ann., Estates & Trusts […]

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How Does Maryland’s Slayer Statute Affect an Heir’s Right to Inherit?

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney. What Is Maryland’s Slayer Statute? Under Maryland law, a person who unlawfully and intentionally kills a decedent cannot inherit from that decedent’s estate. The legal provisions appear in Md. Code Ann., Estates & Trusts § 3-903 and § 3-904. […]

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What Documents Are Needed to Complete a Small Estate Affidavit for Estate Assets in MD?

Detailed Answer In Maryland, you can use a small estate affidavit when a decedent’s personal property does not exceed $50,000 and real property does not exceed $100,000. Maryland Estates & Trusts §7-601 through §7-609 authorizes this simplified transfer. You must gather the following documents before submitting your affidavit to the Register of Wills or the […]

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What information and documentation are required to verify all individuals with an interest in real property in MD?

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney to address your specific situation. Detailed Answer When a lender, title company or closing agent in Maryland verifies all individuals or entities with an interest in real property, they must confirm each party’s identity, legal status and the nature […]

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What Steps Should a Client Take to Establish Direct Communication with a Bodily Injury Claims Adjuster in Maryland?

Disclaimer: This FAQ is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified Maryland attorney before making decisions. Detailed Answer Establishing direct communication with the claims adjuster reduces delays and promotes transparency. Follow these steps: Locate Your Policy and Claim Number. Gather your insurance policy, declarations page, and any claim reference number. […]

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What steps are required to file a petition claiming surplus funds from a foreclosure proceeding in Maryland?

Detailed Answer After a Maryland foreclosure sale, any funds remaining above the mortgage payoff, court costs and liens become surplus. The court holds these funds until a proper claim is made. To recover surplus proceeds, follow the steps below under Maryland law. Verify eligibility and timing. Under Md. Code, Real Property §7-308(d) (link), you must […]

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Do I get any ownership interest in the real property if I am paying the mortgage? (MD)

Understanding Mortgage Payments and Property Ownership in Maryland Detailed Answer Paying a mortgage does not automatically give you legal title to the property in Maryland. The person whose name appears on the deed holds legal ownership. A mortgage secures the loan; it does not transfer ownership. Legal Title vs. Equitable Interest Maryland law recognizes two […]

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What steps are needed to access and review information in a Maryland unclaimed property account

How to Access and Review Maryland Unclaimed Property Online Detailed Answer Under Maryland law, the Comptroller’s Unclaimed Property Program holds records of abandoned property and permits claimants to access and review their information online. The process follows the requirements in Md. Code Ann., State Government Article § 11-501 and § 11-303. Gather Your Information Collect […]

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