Content Reviewed by:
Nasheia Smith •
January.27.2025
Vertified Content
Jan 27, 2025
| Read Time: 3 minutes
Handling a probate matter in Maryland can be complicated and stressful, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. Avoiding common pitfalls can save time, reduce frustration, save a lot of money, and minimize disputes among family members.
Here are five mistakes to steer clear of when handling a probate matter in Maryland:
(1) Failing to Understand Maryland’s Probate Process
Probate in Maryland involves submitting the deceased’s will (if one exists) to the Register of Wills in the county of the decedent, identifying assets, paying debts, and distributing the estate. Misunderstanding the required steps can lead to delays, missed deadlines, or legal complications.
To avoid this, you should consult the Register of Wills in the county where the decedent lived and familiarize yourself with Maryland-specific requirements. Or, you might want to consider hiring an attorney to do this. I know that sounds self serving, but trust us, probate is a complex process. It is not easy, and if you make a mistake it could be very, very costly.
(2) Neglecting Deadlines
To avoid this, you should create a timeline of all probate-related obligations and seek guidance to ensure timely compliance.
(3) Mismanaging Estate Assets
A common error is failing to properly identify, value, or safeguard the decedent’s assets. Mismanagement, such as selling assets prematurely or failing to keep accurate records, can lead to disputes or personal liability.
To avoid this, you should consider opening a separate estate account if necessary for managing funds and document all transactions related to the estate.
(4) Overlooking Tax Obligations
To avoid this, you should consider working with an accountant or tax attorney to ensure all required returns are filed and taxes are paid on time.
(5) Ignoring Potential Family Disputes
Family dynamics often become strained after the death of a loved one during the probate process. Ignoring potential family disputes over the will or estate administration can lead to costly litigation and emotional turmoil for family members.
To avoid this, communicate transparently with beneficiaries and consider mediation to resolve disagreements before they escalate.
Conclusion
Avoiding these mistakes can make the Maryland probate process smoother and less stressful. If you’re unsure about your responsibilities or face challenges, consulting an experienced probate attorney is crucial. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate complexities, meet deadlines, and protect your role as a personal representative.
Need help with probate in Maryland? Contact us at (301) 645-4100 for personalized legal guidance to protect your interests.