Columbia, MD Probate Lawyers
Columbia, MD Probate Lawyers
If you are researching probate law because of the recent loss of a loved one, our hearts go out to you. It’s never easy to lose someone close to you, and the prospect of facing complex legal procedures in the wake of your loss is hardly an appealing one. We understand that you need time and space to grieve, which is why our Columbia probate lawyers are here to offer our services.
At Z Family Law, we understand that law should always be practiced with compassion. Let our experienced and qualified team handle all of the paperwork and legalities so you have time to grieve and celebrate the memory of your loved one. Though probate is not an easy process, we can make it much simpler by taking the burden off of your shoulders.
Reach out for a free case evaluation and learn more about how we can help you through this turbulent period and honor your loved one’s legacy.
Understanding Probate In Maryland
Probate is the legal process following the death of a person (the decedent) by which their will is validated by the court and their estate distributed accordingly. If the decedent did not leave behind a will (meaning that they died intestate), their estate still needs to go through probate, but it will be distributed according to a legal formula, typically to their closest living relative. If there is not a will with a named executor, one is appointed by the court to take care of duties relating to probate, which include:
- Opening probate
- Contacting debtors and beneficiaries
- Valuing assets
- Filling out paperwork
- Filing petitions
- Contacting creditors
- Paying off debts
- Paying taxes
- Upkeep of the estate
- Distributing assets
There are ways to bypass probate, including securing assets in trusts, but that must be done while the owner of the assets is still alive. A will alone is not enough to bypass probate.
There are also different types of probate depending on the size of the estate that is being probated. Be sure to speak with our Columbia probate lawyers about how your loved one’s estate should be probated and if there is anything that can be done to make the process simpler.
How Our Columbia Probate Lawyers Can Help
Z Family Law can help make your probate experience less stressful, and we can help you minimize risk, in-fighting between families, and even the possibility of litigation. If you are the executor of the estate, there is a lot of responsibility on your shoulders. As an executor, any mistake can be costly. If you make an error–and there are many possible errors you can make–you risk:
- Costing the estate more money
- Costing yourself money
- Adding more time to the probate process
- Adding more paperwork to the process
- Causing strife among the beneficiaries
- Opening yourself up to litigation
- Having yourself removed as executor
If you want to make sure the process goes smoothly and discourage any disagreement or claims of unfairness among family members, experienced legal help is the way to go! Z Family Law can guide you with experience and compassion from the beginning of the process until the end.
Trust Z Family Law To Give You Peace Of Mind
When you work with Z Family Law, we do not treat you like a case number. We understand that you are grieving for your loved one, and we can help you take care of the legalities while you celebrate the legacy of your family member. With compassionate guidance, we will lead you through the probate process and take care of the complicated legalities. Reach out to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about how we can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What assets do not have to go through probate?
Most assets have to go through probate, but there are some that do not. Assets that are secured in trusts go directly to beneficiaries, for example. Also, jointly owned assets do not have to go through probate.
How are assets distributed if there is not a will?
If you die intestate, your assets are distributed according to the state of Maryland’s laws. Generally, your next of kin, be it your spouse, children, or parents will be the ones entitled to your assets.
I was named executor in a will. Am I legally obligated to serve?
No, if you do not want to serve as an executor, you are not obligated to do so. If you decline to serve, the court will appoint someone else.