The Maryland Probate Process
Being named the personal representative (or executor/executrix) of a deceased family member's estate is one of the highest compliments that you can receive. It is also a serious responsibility. As a personal representative, you have a fiduciary responsibility to the estate. If you forget to do something or do something wrong, you could incur significant liability.
At The Shump Law Firm, our lawyers represent personal representatives and guide them through the Maryland probate process. As your attorney, we will perform all the legal steps required, including:
- File the appropriate probate petition
- Publish the legal notices that are required
- Secure the bond to protect the estate
- Assist the personal representative in identifying all the assets of the estate
- Provide the probate court an inventory of the assets
- Have assets properly appraised
- Assist any sales of real estate and other property that is a part of the estate
- Retitle any property that is transferred to heirs or legatees
- Settle any debts that the estate is obligated to pay
- Provide a interim and final accountings of the estate
- Defend the personal representative against any personal liability
- File any income and estate tax returns Tax issues are one of many issues that can present a risk for personal representatives. If taxes are not paid, you could be held personally liable for those taxes. If the estate assets have already been distributed, the money needed to pay taxes may already be gone.
Free Lawyer Consultation
For more information about our probate or estate administration services, call (410) 832-8865 or fill out the contact form on this Web site. Our law office is located in the Baltimore suburb of Towson, Maryland.
