You may be asked who you want as your executor when drafting an estate plan. Simply put, an executor is responsible for managing your assets after you pass away. The role of executor is not a simple job that should be taken lightly. It can help to understand what an...
Maryland Estate Planning Law Blog
How is a living will different from a power of attorney?
Both living wills and powers of attorney can be used when creating an estate plan. Often, these are both set up to address future medical decisions. Though similar in focus, these documents both approach the issue much differently. With a living will, the goal is...
What duty of care does a guardian owe an adult ward?
People experiencing cognitive decline, dealing with dementia, diagnosed with serious brain injuries or struggling to manage significant mental health challenges may not be able to handle their own affairs. While it is often a last option after exhausting other...
Leaving an inheritance to a beneficiary with special needs
If you have a family member with special needs, you may certainly want to include them when you make your estate plan. You may know that they have a limited income, for example, or none at all. Leaving them an inheritance can be life-changing. The money may mean more...
Too rich for Medicaid, too poor to afford nursing home care
You may have watched your parents save for retirement for years. They paid off their home, put money aside and tried to prepare for the future. Then a health crisis happens, and you learn that nursing home care in Maryland can cost thousands of dollars each month. At...
Who is a surrogate decision maker for medical care in Maryland?
If your loved one cannot make medical decisions on their own and has not named a health care agent, Maryland law may allow another person to step in. A surrogate decision maker in Maryland can make certain treatment choices when no advance directive controls the...
Can your beneficiaries get your estate executor removed?
If this is the year you’ve committed to putting your estate plan in place, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing your personal representative (commonly known as an executor). This is the person who will be in charge of administering your estate,...
Estate planning tips to safeguard your assets as a senior
Estate planning is one of the most important steps seniors can take to protect their assets, family and future wishes. While many people delay the process, having a clear estate plan can reduce confusion and stress for loved ones later in life. A well-prepared estate...
2 ways financial assets can skip probate
When you pass away, many of your assets are going to go through probate. But it is important to remember that not all of them are bound by this process. There are some assets that can skip probate entirely, often by transferring out of your possession upon your...
3 signs it may be time to review and update an estate plan
Maryland estate plans help protect dependent family members and create a legacy for people who die. They can also outline medical preferences and grant legal authority to other adults in emergency scenarios. Estate plans may retain their authority indefinitely, but...
