Trust & Estate Lawyer in Montgomery County, MD
Montgomery County estate planning involves wills, trusts, and probate governed by Maryland Estates & Trusts law and the Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for estate administration, will contests, and fiduciary litigation. Our firm, founded in 1997, handles complex matters including Maryland’s $5 million estate tax threshold. By appointment only.
Maryland Trust & Estate Law
Maryland law provides a framework for estate planning, probate, and trust administration. The Maryland Trust Act codifies trustee duties and beneficiary rights. The state imposes an estate tax on estates exceeding $5 million (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 7-309).
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Maryland estate laws, visit the Maryland General Assembly statutes page (mgaleg.maryland.gov). For probate forms and procedures, refer to the Maryland Courts website (courts.state.md.us).
Montgomery County Estate Procedures
Wills are probated through the Montgomery County Register of Wills or Orphans’ Court for small estates. The personal representative must file an inventory within three months. Final accounting is required before distribution.
- Initial Consultation and Document Review: Gather all estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, deeds, and financial statements for review with an attorney.
- File with the Register of Wills: Submit the will and petition for probate at the Montgomery County Register of Wills office to appoint a personal representative.
- Inventory and Appraisal: The personal representative must file an inventory of the estate’s assets within 3 months, as required by Maryland law.
- Creditor Notification and Tax Filings: Notify creditors and file any required state (Maryland estate tax) and federal tax returns within statutory deadlines.
- Final Accounting and Distribution: Prepare a final accounting for court approval, then distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws.
Penalties and Consequences
In Montgomery County, breaches of fiduciary duty in estate or trust administration can lead to surcharges, removal, and personal liability.
| Issue | Classification | Potential Consequence | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil Action | Surcharge, Removal | Personal liability for losses |
| Will Contest | Estate Litigation | Estate distribution frozen | Legal fees, delayed inheritance |
| Failure to File Tax Returns | Tax Penalty | Interest and penalties | Based on tax owed |
| Improper Probate | Administrative Error | Process delays, re-filing | Additional court costs |
Results may vary. The outcomes described are not guarantees.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings combined legal experience to each case. We focus on the specific procedural requirements of Montgomery County estate matters.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved favorable outcomes for clients in various legal matters. Our firm-wide experience informs our approach to Montgomery County trust and estate cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Representation
Our Rockville location serves clients at Montgomery County courts and the Register of Wills office, accessible via I-270, I-495, and Route 355. We are a trust and estate lawyer near Rockville Town Square and the Montgomery County Government Center.
We serve Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Rockville/MD Location — Montgomery County area (by appointment)
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maryland estate tax exemption amount?
$5 million. Maryland imposes a state estate tax on estates exceeding $5 million (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 7-309). This is separate from the federal exemption.
How long does probate take in Montgomery County?
Typically 12-18 months. The timeline depends on estate complexity, creditor claims, and court scheduling. Small estates under $50,000 may use an expedited process.
What is the role of the Register of Wills in Maryland?
The Register of Wills oversees probate administration. They accept wills for filing, appoint personal representatives, and ensure compliance with Maryland Estates & Trusts law.
Can a will be contested in Maryland?
Yes. Grounds include lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution. A contest freezes estate distribution and can take 6-18 months to resolve.
What are the fiduciary duties of a trustee in Maryland?
Trustees must act in good faith, prudently manage assets, avoid conflicts of interest, and follow the trust document and the Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101).
Related Legal Services
For broader Maryland estate planning information, see our Maryland Trust & Estate Lawyer hub page. We also assist Montgomery County clients with business law and civil litigation. Learn more about Mr. Sris’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.