Trust & Estate Lawyer in Baltimore County, MD
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for wills, trusts, and estate planning in Baltimore County. Maryland imposes a state estate tax on estates exceeding $5 million under Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 7-309. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses its experience to handle probate, trust administration, and estate litigation. By appointment only.
Maryland Trust & Estate Law
Maryland trust and estate law is governed by the Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101 et seq.) and the Estates & Trusts Article. These laws cover wills, probate, trusts, and fiduciary duties. The Orphans’ Court or Register of Wills oversees probate in Baltimore County.
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Baltimore County Estate Procedures
Wills are probated through the Orphans’ Court or Register of Wills for small estates. A personal representative is appointed and must file an inventory within 3 months. A final accounting is required before the estate can be closed.
- File the will and petition for probate with the Baltimore County Register of Wills.
- The court appoints a personal representative and issues Letters of Administration.
- The personal representative inventories all estate assets within 3 months.
- Debts, taxes, and administrative expenses are paid from the estate.
- The personal representative files a final accounting with the court for approval.
- Upon court approval, remaining assets are distributed to the beneficiaries.
Trust & Estate Consequences in Maryland
In Baltimore County, failure to properly administer an estate or trust can lead to surcharges, removal as fiduciary, and estate litigation that freezes assets for 6-18 months.
| Issue | Classification | Consequence | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil Action | Surcharge, Removal | Personal liability |
| Will Contest | Estate Litigation | Estate Frozen | Legal fees, delays |
| Failure to File Estate Tax Return | Tax Penalty | IRS/State penalties | Fines + interest |
Results may vary. Each case depends on its specific facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our tagline is “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maryland estate tax exemption?
The Maryland estate tax exemption is $5 million. Estates valued over this amount are subject to Maryland state estate tax under Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 7-309.
How long does probate take in Baltimore County?
Probate in Baltimore County typically takes 12 to 18 months. Small estates under $50,000 may use an expedited process through the Register of Wills.
What is the role of a personal representative in Maryland?
A personal representative is appointed by the Orphans’ Court to administer the estate. They must file an inventory within 3 months and a final accounting before closing.
What happens if someone contests a will in Maryland?
A will contest freezes estate distribution. The case goes to the Orphans’ Court and can take 6 to 18 months to resolve, depending on complexity.
Do I need a lawyer to create a trust in Maryland?
Yes. The Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101) has specific legal requirements. A lawyer ensures the trust is valid and meets your goals.
Baltimore County Trust & Estate Lawyer Near Me
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Baltimore County courts. We represent individuals and families in Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium.
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 only
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
Related Legal Services
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.