Trust & Estate Lawyer in Baltimore County, MD
Maryland Trust & Estate Law
Maryland trust and estate law involves creating wills and trusts to manage assets during life and after death, and administering estates through probate. Key statutes include the Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101 et seq.) and the Estates & Trusts Article. The state imposes an estate tax on estates valued over $5 million.
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Maryland General Assembly
Official Maryland Legal Resources
Baltimore County Estate Procedures
In Baltimore County, wills are probated through the Orphans’ Court or the Register of Wills for small estates. The personal representative must file an inventory of assets within three months and a final accounting before closing the estate.
- File the original will and a petition for probate with the Baltimore County Register of Wills or Orphans’ Court.
- The court appoints a personal representative (executor) to administer the estate.
- The personal representative must file an inventory of all estate assets within three months.
- Pay valid debts, claims, and taxes, including Maryland estate tax if applicable.
- File a final accounting with the court showing all receipts and disbursements.
- Distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries and obtain court approval to close the estate.
Penalties and Consequences
In Baltimore County, failure to properly administer an estate can lead to personal liability for the personal representative, surcharges for breach of fiduciary duty, and removal by the court.
| Issue | Classification | Potential Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil | Surcharge (monetary penalty), removal as personal representative |
| Failure to File Inventory/Accounting | Court Contempt | Fines, removal, personal liability for losses |
| Maryland Estate Tax Non-Payment | Tax Penalty | Interest and penalties on unpaid tax |
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 brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to trust and estate matters in Maryland. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of Maryland’s estate tax laws and probate procedures.
Case Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved favorable outcomes in estate planning, probate administration, and will contest cases. Our firm-wide experience across multiple states informs our approach to Maryland trust and estate law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Representation in Baltimore County
Our Maryland location serves clients at Baltimore County courts. We represent individuals and families throughout the Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium areas.
Trust and estate lawyer near Baltimore County. 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
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maryland estate tax exemption?
Maryland imposes a state estate tax on estates exceeding $5 million (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 7-309). The exemption amount is $5 million per individual.
How long does probate take in Baltimore County?
Probate typically takes 12-18 months in Baltimore County. 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 can freeze estate assets. The case is heard in the Orphans’ Court and can take 6-18 months to resolve, depending on complexity.
What is the Maryland Trust Act?
The Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101 et seq.) governs trust administration, trustee duties, and beneficiary rights in the state.
Related Legal Services
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.