Trust & Estate Lawyer in Howard 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. The primary statutes are the Maryland Estates & Trusts Article and the Maryland Trust Act.
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Howard County Estate Procedures
In Howard County, wills are probated through the Register of Wills for small estates or the Orphans’ Court. The personal representative must file an inventory of estate assets within three months of appointment.
- File the will and petition for probate with the Howard County Register of Wills.
- The court appoints a personal representative (executor) to administer the estate.
- The personal representative must inventory 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 for approval.
- Distribute remaining assets to the beneficiaries as directed by the will or law.
Trust & Estate Consequences in Maryland
In Howard County, trust and estate matters involve court supervision, fiduciary duties, and potential tax consequences, including Maryland’s estate tax on estates over $5 million.
| Issue | Classification | Court Supervision | Fees/Costs | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Probate Administration | Judicial Process | Register of Wills / Orphans’ Court | Filing fees based on estate value; Personal representative commission | 12-18 months typical |
| Will Contest | Civil Litigation | Orphans’ Court | Court costs; Attorney fees (hourly) | 6-18 months |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil Action | Circuit Court | Potential surcharge; Removal; Attorney fees | Varies |
| Maryland Estate Tax | Tax Assessment | MD Comptroller | Tax on estates > $5M; Return due 9 months after death | N/A |
Results may vary. Each estate and trust matter is unique.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to trust and estate matters in Maryland. We focus on a case-specific approach for each client’s planning and administration needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maryland estate tax exemption?
Maryland imposes a state estate tax on estates exceeding $5 million. The exemption is $5 million per person as of 2026. Estates valued above this threshold may owe Maryland estate tax also to any federal tax.
How long does probate take in Howard County?
Probate in Howard County typically takes 12 to 18 months. Small estates under $50,000 may use an expedited process through the Register of Wills. Complex estates or will contests can extend the timeline.
What is the role of a personal representative in Maryland?
A personal representative is appointed by the Orphans’ Court to administer the estate. Their duties include inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property. They must file an inventory within 3 months and a final accounting.
Can a will be contested in Maryland?
Yes. A will contest can freeze estate assets. Grounds include lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution. These cases are heard in the Orphans’ Court and can take 6 to 18 months to resolve.
What is the Maryland Trust Act?
The Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101 et seq.) is the state law governing trust administration. It defines trustee duties, beneficiary rights, and procedures for modifying or terminating trusts.
Howard County Trust & Estate Lawyer Near You
Our Rockville location serves clients at Howard County courts. We represent individuals and families in Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel.
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 Information
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on your specific situation.