Do I Need a Will in Maryland or Washington DC?
Why Estate Planning Matters for Maryland and Washington DC Families
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Do I Need a Will in Maryland?
Do I Need a Will in Maryland?
Many people assume their property will automatically pass to the people they love when they pass away. Unfortunately, without a will, Maryland law determines who receives your assets, not you.
A properly prepared will allows you to decide:
• who receives your property
• who manages your estate
• who cares for your minor children
• how your personal belongings are distributed
Without a will, your family may face additional court involvement and delays.
Without a will, your family may face additional court involvement and delays.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Maryland?
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Maryland?
When someone dies without a will, their estate is distributed according to Maryland intestacy laws.
This means the court decides how assets are divided among surviving relatives.
In some cases, this can result in outcomes that do not reflect the person’s wishes.
For example:
• unmarried partners may receive nothing
• stepchildren may not inherit
• guardianship decisions for children may be left to the court
What Does a Basic Estate Plan Include?
What Does a Basic Estate Plan Include?
Most clients start with a simple estate plan that includes:
• Last Will and Testament
• Financial Power of Attorney
• Healthcare Directive
• Guardianship designation for minor children (if applicable)
These documents ensure your wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable.
Planning for Families with Minor Children
Planning for Families with Minor Children
Parents with young children should also consider naming a guardian in their will. This allows you to designate who should care for your children if something happens to you.
Without this designation, the court may decide who becomes responsible for the child.
Maryland law also allows parents to create standby guardianship designations, which can provide additional protection in emergency situations.
Avoiding Probate
Avoiding Probate
Some clients choose to go beyond a will and create a revocable living trust to simplify the transfer of property and avoid probate.
Trust planning is often recommended for clients with real estate or more complex estates.
Estate Planning for Washington DC Residents
Estate Planning for Washington DC Residents
Our office also assists clients located in Washington DC.
While the general purpose of a will is similar, probate procedures and inheritance laws may differ between Maryland and DC.
If you live in DC, we can prepare documents compliant with DC law.
Next Step
Next Step
If you would like to prepare a will or review your estate planning options, schedule a consultation with our office.
Schedule Estate Planning Consultation
Meet with an attorney to discuss wills, trusts, guardianship planning, and asset protection.
Legal Plan Clients
Legal Plan Clients
If you are covered under a legal plan, please contact our office first so we can verify your coverage before scheduling.
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