Guardianship and Minor Trusts for St. Leonard Families | Haskell & Dyer
If you’re raising a young family in St. Leonard, you’re probably focused on school drop-offs, soccer games, and making memories at home.
But here’s something most parents haven’t planned for: what happens to your children if something happens to you?
It’s a tricky question.
But as an estate attorney, I’ve seen the difference between families who plan and those who leave it to chance.
Let me walk you through how you can protect your children with the right legal tools, starting with guardianship and minor trusts.
Why Guardianship Planning Matters
If both parents pass away or become unable to care for their kids, a court will step in and decide who raises them.
And if you haven’t named a legal guardian in your estate plan, the court may choose someone you never would’ve picked.
Naming a guardian gives you peace of mind. It tells the court, in writing, who you trust to raise your children.
And it’s not just about love, it’s about stability, values, parenting style, and location.
When I sit down with parents in St. Leonard, we talk about the “what ifs” no one wants to think about, so their kids are never left in limbo.
The Problem With Leaving Money Directly to Minors
Many parents think their kids will automatically inherit everything.
But here’s the catch: minors can’t legally own property in Maryland.
That includes bank accounts, life insurance proceeds, and even the family home.
Without a trust in place, the court will appoint someone to manage those assets until your child turns 18.
And when they do? They get full control—no matter how large the inheritance is.
That’s why I strongly recommend setting up a minor’s trust.
How a Minor’s Trust Works
A minor’s trust is a legal structure that holds your child’s inheritance until they’re old enough and mature enough to handle it. You get to decide:
- Who manages the money (called a trustee)
- When your child receives it (age 21, 25, 30—your call)
- What the funds can be used for (education, housing, medical needs, etc.)
It’s flexible, protective, and tailored to your family’s needs.
Aligning Insurance, Retirement, and College Accounts
Even if you have a trust, if your life insurance or retirement accounts name your children directly as beneficiaries, it can still go through court.
We’ll make sure everything in your IRA, 401(k), life insurance, and 529 plans lines up with your estate plan.
I’ve worked with families in St. Leonard who had great intentions but hadn’t updated their paperwork.
One small oversight can lead to delays, costs, and even family disputes.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
This kind of planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for every parent who wants to protect their children.
It’s about making sure your family stays strong, no matter what the future brings.
If you’re in St. Leonard and haven’t created a guardianship plan or minor’s trust, now is the time.
I’ll walk you through every step and make sure your wishes are legally secure.
Let’s build a plan that puts your children first.
👉 Book your consultation online now or call us directly at 301-627-5844.
Matthew J. Dyer, Esq.
Estate Attorney | Haskell & Dyer, Upper Marlboro, MD
