ANNE ARUNDEL, CALVERT, CHARLES, ST. MARY’S & PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTIES.
Probate Administration | Haskell & Dyer
Settling an Estate Is a Long List of Deadlines. We Carry That List for You.
Probate is the full process of settling an estate, from opening it with the Register of Wills to the final accounting. We handle the paperwork and keep every deadline on track, so you can focus on your family.
If You're Just Starting Out
You do not have to figure this out alone.
Opening an estate, filing the inventory, notifying creditors, the final accounting: each step has its own form and its own deadline. It is a lot, especially while you are grieving. We can take the process off your plate and make sure nothing is missed. Call us and we will walk you through what comes first.
The Process, Start to Finish
What Probate Actually Involves
Probate follows a set path through the Register of Wills and, when needed, the Orphans' Court. Here is the shape of it.
1
Opening the estate. We file to open probate with the Register of Wills, submit the will if there is one, and have the personal representative formally appointed.
2
Inventory and notice. The estate's assets are identified, valued, and reported, and notice goes out to heirs and creditors so claims can be addressed properly.
3
Debts, claims, and taxes. Valid debts and final taxes are paid, improper claims are challenged, and the estate is kept in order through the claims period.
4
Final accounting and distribution. A final accounting is filed, the remaining assets are distributed to the heirs or beneficiaries, and the estate is closed.
Two Paths
Regular and Small Estate Administration
Maryland has two tracks. Which one applies depends mostly on the size of the estate, and it changes how much is involved.
Larger Estates
Regular Administration
The full process, with the inventory, accountings, and the standard claims period. It takes longer and involves more filings, and it is where having help keeping the deadlines straight matters most.
Modest Estates
Small Estate Administration
For estates under the qualifying threshold, Maryland offers a simpler, faster path with far less paperwork. If the estate qualifies, we use it to save your family time and cost.
What We Handle
The Filings and Tasks of Probate
From the first petition to the final receipt, we manage the moving parts.
Open
Petition and appointment of the representative
Inventory
Identifying and valuing the estate's assets
Accounting
Interim and final accountings to the court
Close
Distribution to heirs and closing the estate
How We Help You Through Probate
Our job is to make a hard process manageable: keep it on schedule, keep it correct, and keep it off your shoulders.
We Handle the Filings
Every petition, inventory, and accounting prepared and filed correctly, on time, with the Register of Wills.
We Track the Deadlines
Probate runs on deadlines. We keep the calendar so nothing lapses and the estate stays in good standing.
We Guide the Representative
We advise the personal representative at each step so the duties are met and personal liability is avoided.
We Keep It Moving
We work to settle the estate as efficiently as the process allows, so your family can move forward.
Common Questions
Probate Administration, Answered
How long does probate take in Maryland?
It varies with the size and complexity of the estate. A regular administration runs through a defined claims period and several required filings, so it commonly takes several months to over a year. A small estate can move much faster. We work to keep things on schedule and tell you honestly what to expect for your situation.
Do I need to go through probate at all?
It depends on what the person owned and how it was titled. Some assets, like jointly held property or accounts with named beneficiaries, can pass outside probate. Others have to go through the estate. We look at the full picture and tell you whether probate is required, and if so, which track fits.
What's the difference between regular and small estate administration?
Maryland sorts estates by value. Smaller estates under a set threshold qualify for small estate administration, a simpler and faster process with much less paperwork. Larger estates go through regular administration, with a full inventory, accountings, and claims period. We confirm which one your estate qualifies for and use the simpler path whenever we can.
Do I really need a lawyer to handle probate?
You are not required to have one, but probate involves strict deadlines, court filings, and personal responsibility for getting it right. Mistakes can cost time and money and can expose the personal representative personally. Having us handle the process takes that weight off you and helps ensure the estate is settled correctly.
Where is the estate handled?
Probate is handled through the Register of Wills in the county where the person lived, with the Orphans' Court resolving disputes and approving certain steps. We handle estates in Calvert, St. Mary's, and the surrounding counties, and we manage the filings and appearances so you do not have to navigate the courthouse on your own.
Settling a Loved One's Estate? Let Us Carry the Process.
From opening the estate to the final distribution, we handle the filings and keep every deadline on track. Reach out and we will walk you through what comes first. The consultation is a conversation, not a commitment.
Prefer to talk now? Reach us at 301-627-5844
The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC Practicing Law in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s, and Prince George’s Counties.
The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC Practicing Law in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s, and Prince George’s Counties.
The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC
Fax: 301-627-5848
Follow us:
The information provided on this website, in our blog posts, social media content, videos, or other marketing materials by The Law Offices of Haskell & Dyer, LLC is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or establish an attorney-client relationship. While we strive to provide accurate and current information, legal matters are often complex and fact-specific. You should not act or rely on any information contained herein without seeking professional legal counsel directly from a licensed attorney. Contacting our firm does not create an attorney-client relationship until a formal agreement is signed. For legal advice specific to your situation, please get in touch with our office directly.