When someone passes away without a will, it can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for the loved ones left behind. The grieving process is already complicated enough, but adding uncertainty and confusion about what happens to the deceased person's assets and...
Estate planning
How can you determine which tools to include in your estate plan?
Estate planning appears straightforward at first glance, but it often unfolds into a complex puzzle where each piece plays a crucial role in securing financial peace of mind. If you find yourself at a crossroads, trying to determine which tools best fit your unique...
What questions should I ask if I am named as an executor?
When a loved one entrusts you with the responsibility of managing their estate, it's both an honor and a significant undertaking. The tasks ahead may be overwhelming, but asking the right questions can help you fulfill this role effectively. Here are some points to...
Safeguarding your special needs child’s future in Maryland
It is natural for parents with adult children who have disabilities to worry about the comfort and security of their lives after they're gone. Leaving an inheritance directly to an adult with special needs can jeopardize their eligibility for vital government benefits...
Why (and when) do you need an advance directive in Maryland?
An advance directive is a legal document that specifies a person's preferences for medical care if they become unable to make decisions for themselves. Setting up an advance directive ensures that healthcare providers and family members understand and respect your...
Estate planning mistakes to avoid for your child with special needs
Securing the future of a child demands careful planning and thoughtful consideration, especially if they have developmental disabilities that require them to receive lifelong support from loved ones. Estate planning creates a safety net for children that can last a...
What end-of-life preparations to include in your estate plan
When making an estate plan, it could be easy to determine what to include, such as real estate properties and financial accounts usually left behind after death. There are typical or go-to estate planning options to accommodate these parts of the estate, allowing...
How do you create an estate plan with a blended family?
A blended family is a family unit where one or both partners have children from an earlier relationship. It is formed when parents remarry or cohabit after a divorce, separation or death of a spouse. While blended families provide many benefits, they also present...
How to choose an executor for your will
Choosing an executor is one of the most critical components of creating your estate plan in Maryland. The person you name as your executor is responsible for distributing your wealth after your passing and making key decisions. When selecting your executor, you should...
Can a nonfamily member fund a special needs trust?
Families of individuals with special needs naturally explore ways to protect their loved one’s physical, mental, emotional and financial well-being. A common tool they may consider are special needs trusts (SNT). While there is usually little to no question as to who...