Category: wills

Once you have signed your Last Will & Testament (with attesting witnesses), several steps should be taken to keep your Will safe. First, the original Will should be kept somewhere safe with other legal papers and important things like deeds, vehicle titles, stock certificates and the like. Options include a safe or locked file cabinet… Continue reading Maryland and DC: I Have Signed My Will (With Witnesses) – What Do I With It?

A will—often legally titled a “Last Will & Testament”—is a written document signed by a person (and attested) that directs how the person’s assets are to be distributed and disposed of after death. For example, if a person has an automobile that they want to go to a friend or favorite nephew, then that person… Continue reading Requirements for Valid Wills in Maryland and DC

In Maryland, a child (or others expecting an inheritance) has no binding right to an expected inheritance even if a parent says to the child that they will be “leaving everything” to the child. This oral statement is not a binding or enforceable contract in Maryland. This is true even if spouses say to each… Continue reading Maryland Estate Planning: Is a Contract To Make A Will Valid?

If you have children and you want to ensure that they receive their inheritance in the event of some tragedy, there are several legal vehicles available under Maryland and D.C. law. The issue is important if the children are under the age of 18, because, under Maryland law and the laws of D.C., persons under… Continue reading Maryland and D.C. Vehicles for Ensuring a Child’s Inheritance

Thinking about end-of-life scenarios is not exactly an enjoyable activity. In fact, most people have a tendency to understandably avoid thinking about their mortality. However, despite how uncomfortable the concept is, it is important to get your Will done sooner rather than later. Regardless of how healthy you are or how complicated your assets are,… Continue reading Why You Should Get Your Will Done Now

No one likes to think about death, especially their own. However, thinking ahead and creating proper advance planning documents like a Will can legally protect your spouse, children and assets, and avoid some common pitfalls and headaches associated with your unfortunate passing. What is a Will? It is common practice to draft Wills after big life events… Continue reading Everyone is telling me to get a Will, but I don’t see the point. Why do I need one?