Maryland Probate Process: 5 Biggest Mistakes You Can Make

The Maryland probate process can be a lot to handle when you are appointed as the personal representative. In this video, Maryland estate planning attorney Frank Gray describes how you can avoid the 5 biggest mistakes when going through probate in MD. ✅ Download our Free Probate Guide here: https://chesapeakewillsandtrusts.com/...


🚫[0:25] Probate Mistake #1: Waiting!

The reason you don't wait is that the sooner you go to the register of wills, the sooner you can open the estate probate process. Concerning the will, the sooner you get the letters of administration, the sooner you can unlock bank accounts and re-title them in the name of the estate. You can then use them to start maintaining the assets.

🚫[0:57] Probate Mistake #2: Not taking control of the assets right away.

A lot of people, unfortunately, allow others to continue utilizing assets, like living in the decedent's home. The problem here is if something happens to the property, it diminishes value that can be problematic for the estate.

🚫[1:21] Probate Mistake #3: Not opening the decedent's mail

It is critically important to continue opening the decedent's mail so that you can get an accurate idea of what they owed to creditors. This helps provide an accurate financial picture.

🚫[1:45] Probate Mistake #4: Co-mingling funds

Some people begin using estate funds as if they were their own, to pay personal expenses. You owe a fiduciary responsibility to the estate and the personal representative can be held personally liable for mistakes that they make.

🚫[2:16] Probate Mistake #5: Trying to do it alone

Not every estate needs a tax accountant, but there are some that could benefit. A professional appraiser may also be involved if an estate includes things such as jewelry. You may also need help from an attorney to represent the estate or the personal representative.

✅ Download our Free Probate Guide: https://chesapeakewillsandtrusts.com/...

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