Resources
Estate Planning Resources
A few plain-language terms and trusted Maryland resources to help you get oriented. Articles and guides specific to your situation are always available by phone or email.
Glossary
Will
A legal document stating how your assets should be distributed and who should care for minor children after your death.
Trust
A legal arrangement that holds and manages assets on your behalf, often to avoid probate and maintain privacy.
Executor (Personal Representative)
The person you name to carry out your will's instructions and manage your estate.
Power of Attorney
A document naming someone to make financial decisions for you if you're ever unable to.
Advance Directive (Living Will)
A document stating your healthcare wishes if you can no longer communicate them yourself.
Probate
The court-supervised process of validating a will and distributing a person's estate.
Beneficiary
A person or organization you name to receive assets from your estate, trust, or account.
Guardian
A person appointed to care for your minor children if you're no longer able to.
Helpful Maryland Resources
Maryland Register of Wills
Estate search, probate forms, and Register of Wills offices for all 24 Maryland counties.
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Maryland Judiciary
Court self-help centers and general information on Maryland's court system.
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Maryland's People's Law Library
Free legal information and self-help resources for Maryland residents.
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Maryland State Bar Association
Information on Maryland's legal profession and finding legal help.
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