Estate, Probate and Elder Law FAQs
To help you make decisions about your family and your estate, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions, or FAQs. For more information on any of these topics, schedule a consultation with the Law Offices of Naiman & Naiman, P.A., by calling 410-504-1113 or sending your information online.
Don’t I Just Need a Will?
A will is a basic component of an estate plan, but it shouldn’t be the only component. To ensure that your assets are distributed properly and all members of your family are cared for, we recommend including other provisions in your estate plan as well — including powers of attorney and trusts. To determine what estate plan will meet your needs, it is best to consult with an estate planning attorney to find a more personalized solution.
How Do I Ensure That All My Children Are Treated Fairly?
While you may want to give all your children an equal share of your estate, that can often be difficult. For example, if you have a business that takes up 80 percent of your estate and only one child wants ownership, you need to find a way to make your estate plan fair for your other children. We can help you explore your options, such as creating a life insurance trust for your other children or selling part of your business to generate more cash in your estate plan.
How Do I Ensure That My Spouse Is Cared For?
We highly recommend thoroughly planning for you and your family’s long-term care before anything happens. By protecting your assets and going through Medicaid planning, you can ensure that your care does not take money away from your spouse’s, and by assigning powers of attorney to someone you trust you can ensure that nobody is exploited financially.
My Parents Live in Maryland, but I Don’t. How Can I Help?
Our lawyers happily represent clients who don’t live in the area, but need assistance for family members who do. Hiring local counsel can be a great way to manage the needs of your loved ones from far away, so you can worry more about their well-being and less about the legal challenges that stand in the way.
What if I Die Without a Will?
Maryland has laws governing the process by which someone’s assets are distributed if he or she dies intestate, or without a will. Your assets will be allocated to your spouse, children, parents or siblings — depending on your family situation. There is no flexibility as to how these assets are distributed, however, and this process rarely meets the needs of Maryland families.
For more information on any of these topics or if you have further questions, contact our lawyers to schedule a confidential consultation.