ADMINISTERING
ADMINISTERING
ESTATES IN MARYLAND
ESTATES IN MARYLAND
A Basic Instructional Guide
A Basic Instructional Guide
REGISTER OF WILLS FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY
50 Maryland Avenue
North Tower 3220
Rockville, Maryland 20850
Phone: 240.777.9600
Web: registers.maryland.gov
HON. JOSEPH M. GRIFFIN
The purpose of this booklet is to inform you about administering estates – also known as “probate” – in
Maryland. It describes this process and the necessary forms you would use if you are nominated to act as a
personal representative of an estate. This booklet focuses on the most common forms used in probate. It
does not cover topics such as state or federal income taxes, estate taxes, or how to dispose of real property
located outside of the State of Maryland that may be subject to another state’s jurisdiction or laws. For any
topic not covered in this booklet, please consult with an attorney or the office of the Register of Wills.
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
Disclaimer: This brochure is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute or is intended to
constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney for any legal advice.
Table of Contents
General Information .....................................................................................
SECTION 1: Introduction ...............................................................................
SECTION 2: Register of Wills ........................................................................
SECTION 3: Orphans Court ...........................................................................
SECTION 4: Definitions .................................................................................
SECTION 5: Small Estates ............................................................................
SECTION 6: Regular Estates ........................................................................
SECTION 7: Modified Administration ..........................................................
SECTION 8: Limited Orders ..........................................................................
SECTION 9: Inheritance Tax ........................................................................
SECTION 10: Distribution .............................................................................
SECTION 11: Fees ...........................................................................................
SECTION 12: Important Deadlines ...............................................................
SECTION 13: Responsibilities of a Personal Representative ..................
SECTION 14: Duties & Powers of a Personal Representative .................
SECTION 15: Frequently Asked Questions & Answers ..............................
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4-6
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10-12
13-14
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15-16
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20-22
Joseph M. Griffin
Register of Wills
Montgomery County, MD
Elected to Six Terms as Montgomery County Register of Wills, 1998 - Present
Chair, National College of Probate Judges, website design, 2012 - Present
Farquhar Middle School PTA President, 2009 - 2013
Board for the Disaster Recovery Initiative, 2008 - Present
Board of Advisors for the MD Local Government Investment Pool, 2007 - 2012
President Maryland Register of Wills Association, 2001 - 2004, 2010 -2013 (limited to
three consecutive years)
Vice President of Maryland Register of Wills Association, 2000 - 2001, 2007 - 2010
Member – National College of Probate Judges, 1999 - Present
Lifelong Resident of Montgomery County
It is my pleasure to serve our community and I welcome any suggestions or comments on how I may improve
service. I recognize that people going through the probate process are usually experiencing some difficult times. I am here
to assist you and to help make this process easier.
Committed to quality service,
Joseph M Griffin
and REMEMBER:
This office is restricted from giving legal advice. This book is intended to help assist in the preparation of
administrative probate. If you have additional questions or a specific situation not addressed in this book, consult with
your attorney or the Register of Wills before you proceed.
Questions regarding the following should be directed
to this department:
Wills, Administrative Probate, Judicial Probate,
Bonds, Jurisdiction, Limited Orders, Letters of
Administration, Updated/Additional Letters of
Administration for a Small Estate, Change of Address
and Amended List of Interested Persons
Joseph M. Griffin
Register of Wills Office
50 Maryland Avenue
North Tower 3220
Rockville, Maryland 20850
Hours………………………….…......8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday
Main phone number…………….…......…………………………………...240-777-9600
Toll free within Maryland………….....………………………….……...1-888-892-2180
Fax number……………………………..........……………………………….240-777-9602
Website.…………………………...……........…..….……www.registers.maryland.gov
Appointments are recommended to open estates in order to promote faster service
New Proceedings Division…………..…….………...…...................…240-777-9620
Financial Analysis Division………………………….…...................…240-777-9640
Questions regarding the following should be directed
to this department:
Accounts, Petition for Fees/Commissions, Petition
for Funeral Expenses, Inheritance Tax on Probate
Assets, Distribution, Final Reports, Audit Request
Responses
Information Report, Inventories, Appraisals,
Inheritance Tax on Non-Probate Assets, Trusts, Joint
Accounts, Payable on Death Accounts, IRAs, any
Interest Less than Absolute
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Court Division……………………….....................….….....................…240-777-9690
Questions regarding the following should be directed
to this department:
Hearings, Caveats, Miscellaneous Petitions, Show
Cause Orders, Subpoenas
Data Processing Division…….….....................….…...................…240-777-9670
Questions regarding the following should be directed
to this department:
Whether an Estate has been Opened, Whether a
Document has been Filed and/or Docketed,
Delinquent Filings, Extensions of Time, Claims,
Mandatory Filing Deadlines
Records Division…….…..................................….….....................…240-777-9680
Questions regarding the following should be directed
to this department:
Copy Request, Updated/Additional Letters of
Administration in Regular Estates, Exemplified
Copies, Certified Copies, General Information from
Estate Files
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Section 1: Introduction
Estate administration – also known as “probate” – is the legal process of collecting the assets and
property of someone who has passed away, determining their debts, and distributing those assets to
those entitled to inherit. This booklet explains the probate process in Maryland, including the necessary
forms you would need to file if you are selected to act as a personal representative of an estate. It
discusses the most common forms used in administrative probate, all of which are available on the
Register of Wills website and at the Office of the Register of Wills in the county where the decedent lived.
More information about Maryland law and the forms used in estate administration can be found in the
Estates & Trusts Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland and Title 6 of the Maryland Rules of Procedure,
both of which are available online and at most public libraries.
For any topic not covered in this guide, please consult with the Register of Wills or an attorney.
Section 2: Register of Wills
The Register of Wills is a public office established under the Constitution of Maryland. The Register of Wills
is elected every four years in each county and Baltimore City. The Office of the Register of Wills is a full-
time state agency staffed by experienced professionals who assist and advise the public in the
preparation of forms for administrative probate. It is responsible for appointing personal representatives
to administer decedents’ estates and for overseeing the proper and timely administration of these
proceedings. It also performs the following duties: maintains the permanent record of all proceedings,
tracks estates and refers delinquent matters to the Orphans’ Court, determines and collects inheritance
taxes and probate fees, audits accounts of personal representatives and guardians, mails various notices
and court orders to interested persons, and provides a service for safekeeping of wills for living persons.
The Register’s office is, however, prohibited from rendering legal advice. The Register of Wills website
includes many useful resources, including all forms in .pdf format, numerous publications and sample
guides, all public legal notices related to estate administration, links to related state and federal agencies,
an estate search tool that allows you to research any estate opened in Maryland, and the ability to
download copies of probate documents at the click of a button.
Section 3: Orphans' Court
The Orphans’ Court is a public office established under the Constitution of Maryland. There is an Orphans'
Court in each of Maryland's 24 jurisdictions, with purview over estates of deceased persons. This Court
conducts judicial probate when an estate cannot be handled administratively and hears matters involving
contested estates. In Harford, Howard, and Montgomery Counties, a Judge of the Circuit Court sit as the
Orphans' Court. In the remaining 21 of Maryland’s 24 jurisdictions, three judges are chosen in partisan
elections for four-year terms and in 18 of those jurisdictions, judges are not required to be attorneys.
The Orphans’ Court approves administration accounts, and personal representative commissions and
attorney’s fees for services rendered on behalf of an estate. As a court of special and limited jurisdiction,
the Orphans’ Court does not have the authority to determine legal title to assets. These questions must be
determined in the Circuit Court. Similarly, while matters involving the validity of wills may be heard by the
Orphans’ Court, these questions are almost always transferred to the Circuit Court for adjudication.
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Section 4: Definitions
1. Administration of an estate: the management
of a decedent's assets, which includes the
collection of property, payment of expenses and
debts, and distribution to the heirs or legatees.
2. Administrative Probate: a proceeding that is
initiated with the Register of Wills by an
interested person for the appointment of a
personal representative and for the probate of a
will, or the determination of intestacy of the
decedent.
3. Child (or children): a child who is a marital
child, an adopted child, a non-marital child to the
extent provided by law, and a child conceived
from the genetic material of a person after their
death to the extent provided by law.
4. Claimant: a person (or entity) who files a claim
against a decedent's estate.
5. Debt of record: a recorded debt, such as a
mortgage on real property that is recorded in
land records.
6. Decedent: a deceased person.
7. Descendant: one who is in the direct line of an
ancestor, including a child, grandchild, great-
grandchild, etc.
8. Domicile: the place where a person has
physically been present with the intention to
make the place a permanent home. (In other
words, domicile is the place one would return to
or intend to return to when away).
9. Election against the will: the right provided
by statute to a spouse that allows them to
receive a statutory share, even if it is more than
the will provides.
10. Encumbrance: a lien or claim attached to
property, such as a mortgage on real property.
11. Estate: the property of a decedent.
12. Family allowance: an allowance in addition to
property passing under the will or by the laws of
intestacy, for the personal use of the surviving
spouse and for the use of each unmarried child
under the age of 18 years.
13. Fiduciary: a person or institution that
manages and administers money and other
assets of another. A fiduciary includes trustee,
receiver, custodian, guardian, executor,
administrator, or personal representative.
14. Gross estate: the actual value of the estate
assets without the deduction of liens, debts or
expenses.
15. Heir: a family member who inherits from an
estate when the decedent dies intestate.
16. Information Report: the document that
reports all non-probate property (property that
passes outside the probate estate). (Non-Probate
property includes, but not limited to, jointly held
assets, life estate or remainder interests in a
trust or deed, trusts in which the decedent had
an interest, payable on death (P.O.D.) assets, and
pension and benefit plans including IRAs with
named beneficiaries.)
17. Inheritance tax: a tax imposed on the
privilege of receiving property from a decedent's
estate.
18. Interested person: the person(s) serving (or
petitioning to serve) as personal
representative(s), legatees, heirs (even if the
decedent died testate), trustee(s) of a
testamentary trust, trustee(s) of a living trust, if
applicable, and court-appointed guardian(s) for
minors and disabled adults who are interested
persons.
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Section 4: Definitions
19. Intestate: without a will.
20. Issue: every living lineal descendant except a
lineal descendant of a living lineal descendant,
including a marital child, an adopted child, a non-
marital child to the extent provided by law, and a
child conceived from the genetic material of a
person after the death of the person to the
extent provided by law. Issue does not include a
stepchild or a foster child.
21. Joint tenancy: a type of ownership where
personal or real property is held jointly by two or
more persons in undivided (equal) shares with
the right of survivorship. When a joint tenant
dies, their share passes automatically by
operation of law to the survivor(s).
22. Judicial probate: a probate proceeding
conducted by the Orphans' Court when the
situation prohibits administrative probate (ex.
when the validity of the will is questioned, the
will is damaged, or more than one qualified
person applies for personal representative).
23. Legatee: a person named in a will to inherit.
24. Letter of Administration: a document issued
by the Register of Wills that authorizes a
personal representative to administer an estate.
25. Limited Order: an order permitting a search
for assets in the decedent’s name alone or for a
will located in a safe deposit box.
26. Lineal: one who is in the direct line of the
decedent, including ancestors and descendants.
27. Modified Administration: a streamlined
version of administrative probate. In lieu of an
inventory and an account, the personal
representative is required to file a final report
within 10 months from the date of appointment,
which is reviewed and approved by the Register
of Wills.
28. Net estate: property remaining after the
deduction of liens, debts and expenses.
29. Non-probate estate: property that passes
outside the probate estate, including, but not
limited to jointly held assets, life estate or
remainder interests in a trust or deed, trusts in
which the decedent had an interest, payable on
death (P.O.D.) assets, and pension and benefit
plans including IRAs with named beneficiaries.
30. Personal Representative: the person
appointed to administer the estate (often
referred to as executor or administrator).
31. Petition for Probate: the document required
to initiate a probate proceeding.
32. Pour-over Will: a will distributing money or
property to an existing trust.
33. Probate estate: property owned solely by the
decedent or as a tenant in common.
34. Regular estate: the estate procedure for a
decedent who owned probate assets with a gross
value in excess of $50,000 (or $100,000 if the
sole heir or legatee is the surviving spouse).*
35. Residence: living in a specific area without
necessarily having the intent to indefinitely stay
there. See "Domicile" for difference.
36. Registered domestic partner: an individual
who has filed a declaration of domestic
partnership with a Register of Wills, has been
issued a certification of domestic partnership by
the Register of Wills, and whose partnership had
not been terminated prior to the death of the
decedent. A surviving registered domestic
partner has the same priority as a surviving
spouse to serve as personal representative, to
inherit in intestacy, and to receive a family
allowance. A surviving registered domestic
partner is also exempt from the inheritance tax.
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Section 4: Definitions
37. Small estate: the estate procedure for a
decedent who owned probate assets with a gross
value of $50,000 or less (or $100,000 or less if
the sole heir or legatee is the surviving spouse).*
38. Special Administrator: the administrator of
an estate appointed by the court when it is
necessary to protect and manage property prior
to the appointment of a personal representative.
(A special administrator has limited powers).
39. Tenants by the entirety: a type of ownership
that is created only between two spouses where
they hold title to an interest in property together
with the right of survivorship.
40. Tenants in common: a type of ownership
where two or more persons each hold an
undivided interest in a piece of property with no
right of survivorship. Upon the death of an
owner, their interest passes to the heirs under
the laws of intestacy or in accordance with the
terms of the will.
41. Testamentary Trust: a trust that is created
by a will and takes effect when the settlor
(testator) dies.
42. Testate: dying with a will.
43. Testator/Testatrix: individual who makes a
will.
44. Trust, also living trust or inter vivos trust:
real and/or personal property held by one party
(trustee) for the benefit of another (beneficiary).
Trust assets are non-probate assets.
*Note: For persons dying prior to October 1, 2012,
a Regular Estate consists of assets with a gross
value in excess of $30,000 (or $50,000 if the sole
heir or legatee is the surviving spouse).
For persons dying prior to October 1, 2012, the
Small Estate consists of assets with a value not
exceeding $30,000 (or $50,000 or less if the sole
heir or legatee is the surviving spouse).
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Section 5: Small Estates
If the probate assets in Maryland have a value of $50,000 or less (or $100,000 if the spouse is the sole legatee or
heir) the estate may be opened as a small estate. To establish the value of an estate, include only assets held in
the name of a decedent alone and/or an interest held as tenants in common. The value is the fair market value
less any debts of record secured by the property as of the date of death, to the extent that insurance benefits are
not payable to the lien holder or secured party for the secured debt.
Documents Required
As petitioner for appointment as personal representative, the process to open a small estate begins by filing the
Petition for Administration (Form 1103) and Schedule B (Form 1137). These forms include the following:
(1) The domicile of the decedent;
(2) Reason the petitioner has a right to be appointed the personal representative;
(3) Whether the decedent died with or without a will (if the decedent had a will, the original will must be
included with the Petition);
(4) The eligibility of the petitioner to serve as personal representative;
(5) A list of the decedent’s probate property (both real and personal property owned solely by the decedent or
as a tenant in common);
(6) Any lien secured by the property, such as mortgage on home or lien on vehicle; and
(7) A list of known creditors and the amounts claimed.
NOTE: Supporting documentation may be required showing the date of death value of each asset and any
mortgage or lien on any property.
The original Last Will and Testament and Codicil(s), if any, must be filed with the Register of Wills.
The List of Interested Persons (Form 1104) must be filed with the petition to open the estate. This list must
include the petitioner, all persons named in the will to inherit from the estate (legatees), and all heirs at law, even
if they are not named in the will. When distribution is to be made to a trust, the trustee is an interested person.
A Consent to Appointment of Personal Representative (Form 1118) is required by all interested persons who
have greater priority to serve as personal representative than the person petitioning. (Form 1118 also includes
language indicating whether there is consent to waiver of bond.)
The Appointment of Resident Agent (Form 1106) is required if the petitioner is not a resident of Maryland.
When the estate has a value of $10,000 or more after allowable expenses, a Bond of Personal Representative
(Form 1115) must be filed with the petition, unless bond is excused by the will or if waived by all interested persons
by signing a Waiver of Bond (Form 1117 or Form 1118). An insurance company must execute the bond form.
Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors, Notice to Unknown Heirs (Form 1109) must be filed with the
petition if the value of the assets in the estate exceeds the allowable funeral expenses, family allowances and
costs to the Register combined, or if the petitioner requests the probate of a will. The notice is published once by
the Register of Wills in a newspaper of general circulation that is designated by the personal representative. This
notice informs interested persons of their right to object to the appointment of the personal representative and
the probate of the decedent’s will, if applicable. It also informs creditors of their right to file a claim against the
estate.
An interested person may sign the Waiver of Notice (Form 1101) to forego all notice requirements in the estate.
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Section 5: Small Estates
Appointment of the Personal Representative
The Register of Wills may admit a will to probate and appoint a personal representative. The duties and powers of
a personal representative commence upon issuance of Letters of Administration. In granting letters, the register
observes an order of priority as established by Maryland law. Priority of appointment begins with person(s) named
in the will to serve, surviving spouse, children, etc., to creditors or any other person. Maryland law has established
restrictions on the right to letters of administration. The following is a partial list of some of the persons excluded:
(1) Under the age of 18 years;
(2) Mentally incompetent;
(3) Convicted of a serious crime, unless the person shows good cause for the granting of letters;
(4) Not a citizen of the United States unless the person is a permanent resident of the United States and is:
(a) The spouse of the decedent;
(b) An ancestor of the decedent;
(c) A descendant of the decedent; or
(d) A sibling of the decedent.
Upon appointment, the Register of Wills office will issue a schedule of mandatory filing deadlines. As the personal
representative of a small estate you are required to make a reasonably diligent effort to ascertain the names and
addresses of the decedent’s creditors, and mail or deliver a notice to those creditors.
Information Report (Form 1124)
Within three months after the appointment of a personal representative, the personal representative must file an
Information Report. The assets reported on this form are assets that the decedent held a less than absolute or
whole interest at date of death, or assets that had a previously designated beneficiary. Therefore, these assets do
not follow the terms of the will or the laws of intestacy. Any such assets passing to any persons or entities other
than those exempt from inheritance tax must be reported. The following are reportable on the Information Report:
(1) Jointly held assets;
(2) Transfer of any material part of the decedent’s property in the nature of a final disposition or distribution,
including any transfer that resulted in joint ownership of property within two years before death;
(3) Any interest less than absolute in real or personal property over which the decedent retained dominion
while alive;
(4) Payable on death (P.O.D.) or transfer on death (T.O.D.) accounts;
(5) Any interest in an annuity or other public or private employee pension or benefit plan;
(6) Any interest in real or personal property for life or for a term of years;
(7) Any other interest in real or personal property less than absolute, in trust or otherwise.
(8) Real or leasehold property located outside of Maryland either in the decedent’s name only or as a tenant
in common is reported for informational purposes only.
NOTE: All property listed on the Information Report has the same requirements for values and appraisals as
stated for the Inventory in a Regular Estate (Section 6 of this booklet).
Application to Fix Tax on Non-Probate Assets (Form 1125)
Where there is no formal administration of an estate an Application to Fix Tax on Non-Probate Assets shall be filed
within 90 days after the decedent’s death.
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Section 5: Small Estates
Serving it on the personal representative;
Filing it with the register of the county in which probate proceedings are being conducted and delivering or
mailing a copy to the personal representative; or
Filing suit.
Six months after the date of the decedent's death; or
30 days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of the “Notice of
Appointment, Notice to Creditors, Notice to Unknown Heirs” form or other written notice, notifying the
creditor that his claim will be barred unless he presents the claim within 30 days from the mailing or delivery
of the notice.
Six months after publication of notice of the first appointment of a personal representative; or
Two months after the personal representative mails, or otherwise delivers to the Department's Division of
Medical Assistance Recoveries a copy of the “Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors, Notice to Unknown
Heirs” or other written notice, notifying the Department that the claim will barred unless the Department
presents its claim within two months from receipt of the notice.
Claims
A claimant may make a claim against an estate, within the time allowed for presenting claims, by:
1.
2.
3.
A claim must be presented within the earlier of the following dates:
1.
2.
If the claim is filed prior to the appointment of the personal representative, the claimant may file the claim with
the register in the county in which the decedent was domiciled or in any county in which the decedent resided on
the date of his death or in which real property or a leasehold interest in real property of the decedent is located.
A claim filed by the Department of Health against an estate must be filed within the earlier of the following dates:
1.
2.
NOTE: Additional forms may be required to open certain estates, depending on the circumstances.
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Section 6: Regular Estates
If the probate assets in Maryland have a value in excess of $50,000 (or $100,000 if the spouse is the sole legatee
or heir) the estate shall be opened as a regular estate. To establish the value of an estate, include only assets held
in the name of a decedent alone and/or an interest held as tenants in common. The value is the fair market value
less any debts of record secured by the property as of the date of death, to the extent that insurance benefits are
not payable to the lien holder or secured party for the secured debt.
Opening the Estate
The original of the Last Will and Testament and Codicil(s), if any, must be filed in the Register of Wills office in the
county the decedent was domiciled.
The Petition for Administration (Form 1112) and Schedule A (Form 1136) are the forms that initiate the opening
of the estate. These documents include the following:
(1) The domicile of the decedent;
(2) Reason the petitioner has a right to be appointed the personal representative;
(3) Whether the decedent died with or without a will (if the decedent died with a will, the original must be included
with the petition);
(4) The eligibility of the petitioner to serve as personal representative; and
(5) The approximate value of the probate assets and debts of the estate.
The List of Interested Persons (Form 1104) may also be filed at this time but must be filed within 20 days after
appointment. The list includes the name, address and relationship to the decedent of persons named to inherit in
the will and heirs at law even if they are not named in the will.
Consent to Appointment of Personal Representative (Form 1118) - See page 5.
Appointment of Resident Agent (Form 1106) - See page 5.
A Nominal Bond (Form 1116) or Bond of Personal Representative (Form 1115) must also be filed with the
petition. The nominal bond may be used if bond is expressly excused by the will or if waived by all interested
persons by signing a Waiver of Bond (Form 1117 or Form 1118). The bond of personal representative is used if the
bond is not expressly excused by the will or by written waiver of all interested persons. An insurance company
must execute the bond form. There are companies that provide service through the Register of Wills office.
Waiver of Bond (Form 1117 or Form 1118) - See page 5.
Waiver of Notice (Form 1101) - See page 5.
The Notice of Appointment (Form 1114) must be filed with the Petition. The notice is published for three
consecutive weeks by the Register of Wills in a newspaper of general circulation that is designated by the personal
representative. This notice informs interested persons of their right to object to the appointment of the personal
representative and the probate of the decedent’s will, if applicable. It also informs creditors of their right to file a
claim against the estate.
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Section 6: Regular Estates
Appointment of Personal Representative
The Register of Wills may admit a will to probate and appoint a personal representative. The duties and powers of
a personal representative commence upon issuance of Letters of Administration. In granting letters the register
observes an order of priority as established in Maryland law. The usual order begins with persons named in a will,
spouse, children, etc., to creditors or any other person. Maryland law has established restrictions on the right to
letters of administration. (See page 6 for a list a partial list of some of the persons excluded).
Upon appointment, the Register of Wills office will issue a schedule of mandatory filing deadlines. As the personal
representative of a regular estate, you are required to make a reasonably diligent effort to ascertain the names
and addresses of the decedent’s creditors, and mail or deliver a notice to those creditors. The personal
representative is also required to file: sufficient copies of the notice of appointment provided to you by the
newspaper for mailing by this office to all interested persons within 20 days of appointment; the Inventory and
Information Report within three months of appointment; and the accounting within nine months of appointment.
Unless a complete and accurate list of interested persons was previously filed, a list of interested persons with
correct addresses (including zip codes) must also be filed within 20 days from the date of appointment.
Inventory (Forms 1122 and 1123)
Within three months after the appointment of a personal representative the personal representative shall prepare
and file an inventory of property owned solely by the decedent and the decedent’s interest in tenants in common
property. Each item is to be listed in reasonably descriptive detail, indicating its gross fair market value as of the
date of death of the decedent, and the type and amount of any mortgage and encumbrance that may exist with
reference to the item. For real and leasehold property, a description sufficient to identify the property must be
given. Appraisals must reflect the actual date of death value. Appraisals containing the word “approximate” or
similar qualifying words are not acceptable.
Instead of obtaining an appraisal by a qualified and disinterested appraiser, the personal representative may
appraise the following:
(1) Motor vehicles may be valued by a personal
representative on the basis of the average value of
the motor vehicle set forth in: (a) The National
Automobile Dealers’ Association’s official used car
guide; or (b) Any substantially similar price guide
designated by the register;
(2) Corporate stocks listed on a national or regional
exchange or over the counter securities;
(3) Debts owed to the decedent including bonds,
notes and loans made by the decedent to others
which remain unpaid;
(4) Bank accounts and money;
(5) IRAs, annuities and life insurance proceeds
payable to the estate or which have no named
beneficiary; and
(6) Real and leasehold property may be valued at:
(a) The full cash value for property tax assessment
purposes, as of the most recent date of finality; or (b)
The contract sales price for the property if the
settlement on the arm’s length contract occurs
within one year after the decedent’s death. The
property tax assessment valuation cannot be used
for farmland, woodland, or national registry land.
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Section 6: Regular Estates
Subject to Court Approval: A petition setting forth in detail the services performed on behalf of the estate
and the amount of compensation requested may be filed with the Register of Wills and include a signed
verification of the facts and a certificate of service to all interested persons.
Consent in Lieu of Court Approval: If the commissions and fees do not exceed the maximum allowable, all
interested persons consent, and those consents are filed with the Register of Wills, a petition is not required.
Payment for a Debt/Fee Generated Prior to Death: May be paid after notice of the proposed payment is
sent to all interested persons, stating the amount and the basis of the payment, pursuant to Md. Rule 6-414.
The estate is solvent and the Last Will and Testament expressly empowers the personal representative to
pay the expenses without an order of the Orphans’ Court; or
The estate is solvent and a Petition and Order for Funeral Expenses is approved by the Orphans’ Court.
Accounts
Within nine (9) months after the appointment of the Personal Representative, they must prepare and file an
Account with the Register of Wills. The account must include the following:
The Register of Wills does not have a form for filing an Account. However, there is a Sample Account, Verification,
and Certificate of Service available on the Registers’ website under the “Publications” tab.
If the Account is not a Final Account, then subsequent Accounts must be filed at intervals of the first to occur of
either six (6) months from the date the prior Account was approved or nine (9) months after the prior Account was
filed. If an Account is due and the value of the estate has not changed since the prior Account, the Personal
Representative may file an “Affidavit in Lieu of Account.”
Personal Representative’s Commissions and Attorney’s Fees
The Personal Representative and/or the attorney for Regular Estates and estates that proceed under Modified
Administration are entitled to reasonable compensation for services rendered in the administration of the estate.
Commissions and fees may be only granted in Small Estates by petition to the Orphans’ Court.
Maryland law provides a maximum total for commissions and fees of 9% of the first $20,000 of value of an estate
($1,800) plus 3.6% of the value of an estate above $20,000. Attorney’s fees may exceed this maximum upon
petition to the Orphans’ Court and for good cause. Any payment out of estate funds made to the Personal
Representative and/or the attorney for the estate are only permitted after the filing of the following, as applicable:
Miscellaneous
Election to Take Statutory Share (Form 1126 or 1126A)
Instead of property left by the Last Will and Testament, the surviving spouse may elect to take a one-third share of
the augmented estate if there is also surviving issue, or a one-half share of the augmented estate if there is no
surviving issue. This is a complex area of estate law that may require consultation with an attorney.
Petition and Order for Funeral Expenses (Form 1130)
The Personal Representative is entitled to expend up to $15,000 for funeral expenses, unless:
1.
2.
12
The beginning balance;
Miscellaneous principal receipts;
Change in value of assets from date of death;
Income;
Disbursements;
Distribution and taxes; and
Balance retained for future accounting (if applicable).
Section 7: Modified Administration
The residual takers are limited to:
The personal representative;
Individuals or entities exempt from inheritance tax in the decedent’s estate under §7-203 (b), (e), and (f)
of the Tax-General Article; and
Trusts under which each person who has a current interest in the trust is an individual or entity exempt
from inheritance tax in the decedent’s estate under §7-203(b), (e), and (f) of the Tax-General Article; and
The estate is solvent and sufficient assets exist to satisfy all testamentary gifts.
A statement representing the continued qualification for modified administration;
Itemized schedule of the decedent’s property and the basis of the valuation;
Itemized schedule of liens, debts, taxes, funeral expenses of the decedent, administration expenses of the
estate, fee, any outstanding costs; and
Schedule setting forth distributive shares of the estate; and any applicable inheritance tax.
Modified Administration is a streamlined procedure available in a regular estate where the decedent died on or
after October 1, 1997. The procedure can only be used if:
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
This procedure eliminates the requirement of an Inventory (Forms 1122 and 1123) and account, requires minimal
supervision by the Register of Wills, and rarely requires any action by the Orphans' Court.
The personal representative must file an Election for Modified Administration (Form 1141) within three months
after the appointment as personal representative. All of the residuary legatees of a testate decedent or the heirs
at law of an intestate decedent must also file a Consent to Election for Modified Administration (Form 1142)
within three months after the appointment.
Instead of an Inventory and account, the personal representative must file a verified Final Report Under Modified
Administration (Form 1143) and, if applicable, a Certificate of Service (Form 1144) no later than ten months
after the date of the appointment. The Final Report must include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Final distribution of the estate must be made within 12 months from the date of appointment. An estate under
modified administration should close not later than 13 months from the date of appointment.
If additional time is needed for the filing of the Final Report, the initial time periods for filing the Final Report and
making distribution may be extended for 90 days on Consent for Extension of Time (Form 1146) signed by the
personal representative and each interested person, and filed within ten months from date of appointment.
For a date of death on or after October 1, 2015, the register may extend the time periods for filing the Final Report
and making distribution for an additional period not to exceed 90 days on the filing of a Request for and Consent
to Further Extend Time to File a Final Report and to Make Distribution in a Modified Administration (Form
1152) signed by the personal representative and each interested person and filed before the expiration of the first
extension period for filing the Final Report.
13
Section 7: Modified Administration
Filing of a timely request for judicial probate;
Filing of a written objection to modified administration by an interested person;
Filing of a withdrawal of the election by a personal representative;
Orphans’ Court, on its own initiative, or for good cause shown by an interested person or by the Register of
Wills; or
Failure to timely file the Final Report and make distribution.
Modified Administration can be revoked by the:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
If modified administration is revoked, the estate must proceed as a regular estate and the personal representative
must file an Inventory and account with the Register of Wills. Notice of the revocation will be mailed to all
interested persons by the Register.
If the personal representative discovers property of the decedent after the time for filing a Final Report Under
Modified Administration, the personal representative shall file a Final Report with respect to the after-discovered
property within 60 days of the discovery of property, and make final distribution of the property within 90 days of
the discovery of the property.
Section 8: Limited Orders
If a will is located in a safe deposit box in the decedent’s name alone, or there are assets titled in the decedent’s
name alone and the amount of any asset is unknown, the only way to access the box or to ascertain the value of
the assets is to file a Petition for a Limited Order (Form 1147) and Schedule C (Form 1148).
A Limited Order to Locate the Will (Form 1149) authorizes the financial institution to enter the safe deposit box
in the presence of the Register of Wills or the Register’s authorized deputy for the sole purpose of locating the will
for delivery to the Register of Wills office.
A Limited Order to Locate Assets (Form 1150) authorizes named financial institutions to disclose the values of
assets titled in the sole name of the decedent. This Order will not authorize transfer of any assets. The limited
order to locate assets is not necessary if a determination can be made that the estate will be opened as a regular
estate. The issuance of this order is intended for the use of the person with priority to serve as personal
representative.
The Register of Wills may charge a fee for affixing a seal to a Limited Order. Note that no Letters of
Administration will be issued to the petitioner.
14
Section 9: Inheritance Tax
A grandparent;
A parent;
A spouse or registered domestic partner (eff. 10/1/23) of the decedent;
A child of the decedent or a lineal descendent of a child of the decedent;
A spouse of a child of the decedent or a spouse of a lineal descendant of a child of the decedent;
A surviving spouse of a deceased child of the decedent or of a deceased lineal descendant of a child of the
decedent who was married to the child or lineal descendant of the child at the time of the child’s or lineal
descendant’s death;
A sibling of the decedent; or
A corporation, partnership, or limited liability company if all of its stockholders, partners, or members consist
of individuals specified in items (1) through (7) above.
Property that passes to any one person if the total value does not exceed $1,000;
Property that passes to a charitable organization that is exempt from tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code or certain transfers which are deductible under Section 2055 of the Internal Revenue
Code in accordance with Tax - General §7-203(e);
A life insurance policy that is payable to a named beneficiary (other than the estate);
Property not in excess of $500 that passes from a decedent under a will for grave maintenance;
Holocaust monies (contact the Register of Wills for details); and
Income on probate assets – For decedents dying on or after January 1, 1998, the inheritance tax does not
apply to the receipt of property that is income, including gains and losses, accrued on probate assets after
the date of death of the decedent; and
Joint primary residence that passes from a decedent to or for the use of a “domestic partner” of a decedent
within the meaning of section 6-101(a) of the Health-General Article.
An inheritance tax is imposed on the right to receive property passing from a decedent that has a taxable situs in
the State of Maryland.
Inheritance tax may be collected on (the net value of) all probate property reported in a regular estate and all non-
probate property reportable on the Information Report or Application to Fix Inheritance Tax passing to individuals
or entities not exempt from inheritance tax under § 7-203 of the Tax-General Article, regardless of the type of
estate proceeding, and including property passing from a trust. (No inheritance tax is collected on probate
property reported in a small estate).
For decedents dying on or after July 1, 2010, inheritance tax does not apply to the receipt of property that passes
from the decedent for the use of:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
NOTE: (for inheritance tax purposes) “Child” includes a stepchild or former stepchild. “Parent” includes a
stepparent or former stepparent. “Surviving spouse” means a surviving spouse who has not remarried.
For decedents dying on or after July 1, 2010, collateral inheritance tax at the rate of 10% applies to property of the
decedent that passes to anyone other than those persons listed in (1) through (8) above.
Property exempted from inheritance tax includes the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
15
Section 9: Inheritance Tax
A list of the assets,
A list of expenses paid or to be paid from the trust,
The names and addresses of the trustees,
The dates of birth of all life tenants, and
The relationship to the decedent of all beneficiaries.
For decedents dying prior to July 1, 2010, contact the Register of Wills office for the appropriate rate of inheritance
tax that was in effect at the date of death.
Inheritance tax on probate property is due when the personal representative accounts for the distribution of the
taxable property in an accounting.
Inheritance tax on non-probate property is due when the Register of Wills assesses and bills for the amount based
on the taxable property reported on the Information Report or the Application to Fix Inheritance Tax. (The tax is
due on the clear fair market value as of the date of transfer or the date of death, whichever is applicable).
Evidence of date of death balances (appraisals when necessary), evidence of outstanding liens on the property
(such as a mortgage), and the name, address and relationship to the decedent of each beneficiary must be
provided.
When an interest in a trust is subject to inheritance tax, in addition to a copy of the trust instrument, the following
may be required:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Trust documents are for review purposes only. The documents will not be made public record and will be
shredded, or returned upon request.
16
Section 10: Distribution
a spouse or registered domestic partner and no children - the spouse or registered domestic partner
receives the entire net estate
a spouse or registered domestic partner and children, at least one of whom is a minor - the spouse or
registered domestic partner receives one half of the net estate and the children divide the remaining one half
equally*
a spouse or registered domestic partner and children, all of whom are adults and are children of both the
spouse or registered domestic partner and the decedent - the spouse or registered domestic partner
receives the entire net estate
a spouse or registered domestic partner and children, all of whom are adults but at least one is not a child of
both the spouse or registered domestic partner and the decedent - the spouse or registered domestic
partner receives the first $100,000 plus one half of the remaining net estate, and the children divide the
remaining one half equally*
children only - the children divide net estate equally*
surviving parent(s) only - parent or parents receive the entire estate
surviving sibling(s) only - siblings divide net estate equally*
grandparents without any other heirs listed above - the grandparents divide net estate equally (if all
grandparents deceased, to issue of the grandparents)
stepchildren without any other heirs listed above - stepchildren divide net estate equally
no living heirs or stepchildren - the entire net estate passes to the Board of Education in the county in which
the estate is opened, or to the Department of Health if the decedent received long term care benefits under
the Maryland Medical Assistance Program
If the decedent had a will, the personal representative must distribute the property according to the provisions in
the probated will.
A surviving spouse or registered domestic partner is entitled to receive distribution of a family allowance in the
amount of $10,000. An allowance of $5,000 must be paid for the use of each unmarried minor child (under the age
of 18). (Contact the Register of Wills for family allowances applicable for a date of death prior to October 1, 2013).
Without court approval or intervention, a surviving spouse may elect to take their statutory share instead of the
property left to them by will. This is known as the surviving spouse's "elective share," the calculation of which is
provided for in Maryland law. There are time limitations on filing an election and other issues to consider, so a
surviving spouse who is thinking about filing an election should consider consulting with an attorney.
If the decedent did not have a will, the personal representative must distribute the net estate to the heirs in the
order prescribed by Maryland law. The order of distribution is described opposite.
ORDER OF DISTRIBUTION OF NET INTESTATE ESTATE
If the decedent is survived by:
*The share of a deceased heir in these categories passes to the issue of the deceased heir.
17
Section 11: Fees
A probate fee is charged for the administrative processing of the estate. This fee is based on the total gross
estate, as stated in the tables below. There may also be charges for additional services including, but not limited
to, the following: additional Letters of Administration; plain, certified or exemplified copies; entering claims; and
entering caveat papers.
18
There is no fee for filing a petition to open a small estate in Maryland.
SMALL ESTATE FEES
The Fee Is:
$0
$100
$200
$1,000
$2,000
$5,000
$7,500
$10,000
$10,000 plus .02% of excess
over $10,000,000
But No More Than
$50,000
$100,000
$500,000
$1,000,000
$2,500,000
$5,000,000
$7,500,000
$10,000,000
---
If The Value Of The Estate
Is At Least
---
$50,000
$100,000
$500,000
$1,000,000
$2,500,000
$5,000,000
$7,500,000
$10,000,000
REGULAR AND MODIFIED ESTATE FEES
Note: A detailed list of all fees charged by the Register of Wills is available on the Registers’ website at
https://registers.maryland.gov.
Section 12: Important Deadlines
Small Estate
1. If the decedent had a will, the custodian of the original document must file it with the Register of Wills promptly
after the date of death.
2. The Petition for Probate, Schedule B and all required papers should be filed with the Register of Wills promptly
after the date of death.
3. The Notice of Appointment for a Small Estate must be filed if there are remaining assets after payment or
deduction of funeral expenses, family allowance, and Register's fee.
4. The Information Report must be filed within three months after date of appointment.
Regular Estate
1. If the decedent had a will, the custodian of the original document must file it with the Register of Wills promptly
after the date of death.
2. The Petition for Probate, Schedule A and all required papers should be filed with the Register of Wills promptly
after the date of death.
3. The List of Interested Persons must be filed either with the Petition for Probate or within 20 days after
appointment of personal representative.
4. The Inventory and Information Report must be filed within three months after appointment of the personal
representative.
5. The first account must be filed within nine months after appointment of the personal representative.
6. If subsequent accounts are necessary, they must be filed at intervals of the earlier of six months after the prior
account was approved, or nine months after the prior account was filed.
Modified Administration
1. The Election for Modified Administration and consent forms from all residuary legatees/heirs must be filed
within three months after date of appointment of personal representative in a regular estate.
2. The Information Report must be filed within three months after date of appointment.
3. The Final Report must be filed within ten months after date of appointment unless an extension was approved.
4. Inheritance taxes (if applicable), probate fee, and any additional costs are due at the time the Final Report is
filed.
5. Complete and final distribution must be made within twelve months from date of appointment, unless an
extension was approved.
19
The personal representative of an estate has a fiduciary obligation to settle the estate and distribute the
assets as promptly as possible, in accordance with the terms of the will or the laws of intestacy.
The position of personal representative is one of confidence, trust and good faith. It is held to the highest
standard of care acknowledged by the law. The personal representative may incur personal liability if they fail
to meet this standard.
Section 13: Responsibilities of a Personal
Representative
Section 14: Powers & Duties of a Personal
Representative
The personal representative may exercise the authority granted to them by statute or in the will, without approval
of the court.
These powers include: receiving and holding assets, depositing funds, satisfying charitable pledges made by the
decedent, paying or compromising claims, paying funeral expenses and other debts or expenses, paying taxes,
insuring property, investing or selling property, continuing a business, performing contracts entered into by the
decedent, employing specialists to advise or assist, and making partial or final distributions during the
administration of the estate.
Other powers may be granted to the personal representative by the court upon written request.
In addition to the above powers, the personal representative has a statutory obligation to timely file all required
documents, comply with all court orders, and give proper notice to interested persons when necessary.
20
Section 15: Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
What is a will?
A will is a written document, legally executed, which directs disposition of one’s property after death. A will only
controls those assets that are in the name of the decedent alone or as tenants in common. It has to be in writing,
signed by the testator (person making the will), and attested and signed by two or more credible witnesses in the
presence of the testator. It becomes effective upon the death of the testator and is probated. If you have a will
prepared outside of Maryland and then move into Maryland, it is valid if it is executed in accordance with the laws
of the state in which it was prepared. However, if you move to another state, check with its Register of Wills or
Clerk in the Probate Division of your new jurisdiction to determine if your will prepared in Maryland is valid. Laws
vary in different states.
Where should I keep my will?
Once a will is prepared, signed and witnessed properly, be sure to keep it in a safe place where it cannot be lost,
stolen or misplaced. A safe deposit box is a secure place, provided someone is aware of its location. If the safe
deposit box is in your name only, upon your death it is necessary for a deputy from the Register of Wills office to
be present at the opening of the safe deposit box and removal of the will for filing with the Register of Wills.
You may also file your will with the Register of Wills for safekeeping for a fee of $5.00. An original will brought to
the Register of Wills for safekeeping will be sealed in an envelope and you will be asked to print your name,
address, and last four digits of your Social Security Number on the space provided on the envelope. During your
lifetime, the will you deposited in the Register of Wills office cannot be opened or released to anyone but you or a
person authorized by you in writing to receive it. If you need to make a copy of the will once it has been filed, you
may visit the Register of Wills, who will have you witness it being opened, copied, then re-sealed in a new
envelope. You should always make sure that the person you have named as your personal representative is made
aware of the location of your will.
21
Section 15: Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
What should I do with a will after a person dies?
After the death of a person, the person having custody of the will should present the will to the Register of Wills. If
the person having possession of the will is the nominated personal representative, they should call the office prior
to arrival to determine if additional forms and documents may be required. You may also schedule an appointment
with a deputy in order to obtain faster service.
A custodian who willfully fails or refuses to deliver a will to the register after being informed of the death of the
testator is liable to a person aggrieved for the damages sustained by reason of the failure or refusal.
Does a spouse have the right to renounce a will?
Instead of property left to him or her by a will or if omitted by a will, the surviving spouse may elect to take what is
known as their "elective share" of the "augmented estate" of the decedent. Maryland law determines which assets
of the decedent are includable in their "augmented estate," which is then used to calculate the spouse's share.
This is a relatively new and complex aspect of Maryland law, so a surviving spouse who is thinking about filing an
election should consider consulting with an attorney.
The election by a surviving spouse to take an elective share shall be made within the later of: nine months after
the date of the decedent’s death; or six months after the first appointment of a personal representative under a
will. The court may extend the time for election, before its expiration, for a period not to exceed three months at a
time, upon notice given to the personal representative and for good cause shown.
What is a caveat?
A caveat of a will is the challenge of the validity of any instrument purporting to be the decedent’s will or codicil,
whether or not offered for or admitted to probate. A caveat may be filed by an heir of the decedent or a legatee in
any instrument purporting to be a will or codicil of the decedent. It requires a judicial hearing with notice being
sent to all interested persons. Fees must be paid when the petition is filed. If a personal representative has been
appointed prior to the petition to caveat being filed, the appointment of the personal representative is reduced to
that of a special administrator until a determination as to the validity of the will is made by the court.
The individual challenging the will or codicil, known as the "caveator," may petition the Orphans' Court to transmit
the caveat to the Circuit Court, where they are entitled by law to a bench trial (before a judge) or a civil jury trial.
Is an estate always required?
If a person dies owning any property in their name alone or as tenants in common it is necessary to open an
estate with the Register of Wills office. The value of the assets in the name of the decedent alone or a tenant in
common determines the type of estate that is required. (See Small Estate, Regular Estate, and Modified
Administration sections of this book for further information).
If an estate is not required do I still have to file the will?
If the decedent did not have any property in their name alone or as a tenant in common, you are still required to
file the will with the Register of Wills office in the county in which the decedent was domiciled at the time of
death.
22
Section 15: Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Fees due to the register;
Costs and expenses of administration;
Funeral expenses not to exceed $15,000 (applicable for estates opened on or after October 1, 2015);
Compensation of personal representative in a regular estate, legal services and commissions of licensed real
estate broker;
Family allowance – Spouse or registered domestic partner $10,000; each minor child of the decedent $5,000
(contact the Register of Wills for the family allowance applicable for a date of death prior to October 1, 2013);
Taxes due by the decedent;
Reasonable medical, hospital, and nursing expenses of the last illness of the decedent;
Rent payable by the decedent for not more than three months in arrears;
Wages, salaries or commission for services performed for the decedent within three months prior to death of
the decedent;
Public assistance claims; and
All other claims
Who has priority to be paid if there are insufficient assets?
The personal representative shall make payment in the following order if the assets of the estate are insufficient
to pay all claims in full:
A preference shall not be given in the payment of a claim over another claim of the same class. However, claims
filed by the Department of Health receive a priority over all other claims of the same class. (See § 8-105 of the
Estates and Trusts Article.)
The Federal Insolvency Statute, 31 U.S.C. §3713, gives absolute priority for debts due to the United States, such as
taxes due to the IRS.
What is a resident agent and what are the responsibilities?
A nonresident of the State does not qualify to be appointed personal representative unless on file with the Register
of Wills office is an irrevocable designation by the nonresident of an appropriate person who resides in the State.
That person, upon accepting the appointment and signing a form with their address, then becomes the resident
agent. The only responsibility of the resident agent is to accept service of process in the same manner and with
the effect as if it were served personally in the State on the nonresident.
REGISTER OF WILLS DIRECTORY
Allegany County
Hon. Mary Beth Pirolozzi
59 Prospect Square, 1st Floor
Cumberland, MD 21502
301.724.3760
Anne Arundel County
Hon. Erica Griswold
2011 E. Commerce Park Drive
Annapolis, MD 21401
410.222.1430
Baltimore City
Hon. Belinda K. Conaway
Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert St.
Baltimore, MD 21202
410.752.5131
Baltimore County
Hon. Alexis Burrell-Rohde
401 Bosley Avenue, Mail Stop 3507
Towson, MD 21204
410.887.6680
Calvert County
Hon. Margaret H. Phipps
175 Main Street
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
410.535.0121
Caroline County
Hon. James L. Phelps
109 Market Street, Room 119
Denton, MD 21629
410.479.0717
Carroll County
Hon. Paul G. Zimmermann
55 N. Court Street, Room 124
Westminster, MD 21157
410.848.2586
Cecil County
Hon. Allyn Nickle
129 E. Main Street, Room 102
Elkton, MD 21921
410.996.5330
Charles County
Hon. Loraine D. Hennessy
11 Washington Ave., P.O. Box 3080
La Plata, MD 20646
301.932.3345
Dorchester County
Hon. Teresa D. Wheatley
206 High Street, P.O. Box 263
Cambridge, MD 21613
410.228.4181
Frederick County
Hon. Mary Rolle
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301.600.6565
Garrett County
Hon. Rita L. Watson
313 East Alder Street, Room 103
Oakland, MD 21550
301.334.1999
Harford County
Hon. Derek Hopkins
18 Office Street, First Floor
Bel Air, MD 21014
410.638.3275
Howard County
Hon. Byron E. Macfarlane
9250 Judicial Way, Suite 1100
Ellicott City, MD 21043
410.313.2133
Kent County
Hon. Kristi Osborn
103 North Cross Street
Chestertown, MD 21620
410.778.7463
Montgomery County
Hon. Joseph M. Griffin
50 Maryland Ave., North Tower 3220
Rockville, MD 20850
240.777.9600
Prince George's County
Hon. Cereta A. Lee
14735 Main Street, Room D4001
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
301.952.3250
Queen Anne's County
Hon. Laura Nan Cook
107 N. Liberty Street, P.O. Box 59
Centreville, MD 21617
410.758.0585
St. Mary's County
Hon. Phyllis A. Superior
41605 Courthouse Dr., P.O. Box 602
Leonardtown, MD 20650
301.475.5566
Somerset County
Hon. Keith B. Ward
30512 Prince William Street
Princess Anne, MD 21853
410.651.1696
Talbot County
Hon. Patricia E. Campen
11 N. Washington Street, Suite 14
Easton, MD 21601
410.770.6700
Washington County
Hon. Lacy M. Flook
100 W. Washington St., Suite 3400
Hagerstown, MD 21740
301.739.3612
Wicomico County
Hon. Karen A. Lemon
101 N. Division Street, Room 102
Salisbury, MD 21803
410.543.6635
Worcester County
Hon. Terri Westcott
One West Market St., Room 102
Snow Hill, MD 21863
410.632.1529