Probate Law -nope

Estate Administration

At the Law Office of Michael J. Stelmack, we provide trusted legal counsel and representation in matters of estate administration throughout the state of Maryland. Attorney Michael J. Stelmack is frequently called upon by Marylands Orphans’ Courts to serve as a court-appointed successor personal representative or successor guardian.

His experience ensures efficient and compliant estate administration, even in complex or contested situations.

What is Estate Administration?

Estate administration is the legal process by which a deceased person’s assets are gathered, managed, and distributed to their rightful beneficiaries. This may occur through:

Joint ownership

Pay-on-death accounts

Named beneficiaries on insurance and retirement accounts

Probate proceedings

It also includes the payment of any applicable Maryland and federal estate taxes.

Probate in Maryland

Probate is a key aspect of estate administration. It begins when a decedent’s will is filed with the local Register of Wills, and the named personal representative seeks appointment. If no will exists, an interested person—typically a relative—may petition to be appointed and must follow Maryland’s laws of intestacy, which dictate how the estate is to be distributed.

Once appointed, the personal representative is responsible for managing, administering, and distributing the estate’s probate assets in accordance with Maryland law.

Our Services

We offer comprehensive legal support to personal representatives, including:

Preparing and filing probate petitions

Preparing and submitting the estate inventory

Managing creditor claims and liabilities

Determining and paying Maryland inheritance taxes

Coordinating with accountants for fiduciary income tax and estate tax filings

Preparing and filing accountings with the orphans’ court

Overseeing the payment of administrative expenses

Managing the sale or distribution of the decedent’s home and other assets

Ensuring proper distribution to heirs and legatees

Whether you are navigating probate for the first time or dealing with a complex estate, the Law Office of Michael J. Stelmack provides experienced guidance every step of the way.