Estate planning involves planning for your financial and medical needs during your lifetime, particularly if you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions for yourself.
At Kahan Law, P.C., we help individuals and families create clear, thoughtful plans that protect their assets, honor their wishes, and reduce uncertainty for loved ones. As you consider your own planning needs, it’s important to ask whether you have put the right documents and protections in place for yourself and your family.
Estate Planning
Estate planning allows you to maintain control over important decisions, rather than leaving those decisions to state law. A comprehensive estate plan can address how your property is distributed, who is responsible for carrying out your wishes, and how your financial and medical decisions are handled if you are unable to manage them yourself.
We work with clients to develop estate plans that reflect their personal goals and family circumstances, with clear explanations at every step of the process.
How Property Is Distributed After Death
There are several common ways property may be distributed after a person’s death. Understanding these options is an important part of effective estate planning.
Joint Ownership
Property owned jointly typically passes automatically to the surviving joint owner. For example, if two people own a home as joint tenants and one dies, the surviving owner becomes the sole owner of the property.
Named Beneficiaries
Some assets pass directly to a named beneficiary. Life insurance policies and certain financial accounts such as retirement accounts typically allow you to name a beneficiary who will receive the asset automatically upon your death.
Trusts
Property held in a revocable trust is distributed according to the terms of the trust document. Trusts can offer flexibility, control, and additional planning benefits depending on your goals.
Wills
A will directs how property not otherwise transferred through joint ownership, beneficiary designations, or trusts will be distributed. A properly drafted will ensures your wishes are clearly stated and legally enforceable.
If you die without a valid will, you are considered to have died intestate. In that case, Maryland law determines how your property is distributed, which may not align with your personal preferences or family needs.
Estate Administration and Probate
After a loved one passes away, certain legal and administrative steps must be completed, whether or not a will exists. This process, commonly referred to as probate, includes filing required documents, managing deadlines, and ensuring assets are distributed properly.
We assist executors, personal representatives, and family members with estate administration and probate matters, including:
- Court filings and probate guidance
- Coordination with the Register of Wills
- Assistance with estate settlement and asset distribution
- Ongoing legal support throughout the process
Our goal is to help clients navigate estate administration with clarity and confidence while minimizing unnecessary stress during a difficult time.
Contact Kahan Law, P.C. to schedule a consultation and discuss your estate planning or estate administration needs.