BLOGS

The Annual Beneficiary Checkup: How “Non-Probate” Assets Can Undermine Your Maryland Estate Plan

Beneficiary Review – Quick FAQ for Maryland Clients

A properly drafted and recorded “life estate deed” (often called a “remainder deed” in everyday conversation) is designed to transfer Maryland real property outside of the probate process.

Family real property—such as a primary residence, vacation home, or inherited land—often represents both significant financial value and deep personal meaning.

Imagine “Sarah” and “John” live in Maryland and are married. John falls behind on debts and decides to file for bankruptcy under chapter 7 or chapter 13 of the federal Bankruptcy Code. Sarah doesn’t file. What will happen to her?

Filing for bankruptcy can provide a powerful financial reset for Maryland residents facing overwhelming debt.  But what if you’ve already filed once?  Can you do it again? The short answer is yes, you can file for bankruptcy multiple times in Maryland

Let’s be honest—just saying the word “bankruptcy” can feel overwhelming. If you’re living in Maryland and struggling to keep up with debt, you may have heard of Chapter 13 bankruptcy. It’s not a magic wand that makes debt disappear overnight, but it can give you the breathing room you need to get back on track—without losing your home or car.

Filing for bankruptcy is never an easy decision, but for many Maryland residents struggling with debt, Chapter 7 bankruptcy provides a path to a fresh start. This guide walks you through the process of filing Chapter 7 in Maryland, so you understand what to expect from beginning to end.