In Havre De Grace, Maryland, probate is the process in which a court validates or voids a will.

As part of the probate procedure, the court in Havre De Grace, Maryland will determine the validity of the will, inventory the decedent's assets and debts, then, assuming everything is found to be in order, distribute the estate according to the will.

The executor of the estate is frequently named in the will. If not, the probate court in Havre De Grace, Maryland will name will appoint a person to serve as executor. This is typically the person who stands to inherit the most under the will.

The executor is the person who initiates probate proceedings. The person who stands to inherit the most from the will is typically appointed the executor, because they will have the most incentive to help the process go as quickly as possible, so they can get their inheritance.

Duties of the Executor in Havre De Grace, Maryland

The executor has many duties concerning the will. First of all, they have to actually initiate the probate proceedings with the court, and this procedure has to be completed before the will takes effect.

Executors must also alert anyone with an interest in the will of the death of the decedent. Persons with an interest in the outcome of probate are those who are named in the will, or anyone who would likely inherit if the will is invalidated (close relatives, for the most part).

Executors are also obliged to make available an accounting of the testator's debts and assets, so their affairs can be wound up, along with a list of everyone who is named in the will, or otherwise stands to inherit.

Moreover, the executor is obliged to take a leading role in establishing the validity of the will. The executor obviously has an incentive to see the process through, since they cannot inherit until probate is complete.

How Can A Havre De Grace, Maryland Lawyer Help?

Because of the difficulties inherent in the probate process, it is a good idea to hire an efficient Havre De Grace, Maryland probate lawyer, particularly for the executors of estates.