What does the
Register of Wills do?

 

The Office of Register of Wills is a public office established under the Constitution of the State of Maryland. The Constitution provides for a Register from each county and the City of Baltimore. Each Register is elected by qualified voters for a four-year term of office at the time of the gubernatorial election. The Register of Wills is responsible for appointing personal representatives to administer decedents’ estates and for overseeing the proper and timely administration of these proceedings. We also perform the following duties:

  • assist and advise the public in the preparation of all required forms
  • maintain and preserve the permanent record of all proceedings
  • serve as the Clerk to the Orphans’ Court
  • track estates and refer delinquent matters to the Court
  • determine and collect inheritance taxes and probate fees/court costs
  • audit accounts of personal representatives and guardians
  • mail various notices and court orders to interested persons
  •  verify compliance with court orders

*As a service we provide safekeeping for wills of living persons.

 

The Importance of Wills and Estate Planning

  •   Appointment of trusted fiduciaries (personal representatives, trustees   and guardians)
  •   Achieve maximum savings of administrative costs and death taxes
  •   Dispose of your estate according to your wishes
  •   Avoid possible family disputes

 

Link to Washington County Register of Wills here:

 

COVID-19

Mr. Malott retooled the process of estate administration due to COVID 19.  He continues to work long hours to ensure families needs are met.  COVID- 19 has substantially increased the number of estates opened each month and Jason has guided his staff to work effectively and efficiently while altering and creating new procedures to ensure the safety of all customers. He continues to seek opportunities to improve the experience for his customers. 

 

 

 

 

 

TwitterFacebookLinkedInEmail