A: By ensuring that you own nothing in your own name at death. Sometimes
this is accomplished by means of a trust.
A: There are many types of trusts for different purposes. You may not need a
trust, but you may find a trust helpful if any of the following apply:
a) you have minor children
b) you are in a second marriage or have children from an earlier marriage
c) you have assets significant enough to trigger inheritance taxes
d) you have a beneficiary with special needs
e) you want to preserve property (like a home) and specify how it is used after
your death
Q: My mom (or dad) is suffering from advanced dementia -
how do I get the power to legally manage her (his) affairs?
A: The easiest way is by a properly prepared Power of Attorney made
while the now disabled person was still competent. If that didn't happen
guardianship may be necessary.
A: Maryland law specifies how property is divided if you die without a will.
It surprises some people to learn that if a spouse has either parents or children
still living, persons besides the spouse may be entitled to half of the property
(after a modest spousal allowance).