Q: In the state of Maryland is there a time limit on distribution of funds to the parties in the will?
A:
Not exactly. A personal representative has a duty to act promptly, but what this means will vary with the circumstances. Typically it will take a minimum of 6 months to process a probate estate and more typically 9-18 months. To understand what is reasonable in a particular estate will depend on a number of factors: does the estate include any real property or business interests? how quickly can assets be liquidated? is the estate solvent? are there any claims to be resolved or litigated? A very simple estate with cash assets and no creditors might wrap up in 6 months while a complicated estate could take many years. In some cases, an estate can make interim disbursements before making the final distribution.
If you have questions about a specific estate you may wish to consult with a lawyer.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
