Upper Marlboro, MD asked in Estate Planning and Probate for Maryland

Q: A copy of my granddads will was filed in md leaving every thing to me and my sister. Is it valid. It was witnessed by 2

It was filed by his ex girlfriend who stole it from his house. He had it signed and witnessed by two people on 20006. Is it legal

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1 Lawyer Answer
Mark Oakley
Mark Oakley
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Rockville, MD
  • Licensed in Maryland

A: Well, if it was signed by your grandfather, in the presence of two witnesses, who also signed the will in their and his presence, then the signature requirements of the law are satisfied for making a valid will. Whether the document as a whole makes a valid will cannot be determined by the facts provided. You are entitled to a copy of the will, and estates are public files, so you can request a copy to review or to take to a lawyer to review. If you meet the qualifications for being appointed personal representative of the estate, you can petition to be appointed over his ex-girlfriend rather than let her manage the estate assets. Blood relatives have priority of appointment over non-blood relatives, unless the will specifically names her to be the personal representative.

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