You can change your will anytime you want before you die. This includes the ability to revoke your own will. If you revoke a will without creating a new one, you will be treated like you never had a will and the rules of intestacy will govern. (What Happens If I Die Without a Will?) It’s even possible for an…
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Power of Attorney
A power of attorney is a good idea for nearly everyone in Maryland. With one, you can name a person to manage your financial affairs in case you become disabled. But what happens if you don’t have a power of attorney? If you become disabled, you may need someone else to manage your finances. Without a valid power of attorney,…
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Will in Maryland
If you want to know the importance of having a will, it helps to know what happens if you die without one. Maryland has a default set of rules (called intestacy statutes) that apply to individuals who die without a will (called dying intestate) in Maryland. Different states have different default rules. Who will inherit the property of the decedent (the…
How to Choose an Agent for Your Power of Attorney
A power of attorney lets you select another person that can act on your behalf to manage your property and money. In Maryland, the person to whom you are giving this power is called your agent (other places might call this person an “attorney-in-fact” or “proxy). Here are some considerations in selecting your agent. The powers given to your agent are…
How to Choose a Health Care Agent
Choosing the right health care agent is the centerpiece to an effective advance directive. Your health care agent makes medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to make them yourself. Similar to choosing a personal representative, your health care agent should be someone you trust and who understands your values. In Maryland, your health care agent must be at…