Maryland Estate Planning
Get your own affairs in order in Maryland, for yourself or an aging parent. Compare the documents most adults need (a will, a power of attorney, and a healthcare directive), decide whether you need a trust, and see how to keep your estate out of probate.
Which document do I need?
The core documents at a glance. Each row links to its Maryland guide.
- Will
- Maryland will requirements: you must be 18 and legally competent, sign a written will before two credible witnesses, plus holographic and revocation rules. Read the guide
- Living trust
- How a Maryland revocable living trust works under the Maryland Trust Act: creating and funding it, and the pour-over will that catches what you miss. Read the guide
- Power of attorney
- Maryland power of attorney basics: durable by default, the two-witness-plus-notary signing rule, hot powers you must initial, and how it ends at death. Read the guide
- Healthcare directive
- How a Maryland advance directive works: name a health care agent, set living-will wishes, sign before two witnesses, plus the surrogate list and MOLST. Read the guide
Maryland estate planning guides
Maryland Estate Planning Basics
Maryland estate planning basics: the will, power of attorney, advance directive, and living trust adults need, plus the dual estate and inheritance tax.
Maryland Will Requirements
Maryland will requirements: you must be 18 and legally competent, sign a written will before two credible witnesses, plus holographic and revocation rules.
Maryland Power of Attorney
Maryland power of attorney basics: durable by default, the two-witness-plus-notary signing rule, hot powers you must initial, and how it ends at death.
Maryland Advance Directive
How a Maryland advance directive works: name a health care agent, set living-will wishes, sign before two witnesses, plus the surrogate list and MOLST.
Maryland Guardianship Planning
A Maryland guardianship plan starts with a durable power of attorney and advance directive. See how guardianship of a minor or disabled adult works.
Maryland Revocable Living Trust
How a Maryland revocable living trust works under the Maryland Trust Act: creating and funding it, and the pour-over will that catches what you miss.
Maryland Trust Administration
How a successor trustee settles a Maryland revocable living trust after the settlor dies under the Maryland Trust Act (Est. & Trusts Title 14.5).
Not sure what you need in Maryland?
Answer a few questions and we'll tell you which estate planning documents to set up first.
Information current as of 2026-06-18
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.