What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will specifies distribution after death and goes through probate. A trust holds assets and transfers them without probate. Trusts offer privacy, faster distribution, and creditor protection. Many families benefit from both.

How much does estate planning cost in Southern Maryland?

SoMD Estate Planning offers flat-fee pricing. Cost depends on complexity. Contact us to speak with Kathryn Batey for a specific quote.

Estate Planning FAQs

Q: Do I need an estate plan if I don't have a lot of money?

Yes. If you have children, own a home, have a bank account or retirement savings, or want to control medical care decisions, you need a plan. Without one, Maryland law decides.

Q: What happens if I die without a will in Maryland?

Maryland intestacy law determines distribution. Spouse and children inherit by formula that may not match your wishes. No surviving family means the state takes your assets.

Q: What is an advanced medical directive?

An advanced medical directive combines a living will and healthcare power of attorney. It documents medical treatment preferences and designates a healthcare decision-maker.

Q: What is a power of attorney and do I need one?

A power of attorney authorizes someone to act on your behalf for financial and legal matters. A durable POA remains effective if incapacitated. Without one, family needs an expensive court process.

Q: Can I do my estate plan online or remotely?

Yes. SoMD Estate Planning offers both in-person meetings at our White Plains and Oxon Hill offices, plus virtual consultations via secure video conference.

Q: How often should I update my estate plan?

Every 3-5 years, or after major life events: marriage, divorce, birth, death of beneficiary, asset changes, move to new state.

Q: What documents are included in a basic estate plan?

A will, advanced medical directive (living will + healthcare POA), financial power of attorney, and sometimes a revocable living trust.

At SoMD Estate Planning, we understand that estate planning can feel overwhelming. Below you will find answers to the most common questions our clients ask. If you have additional questions, call us at (301) 818-0389 to speak with Kathryn Batey.

What is estate planning?

Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and distribution of your assets during your lifetime and after death. A comprehensive estate plan typically includes a Will, Advanced Medical Directive, and Power of Attorney. The goal is to ensure that your wishes are honored, your family is provided for, and the transfer of your assets happens as smoothly as possible.

Do I need an estate plan if I don’t have a lot of money?

Yes. Estate planning is not just for the wealthy. If you have children, own a home, have a bank account or retirement savings, or want to control medical care decisions, you need a plan. Without one, Maryland law determines how your assets are distributed, who raises your children, and who makes medical decisions on your behalf. An estate plan puts you in control of these critical decisions regardless of the size of your estate.

How much does estate planning cost at SoMD Estate Planning?

We offer a straightforward flat-fee package: $1,500 per household for a Will, Advanced Medical Directive, and Power of Attorney. This covers an individual or a married couple. There are no hourly rates or hidden fees — you’ll know your exact cost before we begin.

What happens if I die without a will in Maryland?

If you die without a will in Maryland, your assets are distributed according to the state’s intestacy laws under the Estates and Trusts Article of the Maryland Code. This means your spouse and children inherit based on a statutory formula that may not match your wishes. If you have no surviving family members, the state of Maryland takes your assets entirely. Additionally, the court will appoint a guardian for your minor children without any input from you.

What is an advanced medical directive?

An advanced medical directive is a legal document that combines a living will and a healthcare power of attorney. The living will portion documents your preferences for medical treatment in situations where you cannot communicate — such as whether you want life-sustaining treatment, tube feeding, or other interventions. The healthcare power of attorney portion designates a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf. Learn more about advanced medical directives.

What is a power of attorney and do I need one?

A power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes someone you trust to act on your behalf for financial and legal matters. A durable power of attorney remains effective even if you become mentally incapacitated — which is exactly when you need it most. Without a durable power of attorney, your family would need to petition the court for guardianship or conservatorship, a process that is expensive and time-consuming. Learn more about power of attorney in Maryland.

Can I do my estate plan online or remotely?

Yes, SoMD Estate Planning offers both in-person and remote options. You can visit us at our White Plains office (10665 Stanhaven Place, Suite 3116, White Plains, MD 20695) or our Oxon Hill office (137 National Plaza, Suite 300, Oxon Hill, MD 20745). We also offer virtual consultations via secure video conference, so you can work with attorney Kathryn Batey from the comfort of your home.

How often should I update my estate plan?

You should review your estate plan every three to five years, or after any major life event. Major life events include marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, the death of a beneficiary or executor, significant changes in your assets, purchasing or selling property, moving to a new state, retirement, and major changes in health. Regular review ensures your plan reflects your current wishes and circumstances.

What documents are included in a basic estate plan?

A basic estate plan typically includes a last will and testament, an advanced medical directive (which combines a living will and healthcare power of attorney), and a financial power of attorney. Depending on your family situation and assets, you may also benefit from a revocable living trust and guardianship designations for minor children.

Have More Questions?

Call SoMD Estate Planning at (301) 818-0389 to speak with Kathryn Batey. Attorney Kathryn Batey is here to answer your questions and help you create an estate plan that protects your family.