Probate & Estate Litigation in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with legal battles over their estate only adds to the stress. If you are facing disputes over a will, trust, or inheritance, you do not have to go through it alone.
At Colbert Law Center, we fight for your rights and help you create a comprehensive estate plan using a variety of tools, including the following:
While online forms exist for many estate planning documents, we always recommend that you work with an experienced attorney to create your estate plan or review your documents.
We can help you understand the types of documents you need and make sure that those documents accurately reflect your plans for your loved ones, your health, and your assets. At Colbert Law Firm, we specialize in Maryland Wills, Trusts, Probate, Guardianship and Advance Directives.
Estate Administration and Probate; Termination/Challenges to Personal Representatives
In addition to helping clients plan for the future, we assist personal representatives and trustees who need help administering an estate.
Since the probate process can be complicated and time-consuming, we can guide you through the process and help you with every stage of administering an estate. This includes helping clients with the inventory of assets, accounting, creditor notices and payment of debts, and distribution of assets.
We also assist with will contest caveats, and actions against personal representatives who abuse or misuse their authority and compromise fiduciary duties owed to heirs and beneficiaries.
How We Can Help You
Looking for a reliable and experienced probate and estate lawyer in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Estate disputes are overwhelming when emotions run high. Our team at Colbert Law Center provides strong legal representation to protect your interests and ensure that your loved one’s wishes are honored.
Here is how we can help:
Challenging or Defending a Will
If you believe a will is invalid due to fraud, undue influence, or lack of capacity, we can help you contest it. Similarly, if you need to defend a valid will against a challenge, we have got you covered.
Trust Disputes
Whether you are a trustee being accused of mismanagement or a beneficiary who believes a trust is not being handled properly, we provide legal guidance to resolve conflicts fairly.
Executor & Trustee Representation
Executors and trustees have significant legal responsibilities. We help ensure they fulfill their duties correctly while protecting them from potential legal challenges.
Inheritance Disputes
If you have been unfairly left out of a will or trust, or if you believe your inheritance rights have been violated, we can fight to get you what you deserve.
Guardianship Disputes
When there is disagreement over who should make decisions for an incapacitated family member, we help protect their best interests and advocate for the right guardian.
Increase Your Chance of Receiving Compensation
When it comes to estate disputes, acting quickly and strategically makes all the difference. Our legal team works diligently to gather evidence, negotiate settlements, and, when necessary, take your case to court.
Hire the Best Probate and Estate Lawyers in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
Here is why Colbert Law Center is the right firm for you:
Experienced Probate Litigation Lawyers
We have years of experience handling complex estate disputes. So, we are armed with the knowledge and skills necessary to fight for your rights effectively.
Client-Focused Approach
We carefully listen to you to understand your concerns, explain your options in plain English, and keep you informed throughout the process.
Strong Courtroom Representation
If your case goes to trial, you can trust us to present a compelling argument on your behalf.
Compassionate Advocacy
We treat every client with care and respect and focus on understanding that estate disputes involve more than just legal matters – they involve family and emotions.
Results-Driven
Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Contact our law firm to discuss your probate and estate needs with a Maryland and Washington, D.C. lawyer.
From our office in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, estate planning lawyer Janelle Ryan-Colbert represents clients in Washington, DC, Bowie, Temple Hills, Largo, Riverdale, Crofton, Waldorf, Clinton, and throughout Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel County, Charles County, Baltimore, Howard County, and the greater Washington, DC, metropolitan area.
FAQs
When to hire a probate litigation attorney?
Ans. You should hire a probate litigation attorney when there is a dispute over a will or estate. This could include family members contesting a will, concerns about an executor mishandling assets, or disagreements over how property is divided.
If you suspect fraud, undue influence, or any unfair actions in the probate process, it is best to get legal help as soon as possible.
How long does probate take in Maryland and Washington, D.C.?
Ans. The probate process usually takes several months to over a year, depending on how complex the estate is and whether any disputes arise. There is no strict deadline to start probate, but it is recommended to begin within 30 days of the person’s passing.
Creditors have up to a year to make claims against the estate, which can extend the timeline. If everything goes smoothly, probate can wrap up within six to twelve months, but if conflicts arise, it could take much longer.
Probate Lawyer vs Litigation Attorney - how do they differ?
Ans. A probate lawyer helps with the legal process of handling an estate, such as filing paperwork, paying debts, and distributing assets. They work with executors and beneficiaries to ensure everything follows the law.
On the other hand, a probate litigation attorney, steps in when there’s a dispute – whether it’s over the validity of a will, conflicts between heirs, or concerns about how an executor is managing the estate. If things get complicated and legal action is needed, a litigation attorney is the one to call.
Are there alternatives to litigation for probate matters?
Ans. Yes. Instead of going to court, families can try mediation where a neutral third party helps everyone come to an agreement. This can save time, money, and stress.
Arbitration is another option where an independent arbitrator listens to both sides and makes a decision.
Do you also have real estate litigation attorneys?
Ans. Yes, our real estate litigation lawyers help clients with all kinds of property disputes, including ownership issues, boundary disagreements, title problems, contract disputes, and landlord-tenant conflicts.