Maryland Estate Planning Myths That Could Cost You Thousands

Estate planning is one of those things everyone knows they should do — but few people really understand.

And in Maryland, there are so many myths floating around that they often stop families from protecting themselves properly.

Some of these myths are harmless. Others can cost your family time, money, and peace of mind.

Let’s clear up the confusion so you can make smart decisions about your legacy.

Myth #1: “I Don’t Need an Estate Plan — I Don’t Have Much.”

This is one of the most common misunderstandings.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy. It’s for everyone who wants to protect their loved ones, their property, and their wishes.

Even if you only own a home, a car, or a small savings account, you still need a plan to decide:

• Who inherits your assets
• Who pays your bills or handles your affairs if you’re incapacitated
• Who cares for your children or dependents

Without a plan, the State of Maryland decides all of that for you — through a public, time-consuming probate process.

Myth #2: “A Will Is All I Need.”

A will is important, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle.

A will doesn’t:

• Avoid probate
• Protect your privacy
• Handle incapacity
• Manage your property after your death

For many families, a revocable living trust, powers of attorney, and advance medical directives are just as essential.

A will alone gives instructions — but an estate plan gives protection.

Myth #3: “My Family Will Just Figure It Out.”

It’s a comforting thought, but rarely true.

When someone passes away without clear instructions, families are left guessing — and that’s when conflict begins.

Siblings disagree. Spouses feel overwhelmed. Relatives misunderstand your intentions.

A clear plan prevents those emotional and financial disputes before they ever begin.

Your family deserves clarity, not conflict.

Myth #4: “Estate Planning Is Too Expensive.”

The truth? Not planning costs more.

Without a plan, your loved ones could face:

• Thousands of dollars in probate fees and court costs
• Delays accessing your bank accounts or property
• Higher taxes and legal expenses

A properly designed estate plan saves money, simplifies administration, and keeps your assets where they belong — with your family.

Think of it as an investment in peace of mind.

Myth #5: “I Can Just Use an Online Template.”

Online forms might sound quick and cheap, but Maryland’s estate laws are very specific.

If your document doesn’t meet state requirements — for example, if it isn’t properly witnessed or notarized — it might not be valid at all.

We’ve seen families spend years (and thousands of dollars) cleaning up problems caused by DIY legal documents.

Your legacy is too important for guesswork.

Myth #6: “Once I Sign My Will, I’m Done.”

Estate planning isn’t a one-time task — it’s a living process.

Life changes, and so should your plan.

Review your documents every few years, or whenever you experience:

• Marriage, divorce, or remarriage
• Birth or adoption of a child
• Purchase or sale of real estate
• Business formation or closure
• Major health changes

An outdated plan can cause just as many problems as no plan at all.

How Liberty Legacy Law Group Helps Maryland Families

At Liberty Legacy Law Group, we help Maryland families cut through the noise and get to what really matters — protection, clarity, and confidence.

We’ll walk you through each step of the process:

• Understanding your unique goals
• Explaining Maryland’s estate laws in plain English
• Designing wills, trusts, and powers of attorney that actually work
• Keeping your plan up to date as life evolves

Our goal isn’t to scare you into planning — it’s to empower you to plan wisely.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let myths and misinformation stop you from protecting your family.

Estate planning isn’t about wealth — it’s about well-being. It’s about making sure the people you love are cared for, no matter what happens.

At Liberty Legacy Law Group, we help Maryland families turn confusion into confidence and uncertainty into legacy.

Because your peace of mind is worth more than any myth. Reach out to us to learn more.