Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in District of Columbia

Re: Deceased Spouse

A surviving spouse will not generally be PERSONALLY liable for debts of the decedant. However, it is important to note that if the decedent had property in his/her own name alone, that property might be required to be sold or surrendered under certain circumstances. This would particularly be the case if the property was formally collateral for a loan. If there is property involved at all, you should contact a probate/estates attorney directly. While I do not practice in that area, I would be happy to direct you to such an attorney. Just give me a call.

Lawrence R. Holzman, Esquire

Joseph, Greenwald & Laake, P.A.

6404 Ivy Lane, Suite 400

Greenbelt, MD 20770

(301) 220-2200

fax (301) 220-1214

Disclaimer: Please note that the posting of this response is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should contact an attorney to obtain information applicable to your situation. This posting is not confidential or privileged and does not create an attorney/client relationship.

Re: Deceased Spouse

The surviving spouse is not generally responsible for the debts which were solely the responsibility of the deceased. However, if the debt is secured, the estate must either pay off the debt or return the collateral.