Legal Question in Bankruptcy in Maryland

Re: Am I liable for Mother-in-law debts if she moves in?

If your mother-in-law moves in with you do not by virture of that fact alone, become liable for her debts. I am not sure what you mean by, "My wife's name has appeared on her checks for years as a person who can sign them." Is it a joint account? I suspect the answer is yes and you wife may be liable if credit was extended based on reasonable reliance on your wife's credit.

Re: Am I liable for Mother-in-law debts if she moves in?

Whether your wife signed in her capacity jointly with her mother or in the administration of her mother's affairs is the question. If her mother signed the check and was denied for payment under her account then this will absolve you wife from responsibility. Check your credit report regularly.