Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Maryland

Re: What or how are attorney fees determined when handling an administration of

In Maryland, there is a maximum combined fee that can be charged by a personal representative (executor) and the attorney for the personal representative. Even so, the fee has to be approved by the court for reasonableness. The ceiling for probate fees is 9% of the first $20,000 of estate property and 3.6% of the excess over $20,000.

Richard S. Stolker

301-294-9500

Re: What or how are attorney fees determined when handling an administration of

Maryland law sets forth that unless a will provides otherwise commissions of a personal representative may not exceed 9 percent if the estate is not over $20,000 or if over $20,000 then $1,800 plus 3.6 percent of the excess over $20,000. Any fees paid for real estate brokerage are not deducted against the commission paid to a personal representative. Attorney fees must be reasonable as determined by court. If you should need assistance, contact me at (410) 799-9002.