Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Maryland

Debt larger than estate

My mom passed away leaving approximate 25,000 in debt. She left an estate of maybe 7,000. She did however have life insurance and her and my father are joint owners of their home. We are now receiving letters and phone calls from creditors stating that my father is obligated to pay these bills. We do not know what to do, how can you pay 25,000 worth of bill with 7,000 and why would he have to use his own money to pay debts that he did not create. My mom was the only name on these accounts. I just want to know how can they obligate him to pay something that he did not create.


Asked on 6/09/05, 12:38 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Brett Weiss The Weiss Law Group

Re: Debt larger than estate

Unless your father is jointly obligated on the debts, he is *not* liable for them by virtue of your mother's death. You may want to consider opening up a small estate, request claims, and pay those creditors who file pro rata. If you'd like assistance with this, please call me at (301) 924-4400.

Read more
Answered on 6/10/05, 5:39 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Probate, Trusts, Wills & Estates questions and answers in Maryland