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Best Estate Planning Attorneys in Towson
Table of Contents
- Top Estate Planning Attorneys in Towson
- 1. The Law Office of Thomas K. Mallon, LLC, Best for Personalized Family-Focused Guidance
- 2. Levin Gann PA, Best for Comprehensive Wealth and Tax Planning
- 3. Mudd, Harrison & Burch, L.L.P., Best for Estate Tax Minimization and Asset Protection
- 4. Costello Law Group, Best for Taxation Expertise and Accessible Consultation
- 5. Friedman & Friedman, LLP, Best for Integrated Legal and Business Planning
- 6. Jane P. Sopher, Attorney at Law, Best for Straightforward, Respectful Guidance
- 7. Franke Beckett LLC, Best for Transparent Fee Structures and Flat-Fee Planning
- How to Create a Living Trust in Maryland
- Understanding Maryland Estate Planning Laws
- The Estate Administration Process in Maryland
- Why You Need an Estate Planning Attorney
- Choosing Your Estate Planning Attorney: Key Considerations
- Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: August 22, 2026
Top Estate Planning Attorneys in Towson
Finding the right estate planning attorney combines deep legal expertise with genuine commitment to understanding your unique circumstances. We've reviewed top firms in the area to help you identify attorneys who excel at translating complex estate law into clear guidance.
1. The Law Office of Thomas K. Mallon, LLC, Best for Personalized Family-Focused Guidance
The Law Office of Thomas K. Mallon, LLC stands out for client-centered representation. With over 25 years of experience, this firm specializes in both family law and estate planning, addressing overlapping concerns like guardianship, inheritance rights in divorce, and family protection strategies within a single relationship.
Rather than pushing clients toward standard templates, attorneys here spend time understanding your family structure, financial situation, and long-term goals before recommending strategies. The firm offers a free consultation, removing the barrier to professional guidance.
Pros:
- Over 25 years of experience in estate planning and family law
- Client-centered approach with personalized strategies
- Free consultation to assess your needs
- Specializes in complex family situations
Best For: Families with complicated circumstances (blended families, minor children, significant assets, or overlapping family law concerns) who want an attorney that listens first and recommends second.
2. Levin Gann PA, Best for Comprehensive Wealth and Tax Planning
Levin Gann PA brings nearly a century of combined experience to estate planning, with a dedicated Wills, Trusts & Estates group handling everything from straightforward wills to complex multi-generational wealth transfer strategies. Their expertise in gift and estate tax planning identifies strategies that reduce unnecessary tax burden while achieving your family's goals. The consultation-based pricing model lets you discuss your specific situation before committing to any engagement.
Pros:
- Nearly a century of combined expertise
- Dedicated estates and trusts group
- Specializes in tax planning and wealth preservation
- Experienced with complex business succession matters
Best For: Individuals and families with significant assets, business interests, or complex financial situations requiring sophisticated tax and wealth planning strategies.
3. Mudd, Harrison & Burch, L.L.P., Best for Estate Tax Minimization and Asset Protection
Mudd, Harrison & Burch combines over 140 years of collective attorney experience with a focus on protecting family wealth. Their proactive approach analyzes your complete financial picture to recommend strategies that minimize estate taxes and protect assets from creditors. The firm also handles ongoing estate management, assisting with updates and adjustments as life circumstances change.
Pros:
- Over 140 combined years of attorney experience
- Thorough analysis to minimize tax exposure
- Assistance with updating plans as circumstances change
- Strong focus on asset protection strategies
Best For: Families seeking to minimize estate taxes and protect accumulated wealth, particularly those with real estate holdings, business interests, or significant assets.
4. Costello Law Group, Best for Taxation Expertise and Accessible Consultation
Costello Law Group offers a rare combination: founding attorney credentials in taxation and estate planning certification, paired with a free initial consultation. The founding attorney holds an LLM in taxation, meaning sophisticated tax planning strategies are built into their estate planning approach. With over 40 years of combined experience, they've handled diverse estate planning scenarios.
Pros:
- Free initial consultation
- Founding attorney has LLM in taxation and estate planning certification
- Over 40 years of combined experience
- Serves clients throughout Maryland
Best For: Clients seeking tax-focused estate planning who want to start with a free consultation, particularly those with business interests or complex financial situations.
5. Friedman & Friedman, LLP, Best for Integrated Legal and Business Planning
Friedman & Friedman brings AV Peer Review rating from Martindale-Hubbell, recognizing professional excellence and ethical standards. The firm's breadth, combining estate planning, corporate law, taxation, and real estate, creates an advantage for clients whose estate planning intersects with business or property concerns.
Pros:
- AV Peer Review rated (Martindale-Hubbell)
- Comprehensive services integrating estate planning with corporate and tax law
- Broad expertise addressing overlapping legal concerns
- Commitment to professional standards and integrity
Best For: Business owners and individuals with complex financial situations requiring coordinated estate, corporate, and tax planning from a single firm.
6. Jane P. Sopher, Attorney at Law, Best for Straightforward, Respectful Guidance
Jane P. Sopher brings over 30 years of Maryland legal practice to estate planning with a philosophy focused on simplifying complex decisions. Her approach emphasizes clear explanations and personalized guidance, helping clients understand why each element matters to their specific family situation. Her long tenure in Maryland law means deep familiarity with state-specific requirements for wills, trusts, and probate administration.
Pros:
- Over 30 years of Maryland legal practice
- Client-focused approach emphasizing clear explanations
- Respectful, dignified treatment of clients
- Specialized in simplifying estate planning decisions
Best For: Individuals and families seeking straightforward estate planning guidance with an attorney who prioritizes clear communication and personalized attention.
7. Franke Beckett LLC, Best for Transparent Fee Structures and Flat-Fee Planning
Franke Beckett stands out for transparent pricing. The initial consultation carries a $500 fee, credited toward your retainer if you hire the firm. The majority of estate planning work is completed on a flat-fee basis, meaning you understand costs upfront. Their focus on estate planning and asset protection, combined with experience in fiduciary litigation, means they understand how to create an estate plan and protect it if disputes arise.
Pros:
- Transparent initial consultation fee ($500, credited to retainer)
- Majority of estate planning work on flat-fee basis
- Clear cost structure upfront
- Experience in estate/trust administration and fiduciary litigation
Best For: Clients who prioritize cost transparency and prefer flat-fee arrangements over hourly billing, particularly those with straightforward to moderately complex estates.
How to Create a Living Trust in Maryland
A revocable living trust holds title to your assets during your lifetime and specifies how those assets transfer to your chosen beneficiaries after your death, all without requiring probate court involvement.
The process begins with deciding what assets to include in the trust. Real estate, investment accounts, vehicles, and valuable personal property are common candidates. Retirement accounts with designated beneficiaries typically stay outside the trust because their beneficiary designations already control transfer. estate liquidation services.
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Next, you'll name a trustee, the person or institution responsible for managing trust assets according to your instructions. Many people name themselves as initial trustee, maintaining control during their lifetime, and name a successor trustee who takes over if you become incapacitated or pass away.
The trust document specifies how assets are managed and distributed. You might direct that all assets pass to your spouse, or that assets are divided among children, or that distributions occur over time rather than immediately.
Once the trust is created, you'll transfer asset titles into the trust's name, a process called "funding the trust." For real estate, this involves recording a new deed. For financial accounts, you contact the institution and request the account title be changed to reflect the trust. This step is critical: assets not transferred into the trust won't receive the probate-avoidance benefit. Creating a living trust typically takes several weeks from initial consultation to completion.
Understanding Maryland Estate Planning Laws
Maryland law establishes specific requirements for valid wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents. A will must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by at least two competent witnesses who sign in the testator's presence. The testator must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
Maryland recognizes revocable living trusts as valid estate planning vehicles (maryland.gov). Unlike wills, trusts don't require witnesses and can be modified or revoked during your lifetime. The state also recognizes durable powers of attorney, which allow you to designate someone to manage your financial affairs if you become unable to do so, and advance medical directives, which allow you to specify your end-of-life medical preferences and designate someone to make healthcare decisions if you cannot (maryland.gov). An experienced estate planning attorney ensures your documents comply with Maryland law while actually achieving your goals.
The Estate Administration Process in Maryland
Estate administration is the legal process of settling a deceased person's affairs after death. In Maryland, this process involves identifying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining property according to the person's will or trust, or according to intestacy laws if no valid plan exists.
The first step is determining whether the estate requires probate administration. If the deceased person left a valid will or if assets are held in a revocable living trust, probate may be avoided or significantly simplified. When probate is necessary, the court appoints an executor (the person named in the will to manage the estate) or administrator (if no will exists).
The executor's responsibilities include identifying all estate assets, notifying creditors and beneficiaries, paying valid claims and taxes, and distributing remaining assets according to the will or trust terms. This process typically takes several months to over a year, depending on the estate's complexity. Maryland law requires the executor to provide an accounting to beneficiaries and act honestly, prudently, and solely in the interests of the estate and beneficiaries. Working with an estate planning attorney during administration is valuable because they understand Maryland's specific procedures and can help executors navigate tax requirements and beneficiary communications.
Why You Need an Estate Planning Attorney
Estate planning is one of those areas where professional guidance provides value far beyond what you might initially expect. While it's technically possible to create basic documents yourself using online templates, working with a qualified estate planning attorney addresses issues those templates simply cannot.
A will or trust that fails to meet Maryland's technical requirements is worthless and won't accomplish your intentions. An attorney knows which requirements are non-negotiable and which provisions matter for your specific situation. Effective estate planning also addresses incapacity planning, tax minimization, asset protection, guardianship of minor children, and coordination between multiple documents, issues templates typically miss.
An attorney customizes your plan to your actual circumstances rather than forcing you into a generic template. Clear, well-documented wishes reduce the likelihood of disputes after your death. Finally, an estate planning attorney provides peace of mind knowing your family is protected and your wishes are documented.
Choosing Your Estate Planning Attorney: Key Considerations
Selecting the right estate planning attorney requires evaluating several factors beyond reputation or location.
Experience with your specific situation. An attorney experienced with blended families, business owners, or special needs planning brings relevant expertise to your matter. Ask about their experience with situations similar to yours.
Communication style and approach. You need an attorney who listens to your concerns and explains things clearly. Notice whether the attorney asks questions about your family and goals or immediately starts recommending solutions.
Transparency about fees and process. You should understand how the attorney charges, what services are included, and what to expect in terms of timeline and involvement.
Accessibility and responsiveness. You want an attorney who's reasonably accessible when you have questions and who responds to communications in a timely manner.
Professional credentials and standing. Look for attorneys with relevant certifications, professional recognition, or strong peer ratings.
Willingness to coordinate with other advisors. If you have a financial advisor, accountant, or insurance professional, your attorney should be willing to coordinate with them.
| Consideration | What to Evaluate | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Familiarity with your specific family or financial situation | Specialized knowledge prevents costly mistakes |
| Communication | Clear explanations and genuine listening | You need to understand your plan, not just sign documents |
| Fees | Transparent pricing and clear engagement terms | Avoids surprise costs and sets expectations |
| Responsiveness | Timely replies to questions and accessibility | You need support during the planning process |
| Credentials | Certifications, peer ratings, professional recognition | Indicates commitment and professional standards |
| Coordination | Willingness to work with your other advisors | Estate planning is most effective when integrated |
Estate planning protects your family and ensures your wishes are carried out after you're gone. The best estate planning attorney in Towson combines deep legal expertise with genuine commitment to understanding your unique situation. At The Law Office of Thomas K. Mallon, LLC, our client-centered approach prioritizes listening to your needs and developing personalized strategies that actually protect your future. With over 25 years of experience in estate planning and family law, we offer the guidance families need to navigate complex legal decisions with confidence. Schedule your free consultation today to discuss your estate planning goals and learn how we can help protect what matters most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an estate planning attorney do?
An estate planning attorney helps you create and manage legal documents that protect your assets and ensure your wishes are carried out. They draft wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance medical directives. They also guide you through probate administration, help minimize estate taxes, establish guardianship arrangements, and provide fiduciary representation when needed. Their role is to give you clear guidance through complex legal systems so your family has peace of mind.
How do I create a living trust in Maryland?
To create a living trust in Maryland, you first meet with an estate planning attorney who listens to your circumstances and goals. You'll identify your assets, beneficiaries, and who you want to manage the trust. The attorney drafts the trust document according to Maryland law, you sign it, and assets are retitled in the trust's name. A living trust helps avoid probate, provides privacy, and allows management of your assets if you become incapacitated. An attorney ensures the trust is properly executed and funded.
Do I need a lawyer for estate planning in Maryland?
While Maryland law doesn't require a lawyer for a will or basic estate planning, an attorney is strongly recommended. Mistakes in drafting, execution, or asset protection can lead to disputes, probate delays, or unintended tax consequences. An estate planning attorney ensures your documents are legally valid, your assets are protected, and your wishes are clearly expressed. For families with complex situations, multiple properties, or significant assets, professional guidance is essential to avoid costly errors.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will is a legal document that names an executor and specifies how your assets should be distributed after death. It goes through probate court. A trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee manages your assets for beneficiaries during your lifetime or after death, and it typically avoids probate. Trusts offer privacy, faster distribution, and protection if you become incapacitated. Many families use both: a will as a backup and a trust as the primary tool for asset management and wealth transfer.
How much does estate planning cost?
Estate planning costs vary depending on the complexity of your situation, the types of documents needed, and the attorney's fee structure. Some firms offer free initial consultations to discuss your needs. Pricing models range from flat fees for standard wills and trusts to hourly rates for complex estates involving tax planning or business succession. Contact an estate planning attorney for a consultation and fee estimate tailored to your specific circumstances.