Estate Planning and Estate Administration

Family-Focused Estate Planning and Guidance, Made Easy.

Being prepared shouldn’t be overwhelming or complicated. At Smith, Gildea & Schmidt, we help Maryland families plan for the future with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

We focus on creating personalized estate plans that bring peace of mind — and when needed, we also guide loved ones through estate administration with the same thoughtful care. 

A family enjoying time together, reflecting the peace of mind that comes from thoughtful estate planning and long-term preparation.

No Two Families Are the Same — and Neither Are Their Needs.

Whether you’re planning ahead or managing a loved one’s estate, we provide individualized guidance to ensure every detail is considered and every decision makes sense for your family.

Clear Guidance. Smart Planning. Lasting Confidence.

 

Our Estates & Trusts team combines decades of legal experience with a practical, personal approach. 

We take the time to understand your goals, explain every option in plain English, and guide you through the process at your pace. 

Whether you’re planning ahead or managing a loved one’s estate, you’ll have clear answers, steady support, and confidence in every decision. 

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 Here’s How We Make It Easy:

We Start with a Conversation

We'll talk through your goals, answer your questions, and discuss next steps.

Then Create Your Personalized Plan

We design a clear, complete plan to accomplish your goals and meet your family's needs.

And Move Forward with Confidence

Your plan is executed with care, giving your family peace of mind.

Comprehensive Estate Planning and Administration for Maryland Families.

We help you plan ahead — and we’re here to guide your family when they need support.

Estate Planning: 

Wills & Trusts 

Powers of Attorney 

Health Care Directives 

Beneficiary Coordination 

Family Communication Planning

Estate Administration: 

Probate Guidance 

Executor & Personal Representative Support 

Estate Accountings & Filings 

Dispute Resolution Guidance

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Why Families Across Maryland Trust Our Team

  • Personal Attention - You'll work directly with your attorney, not just staff.
  • Local Experience — Deep roots in Maryland estate law and probate.
  • Clarity at Every Step — We make complex decisions simple to understand.
  • Long-Term Confidence — We build relationships that last for generations.
  • Full-Service Support — Integrated with our firm’s litigation, real estate, and business practices for complete solutions.

Get the guidance you need - and the peace of mind you deserve.

 

Imagine Feeling Completely Prepared. 

Estate planning isn’t about paperwork — it’s about protecting the people you love.

It’s knowing everything is in order and feeling in control, clear, and confident — today and for years to come.

Family standing on a beach at sunset, representing preparation, protection, and confidence about the future.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Let’s make this easier than you expected.

Whether you’re ready to start planning or need guidance after a loss, we’re here to help — with clarity, compassion, and care. 

You’ve been meaning to do this — let’s make it simple.

Family standing on a beach at sunset, representing preparation, protection, and confidence about the future.

Estates & Trusts Client Resources

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Estates & Trusts Practice Areas