When someone passes away in Maryland, their estate often goes through probate—a process supervised by the court to settle debts and distribute assets. But how much does probate cost? Let’s break it down in plain terms.

First, attorney fees. Think of hiring a lawyer like hiring a skilled mechanic for a complicated repair. Depending on how complex the estate is, a lawyer might charge a percentage—usually 1.5% to 5% of the estate’s value. Or they may charge by the hour, something like $200 to $500 an hour. On average, lawyer fees can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more.

Next, bond premiums. A bond is like insurance that the person handling the estate will do their job right. The cost of the bond is usually around 0.5% to 1.5% of the estate’s total value. If the estate is worth $500,000, the bond could cost between $2,500 and $7,500.

Then, court filing fees. These are the costs to get the legal process rolling. In Montgomery County, filing fees range from $165 to $300, depending on the estate.

Finally, other costs. Sometimes you need an appraiser to value property, which might cost $500 to $2,000. You might also pay $100 to $300 to publish a notice in the newspaper.

In total, for a $500,000 estate, probate might cost between $8,000 and $20,000. Smaller estates are less expensive, while larger or more complicated estates could cost more. With this guide, you’ll have a clearer picture of what to expect. And remember, every estate is unique—so it’s always a good idea to ask questions!