1. File the last Will (including Codicils, if any) of the decedent (deceased person) with the      Register of Wills in the county where the decedent was domiciled at the time of death
2. Select a Personal Representative before disposing of any assets
3. Petition to have Personal Representative appointed; receive Letters of Administration
4. Appraise estate assets
5. File the appropriate documents:

Maryland

• Petition for Probate and Schedule A or B
• List of Interested Persons (those named in the Will and those who would inherit if there were no Will);
• Consent to Appointment of Personal Representative (if someone other than the person named in the Will or otherwise entitled to appointment is applying);
• Appointment of Resident Agent (if petitioner is not a Maryland resident);
• Proof of Execution of Will if Will lacks an attestation clause;
• Inventory and Information Report;
• Notice of Appointment;
• Bond;
• Paid funeral bill; and
• Copy of death certificate (obtain from Division of Vital Records)
• First Account (due within 9 months from appointment of Personal Representative) (subsequent accounts must be filed as required until the estate is closed)
  
• SMALL ESTATE - a ssets valued at $30,000 or less; $50,000 if the spouse is the sole legatee
• REGULAR ESTATE - a ssets in excess of $30,000; $50,000 if the spouse is the sole legatee

District of Columbia

• Petition for Administration of Small Estate
• Certification of Filing Will
• Notice of Appointment
• Funeral bills(s) and receipts

• What is probate and should it be avoided?