We get it. You are busy. You are feeling great. Yet, it is important to remember, your loved ones need protection and directions to best honor your wishes when you are gone.  But yet, we know because millions of Americans remain without a proper estate plan, leaving their families and friends vulnerable to court delays, unnecessary taxes, and painful family disputes. If you live in Maryland, Washington DC, or Virginia, now is the time to act. The Law Office of Brian Gormley, LLC has been guiding individuals and families throughout MD, DC, and VA metro area since 2003, offering compassionate, experienced, estate planning tailored to you.  

What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning lawyer Bethesda, MD is the process of legally organizing your financial affairs and documenting your wishes for asset distribution, healthcare decisions, and family protection. It is far more than simply drafting a will. A comprehensive estate plan is a full strategy designed to preserve your wealth, minimize taxes, avoid unnecessary probate, and ensure the people you love are taken care of when you are no longer able to do so yourself. And, no you do not need to have tens of millions to need an estate plan in place. 

Why 2026 Is a Critical Year for Estate Planning

Every year it seems laws shift.  And in 2026 major changes in federal and state tax law make it especially important time to review or create your estate plan. Here is what residents of MD, DC, and VA need to know Estate Planning attorney Potomac MD DC TOPA.

Federal Estate Tax The federal estate tax exemption currently stands at $15 million per individual, or $30 million for married couples. This elevated exemption creates a valuable window for high-net-worth families to transfer wealth with minimal federal tax exposure.

Maryland Estate Tax Maryland imposes its own estate tax separate from the federal system, with an exemption of $5 million per individual. Estates exceeding this threshold face Maryland estate taxes that can compound alongside federal obligations. Married couples may combine exemptions up to $10 million through proper portability planning, but only with timely filing and strategic preparation.

Washington DC Estate Tax DC residents face an estate tax exemption of approximately $4,988,400. Because DC's threshold is lower than Maryland's, even middle-class families with homes, retirement accounts, and investment portfolios can find themselves subject to DC estate taxes without proper planning.

Virginia Virginia does not impose a state estate or inheritance tax, making it one of the more favorable jurisdictions for estate planning. However, proper planning is still essential to avoid probate delays, protect assets, and coordinate with federal tax obligations.

The Essential Documents Every Estate Plan Should Include

A well-rounded estate plan covers far more than just a will. Here are the core documents your plan should address:

Last Will and Testament Your will directs how your assets are distributed, names guardians for minor children, and designates a personal representative to manage your estate. Maryland, DC, and Virginia each have specific execution requirements for a will to be legally valid.

Revocable Living Trust A living trust allows assets to pass to your beneficiaries outside of probate, saving time, money, and privacy. Trusts are especially valuable for blended families, special needs beneficiaries, or anyone who wants to control exactly how and when assets are distributed.

Durable Power of Attorney This document authorizes a trusted person to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated, preventing the need for costly and invasive court-ordered guardianship.

Healthcare Directive and Advance Medical Directive These documents specify your medical treatment preferences and designate someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.

Beneficiary Designations Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and transfer-on-death accounts pass directly to named beneficiaries, completely outside your will. Failing to update these designations can undo even the most carefully drafted estate plan.

Why Choose The Law Office of Brian Gormley LLC? 

Our team helps our Virginia, Maryland and DC clients preserve their wealth, protect their families, and ensure their wishes are honored through compassionate conversations and comprehensive estate planning strategies that we tailor to each client. Because every client has a unique circumstance that must be considered. Our boutique firm also provides coordinated planning for clients with property or ties across Maryland, DC, and Virginia, navigating the distinct legal requirements of each jurisdiction.

Our approach is built on clear communication, practical solutions, and personalized and compassionate attention. Estate planning packages begin at $2,500 and are designed to give you a complete, legally sound plan that grows with your family and adapts to changing laws.

Do not wait for a health crisis, a death or divorce or a change in the law to force action. We encourage you to take control of your legacy today. This is your sign to act now.  

📍 7910 Woodmont Ave, Suite 600, Bethesda, MD 20814