Fiduciary Litigation Lawyer in Baltimore County, MD
A fiduciary litigation lawyer in Baltimore County handles disputes over breaches of trust, executor misconduct, and trustee mismanagement. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced representation for beneficiaries and fiduciaries in Orphans’ Court and Circuit Court proceedings. Our firm, founded in 1997, has extensive experience handling Maryland’s complex trust and estate laws. We offer 24/7 consultations to discuss your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
Fiduciary litigation in Maryland involves legal action against a trustee, executor, or other fiduciary for failing to uphold their legal duties. These duties, defined under the Maryland Trust Act (Md. Code Est. & Trusts § 14.5-101 et seq.) and the Estates and Trusts Article, require fiduciaries to act solely in the beneficiaries’ best interests, with loyalty, prudence, and proper accounting. When a fiduciary breaches these duties—through self-dealing, negligence, or mismanagement of assets—a fiduciary litigation lawyer in Baltimore County can file a petition for surcharge, removal, or other remedies in the appropriate court.
Our firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, brings decades of legal experience to these complex matters. Understanding the procedural nuances of Baltimore County courts is critical for a successful outcome.
Official Legal Resources
- Maryland Code, Estates and Trusts Article (official Maryland General Assembly)
- District Court of Maryland for Baltimore County – Towson
- Gather Documentation: Compile the trust agreement, will, accountings, communications, and any evidence of the alleged breach of duty or fiduciary duty violation.
- Consult a Fiduciary Litigation Lawyer: Have an attorney review the documents to assess the merits of a potential claim for trustee breach of duty.
- File a Petition: Your lawyer will file the appropriate petition (e.g., for removal, surcharge, instructions) in the Baltimore County Orphans’ Court or Circuit Court.
- Discovery and Negotiation: The parties exchange information. Your attorney will seek a settlement through mediation or negotiation if possible.
- Court Proceedings: If a settlement isn’t reached, the case proceeds to a hearing or trial where the court will decide the matter.
In Baltimore County, fiduciary litigation can result in the fiduciary being removed, ordered to repay misused funds (surcharge), and held personally liable for losses.
| Action | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Violation of loyalty, prudence, or duty to account | Surcharge, Removal, Attorney’s Fees |
| Trustee Mismanagement | Failure to prudently invest or protect trust assets | Personal liability for losses |
| Will Contest | Lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud | Will invalidated; estate frozen during litigation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Fiduciary Dispute
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results, we bring substantial resources and a strategic perspective to fiduciary litigation. We understand that these cases are often emotionally charged and procedurally complex. Our approach is to provide clear, direct counsel focused on protecting your rights and the integrity of the trust or estate.
While specific case counts for fiduciary litigation in Baltimore County are not separately tallied, our firm’s extensive litigation experience forms the foundation of our practice. In related estate matters, our attorneys have successfully navigated contested probate and trust administrations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Baltimore County, including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium. We represent beneficiaries and fiduciaries in need of a fiduciary litigation lawyer Baltimore County residents can rely on for assertive representation in Orphans’ Court.
Fiduciary Litigation FAQs for Baltimore County
What is a breach of fiduciary duty in Maryland?
It depends. A breach occurs when a trustee, executor, or other fiduciary fails to act in the beneficiaries’ sole best interest. Common examples include self-dealing, mismanaging assets, failing to provide accountings, or acting with gross negligence. A fiduciary duty violation lawyer Baltimore County can evaluate if the fiduciary’s actions meet the legal standard for a breach.
What can a beneficiary do if a trustee is mismanaging a trust?
A beneficiary can petition the Baltimore County Orphans’ Court to have the trustee removed, surcharged (ordered to repay losses), and to receive a full accounting. The process requires filing a formal petition with specific allegations. Consulting with a trustee breach of duty lawyer Baltimore County is the critical first step to protect your interests.
How long does fiduciary litigation take in Maryland?
It depends on the complexity and whether the case settles. Contested matters can take 12 to 24 months from filing to a final court order. The discovery phase, where both sides exchange evidence, often constitutes a significant portion of the timeline.
Can I recover attorney’s fees in a fiduciary lawsuit?
Yes, in many cases. Maryland law allows a court to award attorney’s fees to the successful party in fiduciary litigation, often paid from the trust or estate assets. This is a key reason to have skilled legal representation from the outset.
What court handles fiduciary disputes in Baltimore County?
Most fiduciary litigation, including petitions for removal of a trustee or challenges to an executor’s actions, is filed in the Baltimore County Orphans’ Court. Certain types of claims may be filed in the Circuit Court for Baltimore County.
For more information, see our Maryland Estate Planning hub page. We also assist clients in Anne Arundel County and with Baltimore County business law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.