Asset Protection Lawyers in Annapolis, MD
Leverage Our Unparalleled Experience to Preserve Your Legacy
For over 90 years, Hartman - Attorneys at Law has been a name people throughout Anne Arundel County and beyond have depended on for estate planning, particularly asset protection. Our team of skilled lawyers has extensive experience helping clients safeguard their hard-earned wealth and assets from legal risks and tax liabilities. No matter the size of your estate, you can trust us to devise and implement a strategy to preserve your legacy for yourself, loved ones, and others under your care.
Learn more about our offerings and how you could benefit from working with one of our Annapolis asset protection lawyers in a complimentary consultation. All it takes to schedule yours is a phone call or a message online. We look forward to serving you.
Start with Hartman - Attorneys at Law by reaching out at (443) 335-9661 or submitting our firm's online contact form. From Annapolis, we proudly serve Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, Montgomery, and Washington counties.
Common Risks to Assets & Wealth
Many people have put a lifetime’s work into building financial stability and accumulating assets. As such, it is critical to recognize the common legal risks that could threaten those hard-earned gains.
Some of the most typical concerns include:
- Litigation: In today's increasingly litigious society, lawsuits are a pervasive risk for anyone with above-average net worth.
- Creditors: If you are in debt or owe money to creditors, your assets could be at risk if they decide to pursue collections through court judgments or liens.
- Divorce: Without proper asset protection measures, your ex-spouse may be entitled to a significant portion of your assets.
- Taxes: Failing to plan for tax liabilities can significantly diminish the value of your estate and assets.
- Medical care: In many instances, long-term healthcare and other medical expenses can quickly deplete assets.
Develop a Personalized Asset Protection Strategy with Our Team
No two people have the same financial circumstances or goals, which is why our firm collaborates with clients to craft asset protection strategies and put them into action. Our lawyers are heavily invested in the satisfaction and success of those who partner with us. When our clients are happy and able to preserve their hard-earned wealth, we have done our job.
Put our decades of legal experience to work for you. Call (443) 335-9661 or contact us online to schedule a time to speak with one of our Annapolis asset protection lawyers.
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Director Peer Review
Excellent experienced attorney who deserves an AV rating.
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Managing Partner Peer Review
Ed is a smart, principled, and diligent attorney who has been a pleasure to work with.
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Partner Peer Review
Mr. Hartman is very knowledgeable and resourceful and will get the job done in an efficient manner.
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“In a field that has increasingly become specialty-focused, Ed Hartman remains among the best lawyers to provide sound legal advice across a broad spectrum of legal issues.”Attorney Peer Review
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“Ed Hartman is an attorney with diversified skills, who has always maintained the highest ethical and professional standards.”Attorney Peer Review
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Ed is a very knowledgeable and experienced attorney with respect to recreational vessels, representing several boat manufacturers.Principal Peer Review
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Managing Partner Peer Review
Ed is a thoughtful man of good judgment and substantial legal knowledge. He is entitled to an AV rating.
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Managing Partner Peer Review
I have had matters with Mr. Hartman over the years and find him to be hard working and extremely competent.
Why Work with Us?
A Legacy of Client-Focused Advocacy
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Trusted Representation for Every Challenge
From litigation to negotiations, our attorneys provide diligent representation, focused on achieving practical solutions for your peace of mind.
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Comprehensive Legal SolutionsWhether you’re an individual, family, or business, we offer thoughtful counsel across maritime, business, estate, and real estate law to address your unique needs.
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Strategic Guidance, Clear CommunicationWe help you navigate complex legal matters with straightforward advice and prompt communication, ensuring you feel confident at every stage.
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A Legacy of AdvocacySince 1931, we’ve built lasting relationships by putting our clients’ interests first. Our long-standing history reflects our dedication to reliable, results-driven legal counsel.
Asset Protection Strategies
Our lawyers work closely with clients to develop customized asset protection plans that account for their unique circumstances and goals. Some of the strategies we may employ are detailed below:
Trusts
Establishing a trust is one of the most effective ways to safeguard assets. These legal tools allow you to transfer ownership and control of assets while enjoying certain benefits and protections. They can also minimize tax liability and allow you to pass assets to beneficiaries without probate.
Generally, irrevocable trusts are the most protective, as they take assets from your estate and place them under the control of a trustee. Once established, you cannot easily amend or revoke them. On the other hand, revocable trusts offer more flexibility but less protection, as you still have control over the assets and can make changes to them.
Should you have a loved one with special needs, creating a special needs trust is another way to shield assets while providing for their care and helping them qualify for government benefits.
Business Entities
If you run a business or have significant investments in a company, forming a business entity such as an LLC or corporation can protect personal assets from business-related liabilities. In these structures, only the assets owned by the entity are exposed to risks of legal actions against the company.
Gifting
Gifting assets to family members or charities can remove them from your estate and reduce tax liability. However, it is important to carefully consider the gifting limits and potential consequences before making significant transfers of assets.
Homestead Exemption
Maryland's homestead exemption allows homeowners to protect a certain amount of equity from creditors or during bankruptcy. This exemption can be applied to any property you own and occupy, including homes, apartments, condominiums, etc.
Umbrella Insurance
In addition to legal strategies, purchasing umbrella insurance can provide an extra layer of protection for your assets. This type of insurance offers coverage above and beyond the limits of other policies, such as homeowners or auto insurance. It can guard against various liabilities, including lawsuits, property damage, and personal injury claims.