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VOTE411 Voter Guide

Baltimore City Register of Wills

DUTIES: The Register of Wills handles administrative duties dealing with estates and heirs. The office appoints representatives to make sure that a deceased person’s property passes to others, assists in legal paperwork dealing with wills and probate, collects inheritance taxes, keeps records of wills and probate documents, and does clerking duties for the judges of the Orphans’ Court.TERM: 4 yearsHOW ELECTED: Citywide

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    Belinda K. Conaway
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Shanai N. Dunmore
    (Dem)

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    Andy Zipay
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

QUALIFICATIONS: How does your experience prepare you for the duties of this office?

AREAS OF NEED: What are the areas of greatest need in the Orphans' Court system and how would you address them?

ASSISTANCE TO THE PUBLIC: How will you improve the service provided by the Register's office to the public?

PRIORITIES/GOALS: In addition to the issues you described in the other questions, what are your priorities for this office?

Campaign Phone 410-578-9326
During my 11 years of service, I have updated procedures and created new policies and practices to correct longstanding deficiencies in the probate process. First and foremost, I have inculcated my staff with the practice of answering our phones and returning phone calls from the public. Every call to our office is part of a bereavement process. We endeavor to respond gently and appropriately.
The greatest need in the Orphans’ Court system, by far, is the large number of citizens who own property, but die without wills. Almost all contested/contentious cases brought to the Orphans’ Court could be avoided if the departed had simply executed a will that provides specific instructions to their survivors. To address this need, I have embarked upon a public information campaign.
As stated above, we prioritize answering our phones. With the help of the City’s Department of General Services, we have established a new Welcome Center for citizens who come to the office for services. The Courthouse can be an intimidating place. We try to make it comfortable for the public.
Citizens should be familiar with the probate process and the importance of writing their Last Will and Testament. I have embarked upon a public information campaign using the slogan “Where there’s will, there’s a way.” We have delivered this message through electronic and social media and through numerous appearances at community groups, senior citizens’ groups, and church groups.
Campaign Mailing Address 4100 W Lombard St
Baltimore, MD 21223
My experience as frmr Chief Deputy in the Register of Wills office gave me extensive first hand knowledge of Maryland probate law, estate administration, and court procedures. As a licensed realtor, I understand property valuation and transfers often involved in estates. Together, these experiences prepare me to handle estate matters efficiently, ensure compliance with the law, and serve families
Modernization of technology, increased staffing resources, improved public access to legal guidance, and stronger coordination with city agencies. Addressing these needs through strategic funding, digital infrastructure, and community partnerships would reduce delays, improve transparency, and ensure that families navigating the probate process receive efficient and compassionate service.
More accessible, efficient, and clear communication. Strengthen customer service, expand public education about the probate process, and improve online resources so families can better understand estate administration requirements. Also, partner with legal aid organizations and pro bono attorneys to provide probate clinics for individuals navigating the process without representation.
A recent audit raised serious concerns about financial management within the Baltimore City Register of Wills office. Taxpayers dollars must be used responsibly, transparently and in full compliance with procurement laws. As Register of Wills, I will enforce disciplined financial management, strong oversight and a zero tolerance for waste or any attempt to circumvent the law.
Campaign Phone 4432489592
Campaign Mailing Address 3807 Mayberry Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21206
I have been a social worker, helping low income and disabled folks get back on their feet for over 20 years. I have great administration skills as well, having helped organized community events and distribute items into the communities. I have been a member of my local political central committee for many years where I have organized many events.
We need to do a better job at settling these estate issues more quickly and with less expenses to families. I recognize that sometimes these estate questions are very complicated and require more legal fees to get things worked out. However my focus will be always be saving families money and I will work tirelessly to make sure cases are settled ethically and in a timely matter.
I will bring a high level of integrity to the office. I will only spend taxpayer money when it is absolutely needed. At the same time, i will work to increase our productivity so that turnaround times occur more quickly.
I must say it again, that my priority will be to bring a high level of integrity to the office that I will serve.