2015 Maryland Code
ESTATES AND TRUSTS
Title 2 - THE COURT
Subtitle 2 - REGISTER OF WILLS
§ 2-209 - Custody of original wills and other papers

(a) In general. -- Any will, probated, or any paper filed in the office of the register may not be delivered out of the office to any person.

(b) When introduced in evidence. -- When a will or other paper is properly demanded for introduction in evidence, it shall be presented under the care of the register or his deputy.

(c) Compliance with requirements; standards. --

(1) The register may comply with subsection (a) of this section by:

(i) Retaining a permanent paper file of a probated will in the office and a copy of any other file associated with the estate in paper, photographic, microprocessed, magnetic, mechanical, electronic, digital, or any other medium if the copy is maintained in a manner that:

1. Is clear and legible;

2. Accurately reproduces the original document in its entirety, including any attachments to the document;

3. Is capable of producing a clear and legible hard copy of the original document; and

4. Preserves evidence of any signature contained on the document; and

(ii) No sooner than 180 days following the closing of an estate, returning each other file associated with the estate, other than the will, to the personal representative of the estate.

(2) In consultation with the Comptroller and the State Archives to ensure uniform application throughout the State, the register shall develop standards in accordance with paragraph (1) of this subsection.