The Maryland Declaration of Trust is a legal document that establishes a trust in the state of Maryland. It contains detailed information about the trust's purpose, beneficiaries, assets, and trustee(s). This document serves as evidence of the trust's existence and outlines the rights, responsibilities, and powers of all involved parties. When creating a Maryland Declaration of Trust, there are various types based on the specific nature and purpose of the trust. Some common types include: 1. Revocable Living Trust: This type of trust allows the creator (granter) to retain control over the trust property during their lifetime. The granter can amend, revoke, or modify the trust according to their wishes. Upon the granter's demise, the trust becomes irrevocable and the assets are distributed as instructed. 2. Irrevocable Trust: Unlike a revocable trust, an irrevocable trust cannot be modified or revoked without the consent of all beneficiaries. This type of trust is often used for estate planning purposes, providing tax benefits and asset protection. 3. Special Needs Trust: A Special Needs Trust is designed to preserve the eligibility of individuals with disabilities for government benefits such as Medicaid. It allows for the management of assets while ensuring that the beneficiary's access to essential programs remains intact. 4. Charitable Trust: A Charitable Trust is established to support charitable endeavors or organizations. It enables individuals to donate assets or funds, providing tax benefits and the opportunity to have a lasting philanthropic impact. 5. Testamentary Trust: This trust is created through a person's last will and testament and comes into effect upon the individual's passing. It allows the creator to designate beneficiaries and distribute assets according to their wishes. 6. Land Trust: A Land Trust is commonly used to hold and manage real estate properties. It provides privacy to property owners as the trust's name appears on official records instead of individual names. When drafting a Maryland Declaration of Trust, it is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney well-versed in trust and estate laws to ensure compliance and address specific circumstances.