Maryland § 9-203

Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 9-203, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9-203.

    (a)    Except for a disclaimer under § 9-204 or § 9-205 of this subtitle, the following rules apply to a disclaimer of an interest in property.

    (b)    The disclaimer takes effect as of the time the instrument creating the interest becomes irrevocable or if the interest arose under the law of intestate succession, as of the time of the intestate’s death.

    (c)    The disclaimed interest passes according to any provision in the instrument creating the interest providing for the disposition of the interest, should it be disclaimed, or of disclaimed interests in general.

    (d)    If the instrument does not contain a provision described in subsection (c) of this section, the following rules apply:

        (1)    (i)    If the disclaimant is an individual, the disclaimed interest passes as if the disclaimant died immediately before the time of distribution; or

            (ii)    If by law or under the instrument the descendants of the disclaimant would share in the disclaimed interest by any method of representation had the disclaimant died before the time of distribution, the disclaimed interest passes only to the descendants of the disclaimant who survive the time of distribution; or

        (2)    If the disclaimant is not an individual, the disclaimed interest passes as if the disclaimant did not exist.

    (e)    On the disclaimer of a preceding interest, a future interest held by a person other than the disclaimant takes effect as if the disclaimant had died or ceased to exist immediately before the time of distribution, but a future interest held by the disclaimant is not accelerated in possession or enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 9-203

What does Maryland Code § 9-203 cover?

Section 9-203 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maryland § 9-203?

A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 9-203" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maryland law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.

How does Maryland § 9-203 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.