# Courts and Judicial Proceedings (GCJ)

## Title 10. Evidence

### Subtitle 8. Simultaneous Death

#### Section 10-801

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) "Co-owner with right of survivorship" includes:

  (1) A joint tenant;

  (2) A tenant by the entirety; and

  (3) A co-owner of property or an account that entitles remaining co-owners to the whole of the property or account on the death of another.

(c)

  (1) "Governing instrument" means a dispositive, appointive, or nominative instrument of any type.

  (2) "Governing instrument" includes:

    (i) An account with a payable-on-death designation;

    (ii) A deed;

    (iii) An insurance or annuity policy;

    (iv) A power of attorney;

    (v) A pension, or a profit-sharing, retirement, or similar benefit plan;

    (vi) A trust;

    (vii) A will; and

    (viii) An instrument creating or exercising a power of appointment.

(d)

  (1) "Payor" means a person who is authorized or obligated by law or other governing instrument to make payments.

  (2) "Payor" includes:

    (i) A trustee;

    (ii) An insurer;

    (iii) A business entity;

    (iv) An employer; and

    (v) A government or a government agency, subdivision, or instrumentality.

---

Md. Code Ann., Cts. & Jud. Proc. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)