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Register of Wills · Garrett County · 2026 Primary
The Register of Wills oversees the legal process of settling a person's estate after they pass away, ensuring assets are distributed correctly to heirs and beneficiaries according to the law. This office is responsible for maintaining permanent records of wills and probate documents while also collecting inheritance taxes on behalf of the state. By managing these sensitive transitions, the official ensures the orderly and transparent transfer of property within the community.
View all candidates in this raceRita L. Watson is a Garrett County native and current Register of Wills, seeking re-election in 2026. A graduate of Southern Garrett High School, Watson joined the Garrett County Register of Wills office on April 1, 1979, and was appointed Chief Deputy Register of Wills that same September, serving in that role for 30 years under the late Register Joseph DiSimone. She was appointed Register of Wills by the Garrett County Orphans' Court on July 1, 2009, and has held the position through multiple election cycles since. A Republican, she is a member of the Maryland Register of Wills Association, where she has served as secretary, an associate member of the Judges of the Orphans' Court Association, and is active in the Southern Garrett Republican Club and the Garrett County Republican Women's Club. The Garrett County Register of Wills Office has received consistent recognition from the Maryland Comptroller's Office for maintaining a perfect record in random state audits.