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Register of Wills · Baltimore City · 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 raceShanai Dunmore is a Baltimore native running for Register of Wills who previously served as the office's Chief Deputy. A graduate of Baltimore City Public Schools and the University of Baltimore, she holds a degree in Criminal Justice and has worked in public service since 2005, including a role as a City Council Assistant. Her platform focuses on modernizing the Register of Wills office by upgrading outdated technology and streamlining the probate process to better support families during difficult transitions. As a licensed real estate agent and former deputy, she emphasizes her hands-on understanding of estate administration and property matters. Dunmore advocates for increased transparency, community education, and partnerships with legal aid organizations to improve accessibility for all residents.
Sources: Campaign website
For too long, the Register of Wills office has operated with outdated technology, inefficient probate systems, and inconsistent customer service. It’s time for a change.
Our mission is to educate, streamline, and modernize the Baltimore City Register of Wills office by making estate and probate services more accessible, user-friendly, and technology-driven.
Shanai is not a politician—and that’s exactly what sets her apart. Her mission has always been grounded in uplifting youth and investing in her community.
As Register of Wills, Shanai will deliver more efficient probate processes, modernize record-keeping, and ensure every resident is treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Source: shanaidunmore.com
Modernization & Technology
Upgrading the office's infrastructure to move away from outdated record-keeping and inefficient systems.
“modernizing record-keeping, improving service, and using her voice beyond the office to advocate for resources and opportunities that help Baltimore families thrive.”
Probate Streamlining
Improving the speed and standards of probate processing to better serve families navigating estate matters.
“improving probate processing standards, eliminating outdated record-keeping systems, and enhancing customer service for families navigating estate matters.”
Accessibility & Legal Support
Expanding access to guidance through partnerships with legal aid and pro bono services.
“working with legal aid organizations and pro bono attorneys to expand access to guidance and support.”
Fiscal Accountability
Implementing strict financial oversight to prevent mismanagement.
“enforcing strong financial oversight with zero tolerance for waste or abuse.”
Shanai Dunmore is a Democratic candidate for the Baltimore Register of Wills in the 2026 election, where she faces incumbent Belinda Conaway. Ballotpedia records indicate she previously ran for Baltimore Clerk of the Circuit Court in both 2018 and 2022. Her professional background includes service as a City Council Assistant and Chief Deputy of the Register of Wills Office.
“enforcing strong financial oversight with zero tolerance for waste or abuse.”
Source“improving customer service, accessibility, and community engagement through social media and partnerships with legal aid agencies and pro bono attorneys”
Source“Her mission has always been grounded in uplifting youth and investing in her community.”
Source“receiving her Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice... earning her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice”
Source