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Register of Wills · Carroll County · 2026 Primary
This candidate has withdrawn. Information below reflects their filing at the time of withdrawal.
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 raceTina Mawhinney is a 58-year-old Republican from Westminster, Carroll County who ran for Register of Wills in 2018. She previously owned and operated Tina's Deli in the Westminster Airpark for over 10 years before selling it to focus on public service. She holds a Paralegal Certificate from Carroll Community College and graduated from Francis Scott Key High School in 1978. Mawhinney served two terms as a member of the Carroll County Agricultural Commission and currently works at Carroll County Public Library. She advocates for term limits, noting that the current Register of Wills has held the position for four terms while seeking re-election.
Community Education
Mawhinney wants the Register of Wills to hold more community informational meetings explaining the purpose of the office and what services it provides, addressing groups of all ages to inform them about having a Will.
“The Register of Wills should hold more community informational meetings explaining the purpose of the office. The public should be more informed about the Register of Wills office and what services it provides.”
Term Limits
She advocates for term limits, noting that the current Register of Wills has held the position for four terms (16 years) and is seeking re-election.
“I am also an advocate of term limits. The current Register of Wills has held the position for four terms and is seeking another term.”
Public Service
Mawhinney wants to provide support directly to the public when needed most through the Register of Wills position, which she believes would allow her to commit to public needs on a more personal level.
“After the sale of my restaurant I wanted to continue to serve my community. The Register of Wills position would allow me to provide support directly to the public when it is needed most.”
External sources describe Mawhinney as a former restaurant owner who obtained a Paralegal Certificate to better understand the legal system despite the office not requiring one. She is characterized as compassionate and empathetic with extensive experience leading teams to provide excellent customer service. The Carroll County Times published both a news article about her candidacy in June 2018 and an op-ed letter she wrote herself in May 2018 outlining her platform.
“The Register of Wills should hold more community informational meetings explaining the purpose of the office. The public should be more informed about the Register of Wills office and what services it provides.”
Source“I am also an advocate of term limits. The current Register of Wills has held the position for four terms and is seeking another term.”
Source