Thomas C. Valkenet

I am a 36 year veteran of the Maryland and District of Columbia court systems. There is little that would surprise us!

University of Baltimore School of Law

J.D. | Law

1983 - 1986

Saint Anselm College

B.A. | Political Science

1979 - 1983

Bow-riding, a reckless practice and already illegal in Maryland.

Linkedin- Thomas C. Valkenet

December 9, 2016

Trial Reporter, "The Limited Appearance in Maryland Civil Litigation"

The Maryland Association for Justice

September, 2016

Maryland Professionalism Center, Inc.

Instructor, Civil Litigation

2012 - 2013

Activities: Newly admitted lawyers in Maryland must attend a course on Professionalism and ethics. Thomas is an instructor on civility and professionalism in civil litigation.

District of Columbia

Since 1988

Maryland

Since 1987

U.S. Supreme Court

Since 2010

• Free Consultation

• General Civil

Q. Does a MD HOA have to disclose to the home buyer HOA violations that were given to buyer prior to sale of the home?

September 20, 2024

A: Yes. And this is most often something your real estate agent obtains. Most HOA's have a "resale package" that must be requested by the Seller, at a fee of $50-$200. The HOA then compiles its records, including open violations, and the package is delivered to the buyer within the statutorily required period. Get with your agent on this, and follow the time line in your contract HOA addendum.

Q. Can an easement on our property to our neighbors house be closed if they have an alternative driveway on their land?

June 17, 2024

A: A common issue. A recorded easement may be extinguished by a new recording, executed by all. You may have claims for mis-use or over-burdening, but the recorded instrument grants the rights, whatever it says. The concept of "necessity" is irrelevant to a recorded easement. The neighbor could have a dozen recorded easements, and yours would remain binding. A recorded easement may be abandoned, but your facts do not appear to support this claim.

The short answer is that you will not get a definite answer unless a lawyer actually reads your instrument and discusses the surrounding facts with you.

Q. My sister gave me unimproved lot in Hilo. I never signed anything. Want to give the property back.What do I do?

June 13, 2024

A: And does "gave me" include recording a deed? The answer to that question will determine what any lawyer can tell you.

If no deed, simply refuse to accept it.

If a deed, consider selling it. Otherwise, you will need the grantor to join in another instrument renouncing or re-titling the land.

Developers are always seeking unimproved lots.