My Vision for Compassionate and Effective Estate Guidance

When families lose a loved one, they should not have to navigate confusion, uncertainty, and complicated systems alone. I believe the Register of Wills office should serve as a trusted guide for families during one of the most difficult moments in their lives; and serve with professionalism, compassion, and clarity.

As a licensed social worker, certified death doula, licensed foster parent, and former member of the Prince George’s County Board of Education, my life’s work has centered around supporting people through major life transitions. I have walked alongside families in moments of grief, change, uncertainty, and healing. Those experiences have shaped my understanding of what compassionate public service should look like.

After losing my father in 2024 and my grandmother before him, I also experienced firsthand how overwhelming the administrative process following the loss of a loved one can become. During a time of grief, families are often asked to navigate legal documents, deadlines, court procedures, and unfamiliar systems. That experience strengthened my belief that the Register of Wills office must not only operate efficiently - it must also lead with empathy and dignity.

Why This Office Matters

Many people are unfamiliar with the role of the Register of Wills until they suddenly find themselves responsible for handling a loved one’s estate.

The office plays an important role in:

• Probate administration

• Estate filings and recordkeeping

• Guardianship matters

• Helping families navigate legal and administrative processes after a loss

For many families, these systems can feel intimidating and difficult to understand. I believe residents deserve an office that communicates clearly, treats people with respect, and helps families feel supported during difficult transitions.

My Priorities for the Register of Wills Office

If elected, I want to focus on making the office more accessible, transparent, and responsive to the needs of Prince George’s County families.

Clearer Communication

Families should understand what steps they need to take and what resources are available to them. I believe the office should provide information in ways that are easy to access and understand.

Compassionate Public Service

People interacting with the Register of Wills office are often grieving. Every interaction should be handled with professionalism, patience, and care.

Modernization and Accessibility

Government services should work efficiently for residents. I support modernizing systems and improving access to information so families can navigate the probate process with less stress and confusion.

Protecting Family Legacies

For many families, estates represent generations of hard work, sacrifice, and wealth-building. I believe the office has an important responsibility to help families preserve those legacies with integrity and transparency.

Honoring Lives. Preserving Legacies.

My campaign is rooted in the belief that public service should center people first. The Register of Wills office exists at a deeply personal moment in people’s lives, and I believe families deserve leadership that combines professionalism with compassion.

That is why I am running for this office.

Vote Jocelyn Route for Register of Wills in Prince George’s County.