Probate is the court process used to transfer certain assets after someone passes away. Depending on the circumstances, probate can take time, cost money, and require court filings and other administrative steps. Another concern for many families is privacy. Probate...
If you own real estate and want to make sure it passes to someone you choose when you die, you may have heard about a Transfer on Death Deed, often called a TODD. A Transfer on Death Deed is a legal document that allows you to name someone who will receive your real...
Many people believe estate planning is only necessary once you own a home, have children, or reach a certain age. But estate planning is not just about how much money you have or what you own. It is about protecting you, making your wishes known, and giving someone...
Many parents assume estate planning is something they can handle later in life. But if you have young children, estate planning is something you should prioritize immediately. As an estate planning attorney, one of the most important conversations I have with parents...
Let me ask you a question. If something happened to your parents tomorrow, would you know: Where their will is? Who makes medical decisions for them? Or what their actual wishes are for their care and assets? For most families, the answer is no. Not because they don’t...
Probate delays are often caused by simple, avoidable mistakes. Understanding these common issues can save time, reduce frustration, and help keep the process moving forward smoothly. One frequent mistake is incomplete or incorrect paperwork. Probate forms must be...
One of the first responsibilities after being appointed as personal representative in a Washington probate is providing notice. This step often causes stress because it involves deadlines, legal language, and the fear of “doing it wrong.” Two key pieces of this...
If you are handling probate in Washington, you may hear the term “Letters Testamentary” early on and wonder what they actually are — and why everyone seems to need them. Despite the formal name, Letters Testamentary are simply a key tool that allows you to do your job...
Many people create a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare as part of their estate plan, but are not entirely sure when it actually comes into play. A common question we hear is: Does this document give someone control over my medical decisions right away?...
While probate is part of settling many estates, it’s not required for every type of asset. Some assets are designed to transfer directly to beneficiaries—saving time, money, and unnecessary stress. Below are the most common assets that avoid probate in Washington...