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Estate Planning

Wills and Estate Planning

We provide comprehensive representation in estate planning, the drafting of wills and handling of probate matters.  These issues overlap significantly with the real estate issues we encounter consistently.  Our objectives are to minimize the risk and amount of estate and income taxes; carry out the wishes and priorities of the client; and make sure the legal issues are handled correctly and efficiently if the client dies or is incapacitated.

Our attorneys and staff work hard to provide efficient, competitively priced basic wills and related documents.  If the client has the information together, we can prepare the basic documents in one meeting.  Too often, a basic will package is put off because clients do not want to spend the time focusing on property and transition issues.  By handling the process quickly and efficiently, we minimize the delays and procrastination that often accompany this process.

We also work with high net worth individuals on estate planning.  Most of these individuals are businesspeople who are interested in the preservation of their business as well as providing for heirs.  We help our clients to focus on the objectives and values that they have pursued in generating wealth, and to develop estate plans that will further those objectives and values.  In some cases, it is appropriate not just to work with the client, but also with the heirs to reach a mutually acceptable structure for ensuring a smooth transition of assets from one generation to another.  And obviously, we work with clients, accountants, financial planners and other advisers to minimize taxes and maximize investment objectives.

If probate is unavoidable, as it can be with valuable real estate, we handle probate matters and provide the same quality representation as that for our complex civil cases. We are able to open most estates within days of your first appointment.

 

Why Should I have a Will?

DISTRIBUTE YOUR ASSETS  Executing a Last Will and Testament allows you to tell the world who should receive your assets at your passing. If you die without a Will, Washington law determines how your assets will be divided among your family and who will be the beneficiaries of your estate. 

GUARDIAN  You must name the "guardian" of your child(ren) in your Last Will and Testament.  Telling your sister or your best friend that they are the "God parent" of your child(ren) will not do the trick. 

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE  A Last Will and Testament allows you to select a person to “administer” your estate upon your death. This person, often a spouse or close family member (but always someone you trust), will be responsible for paying your debts and taxes, and then distributing all of your assets according to your will. This can be a difficult task and you want to choose someone that will take the job seriously and follow your directions.

FAMILY FUEDS  You may not think that it can happen in your family but people are likely fight over your money and your property when you die. The existence of a Will gives specific directions and tells your friends and family how to distribute your estate. This significantly decreases the chances of a family feud and is proven time and time again to be the best way to avoid conflict.

PROVIDE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES   A Last Will and Testament is your best opportunity to make sure your spouse, children, close friends, church and/or favorite charities are well provided for upon your death.  

CONTROL YOUR PROPERTY   With a Will, you have the power to control what happens to your assets after your passing. Do not give up your right to do so.

FAMILY PETS You can even provide for your family pets in your Last Will and Testament.  You can choose a guardian for your pet and/or set up a trust to provide for "Fido."  Hey, it may sound crazy – but it's more common than you may think.