April 2021

3 Steps to an Ironclad Prenuptial Agreement

What Is a CR2A and Why Do I Want One?

CR2A refers to Court Rule 2A, a Washington State civil rule which governs agreements made out of court. In simple terms, if you and/or your attorneys sign an agreement during mediation, for example, or sometime before a trial, that agreement will be enforceable in court.

Is it Time for a Legal Checkup?

Is it Time for a Legal Checkup?

It’s important to visit your physician when you notice some change in your health. A medical checkup offers you a chance to discuss issues with your doctor, ask questions, and get professional input on your overall health. Like your annual checkup with your doctor, a regular review of your estate plan with your attorney will help you minimize the risk of future unexpected hardships that might arise from incomplete or outdated documents.

The Importance of Family Dinners After Divorce

The Importance of Family Dinners After Divorce

With the chaos typical during a divorce, it can be easy to let certain traditions fall through the cracks. One common tradition that often falls by the wayside is the family dinner. However, family dinners after divorce can be an important part of the recovery process for everyone, including your ex. Here are a few reasons why.

Getting Divorced? It’s Time To Let Your Wildflowers Grow

Getting Divorced? It’s Time To Let Your Wildflowers Grow

No one gets married with the expectation they will divorce, and the circumstances surrounding divorce are often unpredictable and heartbreaking. The good news is your divorce doesn’t just mark the end of your marriage. It can also signify the beginning of a period of growth for you.

Should I Include My Retirement And Investment Accounts in My Estate Plan?

Should I Include My Retirement And Investment Accounts in My Estate Plan?

Probate is the court-supervised process of gathering your assets, paying off your debts and taxes, and distributing what’s left of your estate to your heirs and beneficiaries. However, that doesn’t have to include all assets. Your retirement and investment assets have the potential to bypass probate if located in the type of accounts that can transfer upon death to a designated beneficiary. When considering whether to include your retirement and investment accounts in your estate plan, here’s what you need to know.

An elderly woman sitting while holder her hands

How Estate Planning Can Prevent Elder Abuse

Stanley, 73 years old, recently passed away. He never married or had any children. Stanley lived alone in his home and was self-sufficient until his health began to decline last year. Not wishing to burden his nieces and nephews, Stanley took it upon himself to hire a home health aide to come to his home and care for him. The pandemic restrictions prevented his niece, Cathy, with whom he had always had a close relationship, from visiting him. However, she called often. She even made an effort to see him but was only allowed window visits by the care worker and never provided the opportunity for in-person visits before his death. Cathy had no idea her uncle was being neglected and abused. To prevent a similar scenario from happening to you or someone you love, here’s what you should know.