Probate

I’ll Get to it Later: Estate Planning Excuses That Don’t Hold Up

June 5, 2025

Estate planning is easy to delay, but waiting can lead to stress, confusion, and added expense. Learn from a Seattle estate planning lawyer why Washington residents of all ages and asset levels should consider creating or updating an estate plan now, not later.

Do You Have to Pay Your Deceased Spouse’s Debts in Washington State?

May 8, 2025

Learn how community property laws, probate, and estate planning affect what you may owe for your deceased spouse's debts in Washington state.

Gene Hackman, Simultaneous Death, and Washington Estate Planning

April 24, 2025

Hear from an experienced Seattle estate planning attorney how a simultaneous death clause could impact your Washington state estate plan.

Washington Probate: Paying the Decedent’s Debts, Tax Returns, and Distributing the Estate

April 15, 2025

Learn from an experienced Seattle estate planning lawyer what happens if someone dies owing a debt. Does the debt go away when they die? The final article in a three-part series about probate in Washington state.

The Importance of Regular Estate Plan Reviews and Updates

January 9, 2025

Learn from a King County, Washington state estate planning attorney the importance of regular estate plan reviews and updates.

Tax-Efficient Estate Planning: Strategies to Preserve Your Wealth

November 21, 2024

When You Have No One to Trust for Key Roles in Your Estate Plan

October 17, 2024

A Seattle estate planning attorney can help guide you about who to choose for key roles in your estate plan.

Joint Tenancy vs. Co-Tenancy for Unmarried Couples in Washington

September 19, 2024

A Seattle estate planning attorney can guide unmarried couples who plan on owning real property together in Washington state.

Using Transfer-on-Death Deeds to Avoid Probate in Washington State

August 29, 2024

A Seattle estate planning attorney can guide you on using transfer-on-death deeds to avoid probate in Washington state.

How To Avoid Family Disputes Over Your Property

February 16, 2023

Far too many families end up fighting, or at least experiencing tension, over a family inheritance, but it does not have to be that way. Having counseled families for years, we offer the following advice to help your family avoid fighting over your property — while you are here and after you die.