Estate Planning

Creating a living trust can be an important part of an estate plan, but signing the document is not always the final step. If assets are not properly coordinated with the trust, the trust may not control or receive those assets as intended after your death. That can...

A will can do more than name who receives your property. It can also create a trust that controls how and when a beneficiary receives assets. This arrangement, called a testamentary trust, can help someone provide an inheritance while keeping assets under management...

Many people delay estate planning because they believe it is only necessary later in life. However, failing to create an estate plan can leave important decisions about your property, finances and family in the hands of Washington state laws. When someone dies without...

Choosing a personal representative is one of the most important parts of estate planning. This person will manage your affairs after you pass away. They will distribute assets, pay debts and carry out your wishes. Choosing the right person can help your family move...

If you do not have children, you may assume estate planning has little to offer you. But while you may not need to name a guardian or manage a child's inheritance, you still face important decisions about your future and property. An estate plan can document your...

Congratulations on welcoming a new member to your family! With your busy schedule, you likely have new priorities to focus on: your child’s future and how your will directly shapes it. Here’s why you should consider adding a will to your family’s plan. Why should you...

Estate planning is rarely the top priority for a newly married couple. However, since Washington is a community property state, making early estate planning decisions is a smart way to protect your spouse and ensure your combined assets are handled according to your...

Blended families are beautiful as they bring a diverse group of people under one roof. However, they also introduce a unique layer of complexity when it comes to inheritance. Here are some crucial challenges to watch out for.   The friction between children and the...

When you think about estate planning, you likely focus on what happens after you pass away. However, a revocable living trust can also provide protection if you become ill or incapacitated during your lifetime. Understanding how this legal tool works can help you make...

An estate plan may feel settled once you sign it and store it away. But the decisions you made five or ten years ago might not reflect who you are today or what you value most. The people you trust, the property you own and the choices you want others to honor may...