Creating a trust as part of your estate plan can be a great decision. When properly structured and funded, a trust can protect your assets from creditors, help you qualify for government benefits as you age and reduce the likelihood of people challenging your legacy...
Estate Planning
Rethink DIY estate planning
Online tools and books offer estate planning resources to create a will, powers of attorney, executor and more without the help of a lawyer. But, this “one size fits all” marketing approach doesn’t compare to the professional advice that an attorney can individually...
What you need to know about the power of attorney
Power of attorney is a misunderstood aspect of the law, as most people do not understand the full ramifications of the title. In Seattle, the most common form of power of attorney is called a durable power of attorney. This title comes with certain rights about your...
Should you execute a “springing” power of attorney?
As you are preparing your estate plan, you will probably think about what you would like done if you become incapacitated due to an illness or injury. You already know that you want a power of attorney allowing someone to make health care and financial decisions on...
Do you suspect an estate executor of stealing?
Losing a loved one means that a lot of changes will come about. You will need to learn to live your life without your loved one around, which can be particularly difficult if you had a close relationship. If you did have a close relationship, you likely anticipate...
If an executor shirks duties, removal may be necessary
The passing of a loved one is almost always a difficult event to handle. You may have anticipated your loved one's passing for some time due to old age or illness, but it still hit hard when the time came. Still, you anticipated receiving something from the estate...
Don’t let mistakes ruin your estate plan
Planning for the future can be a complicated and emotionally challenging process. After all, it's not easy to think about what will happen to personal property and assets after passing on. Estate planning is a beneficial step for everyone regardless of income level or...
Do you suspect undue influence with your loved one’s will?
The passing of a loved one can cause many hardships. You may be upset emotionally as you work to accept the fact that your family member is no longer around, and you could even face other burdens depending on how significant of a role the person played in running your...
Your estate plan can be a legacy of love
Many who think of leaving a plan for the end of their lives may think only of a will. While a will can certainly be a starting point, a complete estate plan can include many more options. More than simply assigning who can claim your belongings after you die, you can...
Are you concerned that your kids will fight over your estate?
Wanting to get your final affairs in order is admirable. You may have a number of assets to consider, complex assets or multiple beneficiaries to take into account. Whatever your exact circumstances, estate planning can help make sure that your final wishes are known....