When a friend or loved one passes away with a validly executed last will and testament, the Washington state law requires that the will be filed with the local court. In most situations, a probate must be opened to give a personal representative (executor) the authority to pay the debts of the estate and distribute assets to the heirs. Our compassionate attorneys can help you through this process and bring it to a satisfactory conclusion.

Sometimes, a friend or loved one passes away without a validly executed last will and testament. In these cases, state law determines who should manage the estate and how the decedent's estate is to be distributed. In some situations, a probate must be opened to give a personal representative (executor) the authority to pay the debts of the estate and distribute assets to the statutory heirs. Our compassionate attorneys will walk with you through these sometimes challenging situations .

Many people have establised trusts to help manage their assets after their passing. Sometimes trusts must be created after someone's passing to manage assets for heirs who are under the age of 18. Our attorneys will help you undestand and manage the trust established by a decedent in a careful and efficient manner.

Washington State permits several probate alternatives for qualifying estates. 

Lack of Probate Affidavit: Certain properties can be transferred or sold without the need for a probate.

Small Estate Affidavit: Estates with less than $100,000 in value can be disposed of without a judicial process.

Contact our office to learn whether your situation may qualify for these or other alternatives.