Probate & Trust Administration

The death of a loved one is very emotional, yet at the same time families often have many legal and financial questions and concerns. Accessing funds and transferring assets after a person dies can be challenging and may require a court proceeding called probate.

A probate is a court process that ensures that the deceased person’s property is distributed according to the terms of their will or by a statutory scheme if there is no will. The Washington State probate process is generally less complicated and less expensive than it is in other states because the role of the court is usually minimal if a well-drafted Will is in place.

We view the navigation of the probate process as a partnership between your Executor and our firm. We understand the process, the legal framework, and the potential pitfalls. We guide the Executor through what can be a complex and troubling time. In doing so, we never forget that we are working with real people who have lost a loved one. We work with as much compassion as possible and try to move the process along at a pace that will still allow your family to grieve.

Sometimes a probate can be avoided by the use various methods, including the proper implementation of a revocable trust to manage your estate upon death. Although the administration of a revocable (living) trust upon death is designed to avoid the court process of probating a decedent’s will, the tasks involved in the administration of a trust upon death as are similar to those involved in the probate of a will. We will assist your Trustee in fulfilling the terms of your trust upon your passing to assure that your wishes, as expressed in the trust, are fulfilled in a timely, lawful, and efficient manner.

Our goal is to honor your intentions while dealing with your family and heirs in a helpful and supportive way.