Probate In Washington State
A probate is how the court authorizes an appointed Personal Representative to pay necessary bills, access bank accounts, file taxes, sell or transfer belongings including real estate, and generally ensure that the law is followed when distributing what a deceased person owned. Regardless of whether your deceased loved one made a will or not, a probate is typically required in Washington when a Washington state resident passes away with real estate in their name or other assets worth $100,000 or more.
Each state is different, but fortunately in Washington State a probate of an estate valued at under $2 million is often relatively quick and inexpensive.
Our team at Alliance Law Group, PS, has over 75 years of combined experience handling estate planning and probate matters for our clients in Tacoma and the surrounding areas. For decades, we have diligently assisted families in securing their legacies and making sure their wishes are honored during the probate process.
Understanding The Probate Process
In Washington, the probate process involves the following steps:
- Filing a petition
- Appointing an executor
- Inventorying assets
- Notifying creditors
- Paying debts and taxes
- Distributing assets
- Closing the estate
Probate timelines can vary depending on the estate’s complexity, the involved parties’ cooperation, and any potential legal challenges that may arise during the process. Alliance Law Group, PS probate attorneys can help streamline the estate administration process and assist with transferring assets smoothly to intended beneficiaries or heirs.
If your loved one has passed and you are looking for a lawyer who cares about your priorities and can help you regardless of the type of probate or estate-related problem you have, please Email us or call 253-300-2055 and ask to meet with an attorney at Alliance Law Group, PS.
Estate Planning To Avoid Probate
Depending on your situation, a detailed estate plan may be able to help you avoid a probate by transforming your belongings into ‘non-probate’ assets. If you wish to avoid probate in Washington, you should ask us about:
- Naming beneficiaries for retirement accounts and life insurance policies;
- Utilizing payable on death (POD) options for bank accounts and securities;
- Creating and recording a transfer on death deed (TODD) for real property;
- Signing a Community Property Agreement;
- Establishing a revocable living trust; and
- Gifting assets during your lifetime.
With legal guidance from our team at Alliance Law Group, PS, you will be able to determine the best approach to estate planning for your specific circumstances.
Get In Touch Today
Strategic planning can ensure a smooth transfer of assets to your loved ones, help you avoid taxes, and possibly even avoid probate. Contact us now to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your legacy. Email us or call 253-300-2055 to get started.