Estate Planning FAQs

Book a virtual consultation. We will meet over Zoom to discuss your family, goals, and which package fits your situation.

Yes, the initial consultation is free. During that meeting we will discuss your situation, goals, and which package is the right fit. Pricing for your will or trust package is discussed during the consultation based on the complexity of your plan.

Most plans are completed within three to six weeks from your initial consultation, depending on complexity and scheduling.

Yes. From consultation through signing guidance, the entire process happens over Zoom. We serve clients across all of Washington State.

All of them. Our practice is built for Seattle and the Eastside, including Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Issaquah and Mercer Island, and because we are 100% virtual we also serve clients statewide, from Spokane and the Tri-Cities to Tacoma, Olympia and Bellingham.

It depends on your goals, assets, and family situation. A will works well for straightforward estates. A trust adds probate avoidance, privacy, and more control over distributions.

A will-based estate plan centres on a Last Will and Testament that directs how your assets are distributed. It also names guardians for minor children and can include a minor's trust.

No. A will goes through probate, the court-supervised process that validates your will and oversees distribution. Probate in Washington is generally straightforward but takes time and is public.

Yes. Many families start with a will-based plan and add a trust as their estate grows or circumstances change.

A revocable living trust is a legal entity you create during your lifetime to hold assets. You maintain full control as trustee and can modify or revoke it at any time. Assets in the trust transfer without probate.

A trust avoids probate, provides privacy, gives more control over the timing of distributions, and can help coordinate real estate transfers. It is often best if you own property or have complex family dynamics.

A pour-over will works alongside your trust. If any assets are not transferred into your trust during your lifetime, it directs them into the trust after you pass away.

Yes. The Custom Trust Package includes a quitclaim deed for one property to transfer it into your trust. Additional properties can be transferred for an additional fee.

A financial power of attorney appoints someone you trust to manage your financial affairs, such as paying bills, managing accounts and handling investments, if you become incapacitated.

A medical power of attorney, sometimes called a health care proxy, names someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to communicate your wishes.

An advance directive documents your wishes about end-of-life care, life-sustaining treatment, and comfort measures. It gives your family clarity during an incredibly difficult time.

Custom Will Packages start at $3,000 for an individual and $3,500 for a couple. Custom Trust Packages start at $4,000 individual and $5,000 couple. Final pricing depends on complexity.

Every document is custom-drafted for your specific situation under Washington law. You also get direct access to your attorney throughout the process.

You receive your final signed documents along with clear instructions for safe storage and sharing with key people. If circumstances change later, we are here to help with updates.

Our practice focuses on estate planning, creating documents and plans that help your family avoid complications. For probate assistance, we can refer you to trusted colleagues.

Blended families, including second marriages, stepchildren and prior relationships, need careful planning to ensure everyone is protected and intentions are clear. We tailor plans for these dynamics.

Yes. Washington allows pet trusts that provide legally enforceable care instructions and funding for your animals. We include pet planning in our estate planning conversations.

Once your child turns 18, you can no longer access their medical records or make decisions for them without HIPAA authorizations and powers of attorney. We help families put these documents in place.

Absolutely. Without a plan, courts decide who manages your affairs and who inherits your assets. An estate plan ensures the people you choose are in charge.

Yes. Washington law allows you to leave your assets to anyone you choose, including friends, partners and charitable organisations. Your estate plan documents your wishes clearly.

Review your estate plan every three to five years or after major life events: marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, a significant change in assets, or a move to a new state.

Yes. If your estate may be subject to Washington's estate tax, where the current exemption is approximately $3 million, we discuss strategies such as disclaimer trusts or credit shelter trusts during your consultation.