Will & Probate

No one wants to think about their death, or a will and many people assume that because they have not amassed a large estate, they do not need a will. Others rely on a draft that they find online, and after the fact learn that the will, they have in hand is unenforceable.

We get it but . . .

There are many reasons why it is very important to create a valid will and other estate planning documents. For example, no matter what your age, you should create a living will. Living wills allow you to designate who will make decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated physically or mentally and become unable to communicate your desires. A thoughtful, valid will memorializing your instructions and desires, removes all doubt for your heirs. It is a parting gift to those you love.

If you are unmarried and die without a standard will, all of your assets and property will go to the nearest living relative under the intestate succession laws in Washington. In such case, your parents, if living, will inherit your property. If your parents are deceased, your property will go to your siblings. However, you may have some items or property you prefer go to another party rather than family members, like a friend, caregiver or unmarried partner. If you die intestate, and have no living relatives, all your hard earned property and assets could go to the state/government.

The way to make sure your desires are executed, and your privacy is maintained after death, is to designate an executor in a valid will who is entrusted with protecting your privacy and carrying out your wishes as memorialized in the will.

Other people may have pets and a will can make sure your pets are cared for. Without a ill, your pets may be given away, surrendered to a shelter or even put to sleep if no one takes responsibility for them.

In fact, we have witnesses too many situations where people have learned the hard way after the fact,how important an enforceable will is.

If you have recently lost a loved one and are struggling with the probate system, it can be frustrating and over whelming. The fine print and the mass of documents with dense legal jargon can be more than you are prepared to deal with as you mourn and yet time is off the essence.

The Law Office of Jeff Jared can provide the following legal services:

• Will drafting
• Will Contests
• Interpretation and analysis of vague provisions
• Codicil preparation
• Notice to potential creditors
• Beneficiary disputes
• Alternative dispute resolution
• Estate litigation