Probate

Debunking Common Myths About Probate in Washington State

Debunking Common Myths About Probate in Washington State

Probate is often a misunderstood and daunting process that many individuals find themselves facing during challenging times. In Washington State, probate involves the legal distribution of a deceased person's assets and settling of their estate. Unfortunately, several myths surround probate, causing confusion and unnecessary stress for those involved. In this blog post, we aim to debunk some common myths about probate in Washington State, providing clarity for individuals navigating this complex legal terrain.

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Probate in Washington State

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Probate in Washington State

Probate is a legal process that takes place after someone passes away, involving the distribution of their assets and settling their debts. In Washington State, the probate process follows specific rules and regulations. This blog post aims to provide a guide to understanding probate in Washington, including key steps, general timelines, and important considerations.

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Ancillary Probate: When Is It Used, Where It Occurs, and How to Avoid It

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Ancillary Probate: When Is It Used, Where It Occurs, and How to Avoid It

Many people own property in more than one state—perhaps a vacation home in Oregon, a rental property in a former home state, or even a car titled in another state. It is important to think about how that property will be handled as you create an estate plan. It may be necessary for there to be an additional probate proceeding called ancillary probate. Through proper estate planning, however, this result can be made less burdensome or even avoided.

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What to do when someone dies

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What to do when someone dies

While this isn’t a cheerful topic, it is a necessary one. Sooner or later, someone you know will pass on. The purpose of this blog post is to give you a checklist for what to do in the minutes, days, and weeks following death. In Washington State, it usually takes about a year to “wind down” someone’s life — but you should have assistance of a probate attorney after the first week or two. If death is anticipated, it is helpful to think about these steps before someone passes, so that you can be ready.