Who Can Help Create a Durable Power of Attorney in WA State
Most of us do not like to think about it, but what happens if we are unable to make our own decisions regarding our health and finances? Who is going to make those decisions for us? Are the decisions being made what we would decide if we could? Having a durable power of attorney in…
How Does A Meretricious Relationship Affect an Estate Plan?
How does a meretricious relationship affect an estate plan Washington state does not recognize common law marriage. Instead, Washington State looks at a long-term, committed relationship as a meretricious relationship or cohabitation. Being in a meretricious relationship versus being legally married can affect what happens to your property and assets should one of you become…
Ready to Write Your Will? DIY Estate Planning
A last will and testament is the most commonly thought of document when it comes to an estate plan. But, really; it’s a very small part of an integrated plan that ensures your family stays out of Court and out of conflict when something happens to you. Don’t think you can just write your own…
What is the Value of a Cheap Estate Plan?
Here are five reasons why shopping for a cheap estate plan is likely to leave you with a plan that won’t work for your family and will leave them with a big mess instead. Bargain Hunting is Not Always a Good Deal The least expensive plan is not always even worth the paper it is…
How to Help Your Family Use Your Estate Planning Forms in An Emergency
In an emergency, everything is chaotic and stressful. Family members are often distraught and unable to clearly (and quickly) think about your wishes. What will happen to your children if you and your spouse are no longer able to care for them or yourselves? How will your family know your wishes or have access to…
5 Simple Ways a Guardianship Attorney Can Help You Today
Having a short conversation with a guardianship attorney is enough to start your path to protecting your family. Almost immediately you start to brainstorm how scenarios – good, bad, and weird, might affect you and your children. And that last piece truly is the value of talking to a guardianship attorney, setting up contingency plans…
Durable Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy, and Wills: What You Need to Know
The estate planning process encompasses a range of important legal and financial matters. No one likes to think about death or dying, yet it is important to be prepared in case of an emergency. Especially, for instance, young parents who have minor children…what will happen to your kids if something happens to you? The “Durable”…
Financial and Legal Planning for Unmarried Couples: Should You Legally Marry or Not?
Do you know about financial and legal planning for unmarried couples? While the Supreme Court issued a landmark decision to legalize same-sex marriage, many modern couples still choose against marriage. If you are inquiring about whether to legally get married, be sure to consider these important factors. Financial and Legal Protections If you are partnered…
How Legal Planning Helps Build a Strong Blended Family
How can legal planning help build a strong blended family? The blended family is the product of second (or more) marriages, in which one or more of the parties comes with children from a prior marriage. And then, they may even go on to have children together. If you have or are part of a…
A Young Family’s Guide to a Rock Solid Estate Plan
What does a young family need for a rock solid estate plan? If you are under 40 years old, the chances of you have thought about, or even pursuing estate planning is pretty small. However, something brought you here, and that means you are on your way to changing the way you look at planning…