Contesting a Will in Washington State is legally possible, but only under specific circumstances and within a strict four-month deadline from the time the Will is admitted to probate (RCW 11.24.010). To initiate a Will contest, you must be an “interested party”—such as a disinherited heir, a beneficiary from a prior Will, or a creditor. Valid reasons for challenging a Will include lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, improper execution, or the existence of a newer Will.
Ensure your estate plan doesn't turn into a spooky surprise this Halloween! Our latest blog explores why creating or updating your estate plan is critical for protecting your loved ones. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls like outdated documents, family disputes, and probate delays. We provide key insights into wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and more to help you secure your assets and wishes. Halloween is a perfect time to plan for the unpredictable—don’t let your legacy haunt your family. Get the peace of mind you deserve today!
If you reside in Washington, understanding the estate tax is crucial for safeguarding your assets and ensuring your loved ones aren’t burdened with unnecessary taxes. Proper estate planning can help minimize or avoid estate taxes through strategic gifting, irrevocable trusts, life insurance policies, and leveraging the marital deduction. With the federal estate tax exemption set to drop significantly in 2026, now is the time to review your estate plan. Consulting an experienced Spokane estate planning attorney ensures your estate strategy aligns with current tax laws, helping you preserve wealth and protect your legacy.
Opening probate is the first step in settling a deceased loved one’s estate, and the process can feel overwhelming—especially for first-time personal representatives. This article explains the probate process in Washington State, including the difference between testate (with a valid will) and intestate (without a will) estates. It outlines how to petition the court for appointment as a personal representative, the required documents, and the role of non-intervention powers in simplifying estate administration. Key responsibilities include identifying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property to heirs or beneficiaries. The article also highlights the costs associated with probate and the possibility of compensation for the personal representative. For guidance through this complex legal process, the article recommends consulting an experienced Spokane probate attorney to ensure a smooth and lawful administration.
Washington State’s legal system is governed by the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), which consists of statutes enacted by the legislature and signed into law, and the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), which regulates state agencies. RCWs are categorized by Title, Chapter, and Section, covering areas like estate planning (Title 11) and criminal law (Title 9A), while WACs guide agency decision-making and enforcement. Since laws and regulations evolve, staying informed is essential, but legal matters can be complex. At The Whipple Law Group, we help clients navigate the legal system with clarity and confidence.
A personal representative—also called an executor or administrator—is entrusted with managing and settling a deceased person’s estate. Their duties include collecting assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the will or state law. This role often involves initiating probate court proceedings, gathering necessary documents, and managing estate assets until distribution. The personal representative must carefully navigate legal requirements while handling sensitive family matters, often requiring collaboration with attorneys and financial professionals to ensure proper estate administration.
Estate planning goes hand-in-hand with probate. Probate serves to legally transfer your assets to your heirs. Estate planning ensures that your assets are transferred in the manner you decide. You maintain control as to who receives your property and in what shares. Working with an experienced at...