Riach Gese Jacobs PLLC | Representing Community since 1959

Speak with one of our attorneys today. 425-329-7857

Riach Gese Jacobs PLLC | Representing Community since 1959
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Representing Our Community Since 1959

Lynnwood, Washington, Lawyers for Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning

When it comes to estate planning, you have a lot of choices. Your plan could include a variety of trusts, a will, and other strategic plans designed to save your heirs and estate both time and money.

At Riach Gese Jacobs PLLC, our goal is not to sell you as many estate planning products as possible; rather, our goal is to help you create a specially tailored estate plan that is right for you. With offices in Lynnwood, our attorneys are available to discuss your needs and answer your estate planning questions. Please e-mail or call us at 425-329-7857.

Trustworthy Guidance From Planning to Probate

Since our establishment in 1959, Riach Gese Jacobs PLLC has helped countless people in Lynnwood, Seattle, and the surrounding areas of Washington. Our longevity can be traced to the fact that we provide honest, straightforward guidance to all of our clients. No matter the situation, we provide personal attention and get to know the wishes of the people we represent.

In planning for end-of-life issues and the distribution of assets, there are numerous options and resources available. When you choose our attorneys to assist you with your estate planning needs, we listen to your goals and identify the estate planning tools that are truly right for you. These tools may include wills, revocable or irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney, and asset protection strategies.

No matter what estate planning tools you choose, we want to make certain that you understand the full range of the various options. To that end, we take great care to offer honest guidance and personalized plans to meet your unique needs. That is the value of personal attention.

Resolution for All Estate and Elder Law Concerns

In addition to estate planning guidance, Riach Gese Jacobs PLLC offers a wide range of services pertaining to estate and elder law. For more than 40 years, our attorneys have worked with individuals and families to resolve matters such as:

Frequently Asked Questions On Wills, Trusts And Estate Planning

Planning for your estate is essential to protect your assets and help ensure your wishes are honored. Below are common questions about estate planning in Washington State.

What happens if I die without a will or estate plan in Washington State?

If you die without a will or estate plan in Washington, your assets will be distributed according to the state’s intestacy laws. Generally, the law prioritizes family members such as spouses, children and parents. Executors or administrators will be appointed by the court to manage your estate, which can lead to additional time and costs.

Without a proper estate plan:

  • Your assets may not go to the people you intended.
  • The court may decide who manages your estate.
  • Family members may face conflicts or delays in receiving their inheritance.

This process may not reflect your personal wishes. Having a Washington estate planning attorney can help ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and reduce the risk of disputes.

What are a trustee’s duties and liabilities in Washington?

A trustee in Washington manages a trust for the benefit of the beneficiaries. Trustees have legal obligations and must act in the best interests of those beneficiaries.

Key duties include:

  • Managing trust assets responsibly and prudently.
  • Keeping accurate records and providing regular accountings to beneficiaries.
  • Acting impartially and avoiding conflicts of interest.
  • Communicating regularly with beneficiaries about trust activities.
  • Following the terms of the trust precisely as written.

Failure to meet these duties can lead to personal liability for losses or legal disputes. Hiring a Washington trust attorney can help trustees understand their responsibilities and minimize risks.

Does Washington have an inheritance or estate tax that trusts can help with?

Washington does not have a state inheritance tax, but it does impose a state estate tax on estates exceeding certain thresholds. Trusts can be structured to help reduce estate taxes, protect assets and provide for heirs efficiently.

Proper planning with a Washington estate and trust attorney can help families:

  • Minimize estate tax liability.
  • Protect assets for future generations.
  • Have smooth management and distribution of the estate.
  • Provide clear instructions for guardianship or care of dependents.
  • Avoid probate delays and reduce potential legal disputes.

Working with an experienced attorney helps ensure your estate plan and trusts meet legal requirements and achieve your goals while providing peace of mind for your loved ones.

We can begin assisting you as soon as you tell us about your situation. Please e-mail or call us at 425-329-7857 today. We look forward to explaining how we can help you.