Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Seattle

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List of the best lawyers in Seattle, United States

Dorsey & Whitney LLP

Seattle, United States

Founded in 1912

1,390 people in their team

English

worldwide advantageYOUR BUSINESS REQUIRES AN ADVANTAGE, AN EDGE, TO SUCCEED IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WORLD.Dorsey’s lawyers and staff can help you gain that edge by applying superb legal knowledge and skills with practical wisdom and a deep understanding of your business and industry.We serve...

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Perkins Coie LLP

Seattle, United States

Founded in 1912

2,875 people in their team

English

Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients' success. With more than 1,200 attorneys in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate,...

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United States Estate Planning Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 2 legal questions about Estate Planning in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

My husband passed away five years ago. We have a property in th Philippines and I would like to transfer everything to my child. We are now residing in California, as U.S. citizens and my late husband a Filipino citizen.c: Hello:We are sorry to hear about the passing of your husband, and we extend our deepest condolences.Regarding your concern, since your husband was a Filipino citizen and you are now both U.S. citizens residing in California, the property transfer to your child in the Philippines can be lawfully facilitated under Philippine succession laws.Here are some important legal points and possible remedies:1. Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate (if there is no will)If your husband died intestate (without a will), and there are no other compulsory heirs aside from your child, you may execute an Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate with Waiver of Rights in favor of your child. This must be:Signed by you as the surviving spouse,Notarized and registered with the Registry of Deeds,Accompanied by a notarized Affidavit of Self-Adjudication or Waiver, if applicable.If the property is titled in your husband's name, the title must be transferred first to the estate, and then to your child.2. Judicial Settlement (if there is a dispute or complications)If:There are other legal heirs,There is no agreement on the partition,Or if a will exists that needs probate,Then a petition for judicial settlement must be filed before the Philippine court having jurisdiction over the property.3. Tax Clearance & Title TransferTo legally transfer the title, the following must also be secured:BIR Certificate Authorizing Registration (CAR),Estate tax clearance,Updated real property tax payments,Transfer of title with the Registry of Deeds.We recommend an initial consultation so we can properly review your husband’s death certificate, property documents, marriage certificate, and your child’s proof of identity. This way, we can assist you in completing all required steps without requiring you to travel to the Philippines.You may directly schedule and automatically get a Google Meet link using the link below:👉 https://calendar.app.google/MuALV3nLqedy9FCx6Our Contact Information:📧 Email: [email protected]📞 Phone/Viber/WhatsApp: 09175046510📍 Office: 5th Floor, Park Centrale Building, IT Park, Apas, Cebu City, 6000We look forward to helping you secure your child’s rightful inheritance.Best,Atty. Jofre RecososaOwner, Recososa Law Firm
How to protect property from squatters law: After completing probate to establish yourself as the legal heir, you can transfer the property title to your name and then grant them permission to reside there through a formal agreement.It is worthy to note that you can do it through special attorney.

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About Estate Planning Law in Seattle, United States:

Estate planning refers to the process of making legal arrangements for the management and distribution of your assets upon your death or incapacity. In Seattle, United States, estate planning laws govern how your property will be handled and distributed, ensuring your wishes are respected.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

While it is possible to create a basic estate plan on your own, hiring a lawyer who specializes in estate planning can be extremely beneficial. Here are some common situations where seeking legal help is recommended:

If you have a complex financial situation or significant assets
If you have a blended family or dependents with special needs
If you own a business and need succession planning
If you want to minimize estate taxes
If you want to establish trusts for your beneficiaries

Local Laws Overview:

In Seattle, there are several key aspects of local laws that are particularly relevant to estate planning:

Washington State has a community property system, which affects how assets are divided between spouses upon death or divorce.
Seattle has specific laws regarding the transfer of property through wills, trusts, and non-probate transfers.
The state imposes an estate tax on estates exceeding a certain value, but no inheritance tax.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is a will and why do I need one?

A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after your death. It also allows you to name guardians for minor children. A will is important to ensure that your wishes are followed and to simplify the probate process.

2. What is a trust and do I need one?

A trust is a legal arrangement in which a trustee holds and manages assets for beneficiaries. Trusts can help you avoid probate, reduce estate taxes, protect assets, and provide for the long-term financial well-being of your loved ones.

3. What is a power of attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document that grants another individual the authority to act on your behalf in financial and legal matters if you become incapacitated. It ensures that someone you trust can make important decisions for you when you are unable to do so.

4. How can I minimize estate taxes in Seattle?

Estate tax planning strategies may include establishing trusts, gifting assets during your lifetime, taking advantage of charitable deductions, and utilizing the federal gift and estate tax exemption. Consulting with an estate planning attorney can help you navigate these options.

5. Can I update my estate plan if my circumstances change?

Absolutely! It is highly recommended to review and update your estate plan whenever significant life events occur, such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or acquisition of new assets. An attorney can assist you in making necessary revisions.

Additional Resources:

Here are some resources, governmental bodies, and organizations that can provide further guidance on estate planning in Seattle:

Washington State Bar Association - Estate Planning Section: This section offers resources, articles, and a directory of estate planning attorneys in Washington State. Website: www.wsba.org
King County Superior Court - Probate Department: The probate department provides information and forms related to estate administration and probate proceedings. Website: www.kingcounty.gov/courts/superior-court/probate.aspx
Estate Planning Council of Seattle: This organization comprises professionals in the estate planning field, including attorneys, financial planners, and accountants. They offer educational events and networking opportunities. Website: www.epcseattle.org

Next Steps:

If you need legal assistance in estate planning, it is advisable to consult with an experienced attorney who can assess your specific needs and guide you through the process. Research reputable estate planning lawyers in Seattle, schedule consultations, and be prepared to discuss your goals and concerns in detail. Remember to bring relevant documents and be open and honest about your financial and personal circumstances. Keep in mind that a well-crafted estate plan can bring peace of mind and protect your loved ones in the future.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Seattle through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Estate Planning, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Seattle, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.