PROBATE & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process where your assets go through the court system to be distributed to your beneficiaries after you die, whether you die with or without a Will. Probate involves the court appointing your personal representative to handle the affairs of your estate, allows for your creditors to make claims and get paid, and for your remaining assets to be distributed. Probate in Washington is a relatively easy and inexpensive process and is nothing to fear should it have to happen.
Is Probate Always Necessary?
Probate is not always necessary. While Probate is often a simple process, there are numerous ways that you can avoid it through advance estate planning. Consultation with an attorney can provide you with the options that are available to you during your lifetime to minimize the chances that your estate would have to go through the Probate process.
If Probate is not necessary, how do my beneficiaries deal with all the “loose ends” of my estate?
Oftentimes when Probate is unnecessary, there are still items that beneficiaries are not sure how to deal with, such as the transfer of vehicles, bank accounts, and other miscellaneous items. It is best to consult with an attorney on how to transfer these remaining assets to the appropriate beneficiaries. The attorney can also assist with any other remaining items and obstacles that beneficiaries may face, such as dealing with banks, creditors, life insurance, and retirement accounts.
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