PRACTICE AREAS
Estate Planning
Estate planning is a confidential yet collaborative process that should look different for each and every client. Our goal is to truly understand your situation so we can tailor an estate plan that reflects your specific needs, values, and goals.
Probate & Estate Administration
News of the death of a family member or cherished friend is some of the saddest news you can receive. While you grapple with your loss, our compassionate team has the expertise to help you navigate the legal and financial issues that inevitably arise.
Business Formation & Planning
Unexpected events—such as death, disability, divorce, or retirement—can dramatically impact a business and everyone connected to it. Whether you're planning for long-term continuity or facing an imminent transition, we help safeguard your business, your family, and your partners.
ESTATE PLANNING
Estate planning is a confidential yet collaborative process that should look different for each and every client. Our goal is to truly understand your situation so we can tailor an estate plan that reflects your specific needs, values, and goals. Generally speaking, the estate planning process will likely include the following components:
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What to expect:
Discuss your objectives—what you want to accomplish, whom you wish to care for, and any legacy planning involved.
Review your confidential intake questionnaire, covering personal details, family structure, assets, real estate, and financial accounts.
Explain the legal framework, including applicable Washington or Idaho law, state and federal tax laws, probate, and trust administration (if necessary).
Break down cost factors, such as the type and complexity of documents (wills, trusts, powers of attorney, etc.), the amount of time and effort involved, the experience of those completing your work, and whether your plan includes any specialized elements.
This thorough process empowers you to make an informed decision as to which combination of services makes the most sense for your situation.
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If you decide to proceed:
Your attorney, with the assistance of our experienced team, will draft your estate planning documents consistent with your objectives and instructions.
We remain in close communication to answer any questions you may have and, if necessary, to gather more information.
Once your attorney has drafted and reviewed your estate planning documents, we provide you with a set of drafts to review, along with an overview of your plan and its respective components.
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After collaborating with you about your draft documents and making any necessary changes, we’ll work with you to finalize the plan.
When you’re completely ready:
We’ll schedule a final signing meeting at a mutually agreeable time.
We’ll conduct the signing in the manner required by law including a notary and witnesses as required.
Finally, soon after your signing meeting, we’ll put together your estate planning portfolio, containing your executed originals (unless you would like to store them with us for no additional cost) and any copies you may desire.
Why Our Approach Matters
Transparent. Confidential. Communicative.
Throughout the process, you’ll know how we operate, how we structure our fees, and how each step benefits your plan. We ensure all information you provide to or communicate with us remains private.
• TAILORED LEGAL STRATEGIES: Whether you need a simple will, a complex tax-driven estate plan, plans for special needs loved ones, long term care plans, or assetprotection measures for your business or property, we design a solution that fits you.
• COLLABORATIVE PROCESS: Your feedback guides every draft; you’re in control.
• PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE: We demystify legal jargon and walk you through every decision.
By structuring the estate planning journey this way — with clear phases, open communication, and client-driven choices — we help you feel informed, confident, and fully supported at every step.
PROBATE & ESTATE PLANNING
News of the death of a family member or cherished friend is some of the saddest news you can receive. While you grapple with your loss, our compassionate team has the expertise to help you navigate the legal and financial issues that inevitably arise in the aftermath of your loved one’s passing.
What is Probate?
Probate is the process by which a deceased individual’s affairs (i.e., transfers of property, satisfaction of debts, taxes) are settled. In Washington State and Idaho State, the probate process is nothing to fear. With competent representation, the probate process can be skillfully navigated and settled in a timely manner with limited to no court involvement, depending on the circumstances.
Our Probate Services
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Consultation concerning whether initiation of a probate is necessary considering the decedent’s circumstances (often it is, yet, sometimes alternatives may be available).
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If appropriate, preparing the necessary information and documentation required to initiate the probate process and appoint a personal representative or administrator, whichever the case may be, of the decedent’s estate.
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Providing guidance during the administration of the estate, including but not limited to:
Instruction regarding the obligations and responsibilities imposed on a Personal Representative or Administrator under Washington law.
Facilitation with estate accounting, inventory valuations, property transfers, resolution of debts, creditors’ claims, taxes owed, and more.
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Finally, gathering the necessary information and documentation required to close an estate.
BUSINESS FORMATION & PLANNING
Unexpected events—such as death, disability, divorce, or retirement—can dramatically impact a business and everyone connected to it.
We help business owners plan ahead by:
Making initial plans, including Letters of Intent, Confidentiality Agreements, and planning for due diligence review of proprietary business information.
Drafting Buy-Sell Agreements and succession provisions
Advising on valuation methods and funding mechanisms (e.g., life insurance)
Structuring transitions to children, co-owners, or third-party buyers
Minimizing tax consequences and preventing disputes
Representing buyers or sellers in business sales
Whether you're planning for long-term continuity or facing an imminent transition, we help safeguard your business, your family, and your partners.
Why Choose Us?
With a deep understanding of Washington business law and years of experience advising owners across industries, we provide legal strategies that align with your business’s structure, values, and vision.
Our attorneys have been business owners, advisors, and board members for many non-profit and for profit businesses. We bring clarity to complexity—so you can focus on running your business.