Overview of Estate Planning & Probate Services

At Morgan Hill P.C. in Olympia, WA, we specialize in estate planning and probate to protect your legacy and navigate legal challenges that arise during life transitions or after a loved one’s passing. Estate planning is the process of preparing for the management and distribution of your assets through tools such as wills and trusts, ensuring that your wishes are honored.

Probate, on the other hand, is the court-supervised process of administering a deceased person’s estate, validating their will, paying debts, and distributing remaining assets. Serving Thurston County since our founding, our attorneys bring expertise to these complex areas, ensuring compliance with Washington state laws. For a deeper understanding of Washington estate laws, visit here.

Estate Planning Services

Our estate planning lawyers in Olympia, WA, are dedicated to helping you secure your financial future and protect your family. A well-crafted will is the cornerstone of estate planning, allowing you to specify how your assets should be distributed after your death, governed by RCW 11.12. Trusts offer an additional layer of control and privacy, enabling you to manage assets during your lifetime and beyond, avoiding the public probate process.

Powers of attorney are crucial for designating someone to make financial or healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated, as outlined in RCW 11.94. We also assist with advanced healthcare directives and living wills to ensure your medical wishes are clear. For more detailed information, explore our dedicated page on wills and estate planning, where you can find step-by-step guidance and resources tailored to Olympia residents.

Probate Process

Our probate attorneys in Olympia, WA, provide compassionate guidance through the estate administration process following a loved one’s death. Probate is a legal procedure outlined under RCW 11.04, where the court validates the deceased’s will, settles outstanding debts, and distributes the remaining assets to heirs.

The process begins with filing a petition in the Thurston County Superior Court, followed by the appointment of a personal representative to manage the estate. This can include inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and resolving disputes if any arise. Timelines typically range from 6 to 12 months, depending on the estate’s complexity and local court schedules. For a comprehensive breakdown, visit our probate process page, which offers detailed steps and local insights specific to Olympia.

Recommendations

Washington estate and probate laws are subject to change, with notable updates to probate procedures in 2023 affecting timelines and creditor notifications. We recommend reviewing your estate plan annually to ensure it remains up-to-date, reflecting any new laws or life changes, such as marriage or the birth of a child.

Local Insights

Serving Thurston County courts, Morgan Hill P.C. is deeply familiar with the local legal landscape in Olympia, WA. Our attorneys regularly appear before the Thurston County Superior Court, giving us an edge in navigating probate filings and estate planning requirements specific to the area.

We understand the unique challenges faced by Olympia residents, including managing rural properties and coordinating with local financial institutions. This local expertise ensures that your estate plan complies with regional regulations and that probate proceedings move smoothly through the Olympia court system.

Why Choose Morgan Hill P.C.?

With a 4.6 Google rating based on over 230 reviews, Morgan Hill P.C. stands out as a trusted name in estate planning and probate in Olympia, WA. Our team brings decades of combined experience, handling everything from simple wills to complex trust administrations and contested probates. We pride ourselves on our client-centered approach, offering clear communication and tailored strategies to meet your unique needs.

Our proximity to Thurston County courts allows us to efficiently manage cases, ensuring timely and effective resolutions. Whether you’re planning for the future or addressing an immediate probate need, our attorneys are here to provide the support you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is estate planning?

A: Estate planning is the process of creating wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to manage your assets and healthcare decisions effectively. It ensures your wishes are carried out as intended. For more information, please visit our wills page.

Q: How long does probate take in Washington?

A: Probate in Washington typically takes between 6 and 12 months, depending on the estate’s complexity and the court’s schedule. For more information, please visit our probate process page.

Q: Do I need a lawyer for probate in Olympia?

A: While a lawyer is not legally required for probate, having one can help ensure accuracy and minimize complications. Please feel free to contact us at (360) 357-5700 for assistance.

Q: What costs are involved in estate planning?

A: The costs for estate planning vary by service, with will drafting ranging from $500 to $1,500 and trusts starting at $2,000 or more. We invite you to consult our team for a personalized estimate.

Q: Can I avoid probate in WA?

A: Yes, you can! Establishing a trust is an effective way to avoid the probate process. Our attorneys are available to guide you through the available options.

Q: What happens if I die without a will?

A: This is an important consideration. If you pass away without a will, Washington’s intestacy laws will determine the distribution of your assets. You can review the details at RCW 11.04.

Q: How do I update my estate plan?

A: You can update your estate plan by contacting us to revise your documents annually or after significant life events such as marriage or the birth of a child.

Q: Does Morgan Hill P.C. serve Thurston County?

A: Yes, we do! Morgan Hill P.C. proudly serves Olympia and the entire county of Thurston with our professional services.

Q: What is a power of attorney?

A: A power of attorney is a legal document that designates someone to make financial or healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. Our team can provide further information.

Q: Can probate be contested in Olympia?

A: Yes, it can. Probate disputes may arise, and our experienced attorneys are well-equipped to handle any contests that occur.