We assist clients in creating plans for the disposition of their estate after death and for the perpetuation of family businesses.

We assist clients in creating plans for the disposition of their estates after death and for the perpetuation of family businesses. This involves the laws of Wills, Trusts, probate, real estate, marriage, and state and federal taxation. We prepare documents that preserve as much flexibility as possible and provide opportunity for later tax planning. This is important given the frequent changes to the tax laws we often experience. When you need an estate planning lawyer, we have the knowledge and experience to address all of your needs. In addition to Wills and Revocable Living Trusts, we prepare documents such as Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs), Qualified Personal Residence Trusts (QPRTs), Qualified Domestic Trusts (QDOTs), and Charitable Remainder Trusts to carry out lifetime estate planning objectives and reduce or eliminate federal and state estate taxes. Optimal tax planning may also involve the rearrangement of ownership of property within a family unit, by gift or otherwise. It may also involve planning for multiple generations.

Having well-crafted, properly executed estate planning documents in place can ensure that your wishes will be followed and may also prevent a contest between your heirs. Such contests are not uncommon, especially if the Will or other documents are not properly signed and witnessed. We can help you decide how your Will or Trust should direct distribution of your property in light of the size of your estate and the age and well-being of your spouse, children, grandchildren, or other heirs. The distribution may involve setting up Trusts in your Will, structuring the timing of distributions to your heirs, and taking steps to mitigate estate taxes. We can also help you identify who should be in charge of your estate and who might act as guardian of your minor children, if necessary, on your death. Having an estate plan can protect your estate and prevent unnecessary expenditures at the time of death. Contact us at 253.858.5434 to have your estate plan prepared and be confident that your wishes will be honored upon your death.