Our office will be closed Thursday and Friday this week to celebrate Thanksgiving!
Using Trusts to shelter assets from your children's ex spouses can be a prudent and strategic financial move. In an age where divorces are common, safeguarding family wealth is paramount. Trusts, such as Dynasty Trusts or Spendthrift Trusts, allows parents to protect assets for their children's benefit without exposing them to potential claims from former partners. By placing assets into a Trust, parents can ensure that their hard-earned wealth remains within the family, providing financial security and peace of mind. However, it is crucial to consult with legal and financial advisors to tailor the Trust structure to your specific circumstances, ensuring that your intentions are legally sound and your assets remain secure from potential complications arising from divorce or contentious relationships.
If you have questions about Trusts or any other estate planning tools or techniques, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.
Choosing the right legal structure for your small business is a pivotal decision, and often, the dilemma lies between Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and S Corporations. LLCs offer owners limited liability protection, meaning personal assets are shielded from business debts, while also allowing for flexible management and tax options. S Corporations, on the other hand, provide pass-through taxation, enabling profits and losses to be reported on individual tax returns, potentially reducing overall tax liability. However, S Corporations come with stricter ownership rules and have a cap on the number and type of shareholders. The choice between the two ultimately depend on your business's specific needs, goals, and ownership structure, so consult with a legal or financial professional to make the right choice for your unique circumstances.
If you're a small business owner and have questions about LLCs and S Corporation, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.
Estate planning is a vital task, and a Revocable Living Trust is often a cornerstone of a well-structured plan. However, it's crucial to remember that life is constantly changing, and so should your Trust. Periodically reviewing and updating your Revocable Living Trust is a wise move to ensure it aligns with your current circumstances and wishes. Major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of children, or acquiring significant assets can all necessitate revisions. Furthermore, tax laws and regulations evolve over time, so keeping your Trust up to date can help optimize your estate's distribution while minimizing tax liabilities. By making this a regular practice, you can have peace of mind that your Trust remains a robust and effective tool for preserving your legacy.
If you have questions about Revocable Living Trusts or any other aspects of estate planning, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.
Estate planning takes on a unique dimension when it comes to artists, authors, musicians, and songwriters. Beyond the typical assets, their intellectual property and creative works hold immense value. For these creative souls, a well-crafted estate plan should include provisions for the management and protection of copyrights, royalties, and any unfinished projects. Moreover, considering the potential for posthumous popularity, clear instructions on how their creative legacy should be handled and who should benefit from it are crucial. Whether it's the sale of artwork, continued royalties from songs, or the preservation of literary archives, tailoring an estate plan to preserve their artistic contributions and provide for loved ones is paramount. Collaborating with legal and financial experts who understand the intricacies of intellectual property and artistic legacies can make all the difference in securing a lasting creative heritage.
If you are an artist, author, musician, or songwriter and have estate planning questions, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.
Psychological damages can have a profound impact on a person's well-being, often extending far beyond the initial auto collision or other incident. When it comes to personal injury cases, psychologists' records can be invaluable. These records serve as a vital source of evidence, shedding light on the emotional and mental toll a traumatic event has taken on the victim. They provide a window into the individual's suffering, offering crucial insights into the extent of their psychological injuries, the treatment required, and the potential long-term consequences. Utilizing psychologists' records can strengthen a personal injury case, helping to ensure that those who have endured psychological harm receive the support and compensation they deserve. In the pursuit of justice, these records play a pivotal role in recognizing the profound impact of psychological damages.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto collision or other traumatic incident and are treating with a psychologist or counsel, or feel like maybe you should be, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment for a free initial consultation today.
November is a pretty big deal around here. This November marks 27 years of practicing law and 11 years since moving our law firm from downtown Seattle here to Gig Harbor. So every November we offer you this: Any new client who hires us this month to represent them on their estate plan (Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, etc.) gets 50% knocked off their attorney's fees. Go tell your friends. And give us a call at 253.858.5434 to make an appointment.
Our law firm practices in three key areas: estate planning, small business support, and personal injury cases. With a commitment to excellence, we are dedicated to providing you with top-notch legal counsel to safeguard your future, protect your business, and fight for your rights.
In the realm of estate planning, we will work closely with you to create tailored solutions that ensure your assets are secured and your family's future is protected. Whether it's crafting Wills, establishing Trusts, or handling probate matters, we are your guiding hand through the complexities of estate law. For small business owners, we offer comprehensive legal services, from business formation to contract negotiation, helping you navigate the intricacies of entrepreneurship with confidence. When it comes to personal injury cases, rest assured that we'll tirelessly advocate for your rights, ensuring you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. The Law Offices of P. Stephen Aita, PLLC is your beacon of legal expertise in Gig Harbor, Washington, providing peace of mind and results you can trust. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more secure and prosperous future.
A Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) is a crucial element of a comprehensive estate plan. By designating a trusted individual as your attorney-in-fact (your agent), you empower them to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated, ensuring your affairs are managed smoothly. This legal document not only grants peace of mind but also avoids the need for costly and time-consuming court-appointed guardianship proceedings. When integrated into your estate plan, a DPOA provides a vital layer of protection for both your assets and your wishes, making it an essential tool in securing your financial future and preserving your autonomy during unforeseen circumstances.
If you have questions about Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care Powers of Attorney, or any other estate planning tools and techniques, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.
When it comes to estate planning, the choice between a Revocable Living Trust and a Will is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact the distribution of assets and the ease of administration after one's passing. While a Will is a commonly used document for outlining your wishes, a Revocable Living Trust offers distinct advantages. One key benefit is privacy; a Trust allows for a confidential transfer of assets, avoiding the public probate process associated with a Will. Additionally, a Trust can provide flexibility during your lifetime, allowing you to manage and update your assets as circumstances change. While both options have their merits, a Revocable Living Trust offers a powerful and versatile tool for those looking to streamline the estate transfer process, maintain privacy, and adapt to evolving needs over time.
If you have questions about Revocable Living Trusts, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.
Hiring a lawyer after an auto collision that has led to a serious personal injury or wrongful death claim is not just a prudent choice, it's often a necessity. In the wake of such tragic events, the legal landscape can be complex and daunting, with insurance companies, medical bills, and potential litigation to contend with. An experienced lawyer can be your strongest advocate, helping you navigate the intricacies of the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you and your loved ones deserve. Our experience can provide not only peace of mind but also the best chance of securing justice and financial recovery in the face of adversity.
If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in an auto collision, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to make an appointment for a free initial consultation today.
Estate planning is a crucial aspect of securing your family's future, and for single parents, it takes on even greater significance. Without a partner to rely on, it's essential to carefully consider who will care for your children and manage your assets if something were to happen to you. Start by hiring an experienced lawyer to draft a comprehensive Will that designates a guardian for your children and outlines how your assets should be distributed. Consider establishing a Trust to provide for your children's financial needs, and ensure you have adequate life insurance coverage. Regularly review and update your estate plan as your circumstances change. While it may be challenging for single parents to navigate, thoughtful estate planning can offer peace of mind and financial security for your loved ones in times of uncertainty.
If you have estate planning questions or want to talk about preparing a Will, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.
In Washington, Transfer on Death Deeds (TODDs) offer a streamlined and efficient way to include real estate in your estate plan. These deeds allow you to designate a beneficiary who will automatically inherit the property upon your passing, bypassing the probate process. Not only does this simplify the transfer of real estate assets, but it also spares your loved ones the time and expense associated with probate court proceedings. TODDs are a valuable tool for ensuring a smooth transition of your property to your chosen heirs, making them an essential consideration for Washington residents seeking to protect their legacy and simplify the state settlement process.
If you have questions about Transfer on Death Deeds, or any other estate planning questions in Washington or Idaho, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.
Here in the great State of Washington, known for its lush landscapes and pet-friendly communities, caring for our furry companions extends beyond our lifetimes. Estate planning here isn't just about assets and beneficiaries; it also includes provisions for our beloved pets. Washington allows pet owners to create legally binding documents to safeguard their animals' futures. By designated a trusted caregiver, setting up a Pet Trust, and detailing specific care instructions, Washington residents can ensure that their four-legged family members receive the love and attention they deserve even when they're no longer around. This thoughtful approach to estate planning not only provides peace of mind but also upholds the strong bond between humans and their cherished pets in the Evergreen State.
If you have questions about providing for your pets in your estate plan, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.
If you have been injured in an auto collision that wasn't your fault and need legal representation in dealing with the at-fault driver's insurance company, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment for a free initial consultation today. We take personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis, which means we only get paid if we recover money on your behalf.