Setting up a Special Needs Trust is a crucial aspect of comprehensive estate planning for families with individuals requiring long-term care or support due to disabilities.

Setting up a Special Needs Trust (SNT) is a crucial aspect of comprehensive estate planning for families with individuals requiring long-term care or support due to disabilities. Unlike a standard Trust, an SNT is specifically designed to safeguard the financial future of a loved one with special needs. By establishing this Trust, one can ensure that the individual receives necessary care without jeopardizing eligibility for government assistance programs. It allows for the management of assets on behalf of the beneficiary, providing a layer of protection and continuity when caregivers may no longer be around. Working closely with your lawyer and financial advisor, creating an SNT becomes a compassionate and strategic way to enhance the quality of life for a family member with special needs while preserving their eligibility for vital services and support.

If you have questions about Special Needs Trusts or any other aspect of estate planning, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.

In the realm of financial foresight, sophisticated estate planning techniques serve as strategic tools for individuals seeking to navigate the complex landscape of estate and gift taxes.

In the realm of financial foresight, sophisticated estate planning techniques serve as strategic tools for individuals seeking to navigate the complex landscape of estate and gift taxes. These methods go beyond conventional approaches, employing a nuanced blend of legal, financial, and tax considerations to optimize wealth transfer. From Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs) and Family Limited Partnerships (FLiPs) to Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs), these techniques leverage legal structures to minimize tax burdens while preserving and distributing assets efficiently. By intricately weaving together instruments like Dynasty Trusts, individuals can safeguard their legacies, ensuring a smooth transition of wealth to successive generations. As tax laws evolve, the pursuit of sophisticated estate planning becomes increasingly imperative, allowing individuals to orchestrate their financial affairs with a level of precision that transcends the ordinary.

If you have estate planning questions or if we can otherwise be of service to you, your family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers, 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.

If you've been injured in an auto collision that was not your fault, don't try to take on the insurance company alone. We can help!

If you've been injured in an auto collision that was not your fault, don't try to take on the insurance company alone. Insurance companies have armies of adjustors and lawyers whose job it is to make sure the insurance company pays you as little as it can get away with. You're entitled to special damages (medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other out-of-pocket expenses) AND general damages (pain & suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, inconvenience, etc.). Hire an experienced lawyer to level the playing field and get you the justice and the compensation you deserve. Give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment for a free initial consultation today.

The Importance of Establishing a Power of Attorney and Health Care Power of Attorney When Your Young Adult Child Heads Off to College

When your kid heads off to college, you're likely focused on shopping for dorm supplies and helping them choose classes. However, there's another crucial consideration that often goes overlooked: the importance of establishing a power of attorney and a health care power of attorney for your young adult. While it may seem premature, these legal documents can be a lifesaver in emergencies. A power of attorney allows your child to designate someone to handle financial matters on their behalf, ensuring bills are paid and financial affairs are managed even when they're away. Additionally, a health care power of attorney enables them to appoint a trusted individual to make medical decisions if they become unable to do so themselves. By putting these safeguards in place, you provide peace of mind for both you and your college-bound child, ensuring that they have the necessary support in case of unexpected events while away from home.

If you have questions about powers of attorney, health care powers of attorney, or estate planning in general, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.

Hiring an experienced lawyer to assist with probate avoidance techniques in your estate plan is a prudent decision that can save your loved ones time, money, and stress in the long run.

Hiring an experienced lawyer to assist with probate avoidance techniques in your estate plan is a prudent decision that can save your loved ones time, money, and stress in the long run. Probate can be a lengthy and costly process, often burdened with legal complexities. A skilled lawyer can guide you through various strategies like establishing Revocable Living Trusts, joint ownership, or beneficiary designations to ensure a seamless transfer of your assets to your heirs. By seeking legal counsel, you can take proactive steps to protect your assets and streamline the distribution of your estate, ultimately providing peace of mind for you and your beneficiaries.

If you 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.

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.

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.

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.

A Revocable Living Trust is often a cornerstone of a well-structured estate plan. However, it's crucial to remember that life is constantly changing, and so should your Trust.

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.

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.

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!

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.

We practice in three key areas: estate planning, small business support, and personal injury. We are your beacon of legal expertise in Gig Harbor, providing peace of mind and results you can trust.

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 Power of Attorney is a crucial element of your estate plan. By designating a trusted individual as your agent, you empower them to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

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.

The choice between a 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.

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.