Give us a call if you have questions about the income, estate, and gift tax ramifications of charitable giving or if you want to make charitable contributions a part of your estate plan.

A charitable contribution is a gratuitous transfer of property to charitable, religious, scientific, educational, or other specific organizations. If the recipient of the gift falls within categories designated by the Internal Revenue Code, a charitable deduction may be taken for income, gift, or estate tax purposes.

Charitable contributions have tax value, therefore, because they result in a current income tax deduction, may reduce estate taxes, and can be made free of the gift tax. From the charity's point of view, charitable contributions are also tax favored; the charity itself pays no tax upon the receipt of either a lifetime gift or a bequest and, generally, no income tax is paid by the qualified charity on income early by the charity on donated property.

If you have questions about the tax ramifications of charitable contributions, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to see how we can help!

Dynasty estate planning is an intricate process that ensures wealth and assets are preserved and managed across multiple generations and branches of a family.

Dynasty estate planning is an intricate process that ensures wealth and assets are preserved and managed across multiple generations and branches of a family. By employing strategies like creating Trusts, establishing family offices, and leveraging tax-efficient investments, families can safeguard their legacy while maintaining financial harmony among various branches. This type of planning not only addresses the distribution of assets but also instills governance structures and shared values that promote unity and responsible stewardship. Effective dynasty planning minimizes potential conflicts, provides for each generation's needs, and reinforces the family's collective vision for the future, ensuring their wealth endures and benefits all descendants.

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.

For small business owners, having a relationship with a lawyer to serve as the business's general counsel is critical for safeguarding the company's interests.

For small business owners, having a relationship with a lawyer to serve as the business's general counsel is critical for safeguarding the company's interests. We can provide proactive legal advice, helping to prevent issues before they arise, from compliance with regulations to drafting and reviewing contracts. We ensure your business is protected against potential lawsuits, intellectual property theft, and employment disputes. Furthermore, having a dedicated legal advisor means swift and knowledgeable responses to any urgent legal matters, allowing business owners to focus on growth and operations without being bogged down by legal uncertainties. This partnership not only mitigates risks but also provides a strategic advantage in making informed, legally sound business decisions.

If you are a small business owner and are seeking legal advice and representation, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We proudly represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.

The topics of Wills, Trusts, estates, and probate are often shrouded in misconceptions. We're here to dispel those myths for you.

Drafting a Will and managing estates can be daunting tasks, often shrouded in myths and misconceptions. One prevalent myth is that Wills are only for the wealthy. In reality, Wills are essential for anyone who wants to ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes. Without a Will, state laws dictate how assets are divided, which may not align with your intentions. Additionally, some believe that a Will is a one-time document. However, life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth or adoption of children necessitate updates to reflect new circumstances accurately.

Another common myth is that estate planning is only for the elderly. Regardless of age, anyone with assets should consider estate planning to protect their loved ones and assets. Furthermore, some believe that estate planning is only about distributing assets after death. However, it also includes important documents like appointing guardians for minor children and establishing health care directives. Understanding these myths helps individuals navigate the complexities of Wills and estates, ensuring their wishes are honored and their loved ones are protected.

If you have questions about Wills and estates, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.

Leaving a Will is one of the most significant acts of kindness and responsibility we can undertake for our loved ones.

Leaving a Will is one of the most significant acts of kindness and responsibility we can undertake for our loved ones. While contemplating mortality can be uncomfortable, a Will ensures that our wishes are clear and legally binding, sparing our family members from the burden of making difficult decisions during an already emotional time. Without a Will, the distribution of assets and guardianship arrangements can become contentious and drawn-out, potentially causing rifts within families. By taking the time to draft a Will, we provide invaluable peace of mind and guidance to those we leave behind, allowing them to focus on grieving and healing rather than navigating legal complexities.

If you have questions about Wills, Trusts, or any other aspect of estate planning, 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.

Appointing in-laws to fiduciary positions in your estate plan can have both benefits and drawbacks.

Appointing in-laws to fiduciary positions in your estate plan can have both benefits and drawbacks. On the one hand, selecting a trusted family member, such as an in-law, can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort knowing that someone close to the family is managing your affairs. Additionally, in-laws may have a vested interest in ensuring the well-being of their extended family members. However, there are potential risks, such as conflicts of interest or strained relationships that could arise if disagreements occur among family members regarding the distribution of assets or decision-making authority. Careful consideration of the dynamics and communication within the family, as well as clear documentation of expectations, can help mitigate these challenges and ensure the smooth execution of your estate plan.

If you have questions about creating an estate plan, 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.

Social media is a rich hunting ground where insurance companies and defense lawyers search for evidence to undermine a personal injury victim’s claim for damages.

We routinely warn our clients to exercise extreme caution on social media when involved in a personal injury claim. Social media is a rich hunting ground where insurers and defendants’ lawyers search for evidence to undermine an injury victim’s claim for damages. Scouring Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other popular social media sites has become a standard procedure during the discovery phase. In your personal injury case, the opposing party will be looking for pictures of you enjoying yourself, appearing more mobile than your alleged injuries should allow, and realistically any information that could paint you in a negative light regarding your legal claims.

NOTHING IS TRULY PRIVATE. Photos, written comments, or even a check-in at a business, like a gym, can serve as evidence against you. Much of the content about your activities and whereabouts captured on social media can be admissible in court. Your privacy settings do not ensure that your information is protected. Friends who tag you might reveal a picture of you that might be interpreted against you. You have no control over who tags you.

Not all of your connections on social media are necessarily trustworthy. Your friends and acquaintances might even be misled into sharing information about you by private investigators digging for information. A private investigator might even send you a friend request to gain access to your feed. If your privacy settings are not particularly restrictive, an investigator could locate some of your account’s content. Your name and email address or place of employment might allow an investigator to pinpoint your account and start monitoring it.

Due to the insecurity of social media platforms, we advise our clients to refrain from discussing their case online or sharing anything about the collision or current activities.

HOW CAN SOCIAL MEDIA DAMAGE A PERSONAL INJURY CASE The number one priority for the opposing party is finding evidence to dispute your claims about physical pain, suffering, disability, or emotional distress. Any content that could conceivably disprove the merit of your request for compensation will be exploited. Pictures of you engaged in activities that your injuries should preclude represent the top source of evidence that could devalue your claim. Images of you at the beach or doing yard work may form an argument that you are not suffering or disabled. An insurer or lawyer might even argue that seemingly innocent pictures of you smiling alongside friends negates your complaint of emotional distress.

Any controversial or erroneous statements that you published online could be twisted into an attack on your credibility. Your opponent might suggest that you change your mind often, have conflicting opinions, and are not a very reliable source of information. Criticism of the person responsible for your injury or criticism of the insurance company on social media also provide fodder for the defendant. The opposing party might paint a picture of you as someone with a vendetta. Arguments like these have the potential to influence jurors’ opinions against you. As a result, you can expect your lawyer to warn you to never mention anything about your legal case online.

WHAT TO AVOID DOING. Although you may enjoy your social media interactions and appreciate expressions of sympathy regarding your collision and injuries, social media silence will be your best strategy during litigation.

To protect your injury case, do NOT:

* Engage with people online who you do not know or trust

* Share any information about the insurance claim or lawsuit

* Respond to comments about the incident

* Share any pictures of you in potentially compromising settings or situations

* Share any content related to celebrating, partying, or drinking

Although this advice might seem extreme, the party responsible for your damages wants to avoid paying a high settlement. A picture of you posing with a friend with a smile on your face does not communicate the pain that you endured to struggle out of a chair to stand for a moment. People coping with chronic pain sometimes find the strength to enjoy themselves, but images cannot tell that side of the story.

PROTECT YOUR INJURY CLAIM WITH LEGAL GUIDANCE. Few people who suffer a personal injury possess expertise in the tactics used to deflect claims for damages. When you launch a personal injury case, you are likely entering new and unfamiliar territory. The process is very adversarial, and you may not anticipate the level of creativity that will discredit your suffering and losses. We know what to expect. We can guide you through each step on the road to recovering financial damages. Contact us at 253.858.5434 today.

By creating an Educational Trust, whether for children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews, you're laying a solid foundation for their educational pursuits.

Creating an Educational Trust for the younger generations is a profound way to invest in their future. By establishing such a Trust, whether for children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews, you're laying a solid foundation for their educational pursuits. This proactive step ensures that they have the financial support necessary to pursue higher education without the burden of hefty student loans. Moreover, it fosters a sense of security and empowerment, giving them the freedom to focus on their studies and explore their passions without financial constraints. Investing in your younger loved ones' education is investing in their potential, setting them on a path towards a brighter and more fulfilling future.

If you have questions about Educational Trusts or otherwise providing for your younger family members, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We proudly represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.

Updating your estate plan is important, especially when unforeseen circumstances arise such as a spouse or child falling ill or becoming disabled.

Updating your estate plan is important, especially when unforeseen circumstances arise such as a spouse or child falling ill or becoming disabled. In these challenging times, reviewing and potentially revising your estate plan ensures that your loved ones are adequately provided for and that their needs are met in the event of your incapacity or passing. Whether it involves adjusting beneficiaries, establishing Trusts, or updating Powers of Attorney, proactive planning can offer peace of mind and financial security during difficult times. By addressing these changes promptly, you can navigate these challenges with greater confidence, knowing that your estate plan reflects your current wishes and priorities.

If you would like to talk about creating an estate plan or updating an existing one, 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.

When contemplating the acquisition of a small business, the decision between purchasing stock or assets can significantly impact the transaction's outcomes.

When contemplating the acquisition of a small business, the decision between purchasing stock or assets can significantly impact the transaction's outcomes. Opting for stock purchases involves acquiring ownership of the entire entity, inheriting its liabilities and obligations, but also maintaining its operational continuity and established relationships. Conversely, asset purchases provide more control over specific assets and liabilities, allowing buyers to cherry-pick desirable elements while avoiding unwanted burdens. Understanding the nuances of each approach is crucial for making informed decisions tailored to the unique dynamics of the target business and the buyer's strategic objectives.

If you're thinking about buying a business and need legal representation, give us a call today at 253.858.5434 to make 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 ideal Personal Representative or Trustee for your estate plan is a pivotal decision that warrants careful consideration.

Choosing the ideal Personal Representative or Trustee for your estate plan is a pivotal decision that warrants careful consideration. These individuals will be entrusted with significant responsibilities, including managing your assets, distributing inheritances, and ensuring your wishes are carried out faithfully. It's essential to choose someone who is not only trustworthy and responsible but also capable of navigating complex legal and financial matters with integrity and discretion. Taking the time to identify the right person or entity for these roles can provide peace of mind and help safeguard the legacy you've worked hard to build.

If you would like to discuss prepare an estate plan, including Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to make an appointment today. We represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.

For clients with loved ones who suffer from mental illness or are battling addiction, establishing Trusts can provide a structured and protective way to manage their inheritance.

Estate planning is often viewed as a critical task for ensuring that one's assets are distributed according to their wishes after they die. However, it's equally important to consider the well-being of family members who may require special assistance or support. For individuals suffering from mental illness or battling addiction, establishing Trusts can provide a structured and protective way to manage their inheritance.

Trusts offer flexibility in controlling how and when assets are distributed, which can be invaluable when dealing with vulnerable beneficiaries. By appointed a trusted Trustee to oversee the Trust, individuals can ensure that the funds are used for the intended purpose, such as covering medical expenses, therapy, or rehabilitation programs. Additionally, Trusts can safeguard the inheritance from creditors or other external pressures, providing peace of mind for both the benefactor and the beneficiary. In this way, incorporating Trusts into estate plans can serve as a compassionate and practical solution for supporting loved ones during their time of need.

If you have questions about using Trusts to protect the inheritances of loved ones suffering from mental illness or battling addiction, give us a call and we'll be happy to help. We represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.

Maintaining open communication with your lawyer regarding your medical treatment is fundamental when pursuing a personal injury claim.

Maintaining open communication with your lawyer regarding your medical treatment is fundamental when pursuing a personal injury claim. Your lawyer relies on up-to-date information about your health status to effectively advocate on your behalf. From doctors' appointments to changes in medication, every detail matters in building a strong case. By keeping your lawyer informed, you ensure that they can accurately assess the impact of your injuries and navigate the legal process with clarity and precision, ultimately maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

If you or a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker have been injured in an auto collision and need legal representation, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to make an appointment for a free initial consultation today.

Whether through birth or adoption, when a new child or grandchild enters your life, it's wise to review and update your estate plan accordingly.

Welcoming a new addition to the family is a joyous occasion, filled with love and excitement. However, amidst the celebration, it's essential to remember the practicalities, especially when it comes to estate planning. Whether through birth or adoption, when a new child or grandchild enters your life, it's wise to review and update your estate plan accordingly. This ensures that your loved ones are provided for and that your wishes are accurately reflected in your legal documents, securing their future and providing peace of mind for you and your family.

If you have questions about preparing an estate plan or reviewing and updating your existing plan, 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.