For unmarried couples who live together, a well-drafted separate property (or cohabitation) agreement is one of the most practical tools for avoiding costly disputes and uncertainty down the road.

For unmarried couples who live together, a well-drafted separate property (or cohabitation) agreement is one of the most practical tools for avoiding costly disputes and uncertainty down the road. Unlike married couples, partners who cohabitate don’t automatically benefit from clear statutory frameworks governing property division, which means that questions about who owns what — or who is entitled to what after a breakup or death — can quickly become complicated and contentious. A separate property agreement allows couples to define, in advance, how assets and debts are characterized, how shared expenses are handled, and what happens if the relationship ends or one of the partners dies, providing clarity and reducing the risk of litigation. It also helps protect premarital assets, business interests, and inheritances, while setting expectations that can strengthen the relationship itself. In short, taking the time to formalize these arrangements isn’t unromantic — it’s a smart, proactive step that can preserve both financial stability and peace of mind.

If you have questions about separate property agreements or cohabitation agreements, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.

Estate planning is not something you “get around to” after everything else is handled; it’s the thing that quietly determines whether everything else falls apart.

Estate planning, if you’ll allow me to be direct, is not something you “get around to” after everything else is handled; it’s the thing that quietly determines whether everything else falls apart. We’re not here to sugarcoat it: avoiding the conversation doesn’t make the consequences disappear, it just hands the burden to the people you care about most. A well-prepared estate plan is, at its core, an act of responsibility — naming decision-makers, organizing your assets, and making your wishes unmistakably clear so your family isn’t left guessing or fighting. It may feel uncomfortable, even a little clinical, but the payoff is certainty, and in our experience, certainty is one of the few real gifts you can leave behind.

If you want to talk about Wills, Trusts. Powers of Attorney, or any other aspect of estate planning, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to see how we can be of service to you and your family.

In Washington, understanding the difference between third-party personal injury claims and uninsured or underinsured motorist (UIM) claims is critical after an auto collision.

In Washington, understanding the difference between third-party personal injury claims and uninsured or underinsured motorist (UIM) claims is critical after an auto collision. A third-party claim is brought directly against the at-fault driver (and their insurance company) for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and recovery is typically limited by that driver’s policy limits. By contrast, a UIM claim is made against your own insurance policy when the at-fault driver either has no insurance or insufficient coverage to fully compensate you for your losses. While third-party claims often involve more straightforward liability disputes, UIM claims can become more complex, as your own insurer may step into an adversarial role in evaluating the value of your case. Coordinating both types of claims effectively — often at the same time — can be essential to maximizing recovery, particularly in serious injury cases where damages exceed available liability coverage.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto collision and have questions about your claim, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to see how we can help!

Preparing a HIPAA-compliant estate plan is important for licensed health care professionals, as it ensures the lawful handling of protected health information in the event of incapacity or death.

Preparing a HIPAA-compliant estate plan is especially important for licensed health care professionals who own their own practices, as it ensures both the continuity of patient care and the lawful handling of protected health information (PHI) in the event of incapacity or death. A well-designed plan should coordinate traditional estate planning documents — such as Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney — with HIPAA authorizations that permit designated fiduciaries to access and manage patient records as necessary to wind down or transition the practice. Practitioners should also establish clear instructions for the custody, storage, and eventual transfer or destruction of medical records in compliance with federal and state privacy laws, while addressing business succession through buy-sell agreements or practice transition plans. By proactively integrating HIPAA considerations into their estate plan, health care providers can protect patient confidentiality, minimize legal risk, and preserve the value of their professional legacy.

If you or your spouse are a doctor, dentist, psychologist, chiropractor, or other health care professional and and want to make sure your estate complies with HIPAA requirements, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to make an appointment today.

Creating a Revocable Living Trust is only the first step — properly funding the Trust is what makes it effective.

Creating a Revocable Living Trust is only the first step — properly funding the Trust is what makes it effective. Funding means transferring ownership of your assets, such as real estate, bank accounts, and investment accounts, into the name of the Trust so they are controlled according to the Trust’s terms. If assets are left outside the Trust, they may still have to go through probate, undermining one of the primary benefits of having a Trust in the first place. Some assets, like retirement accounts, are typically not retitled but instead coordinated through beneficiary designations to align with the overall estate plan. While the process can involve paperwork and coordination with financial institutions, taking the time to properly fund your Trust ensures a smoother transition for your loved ones and helps carry out your wishes efficiently.

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

Musicians need lawyers too! When should you consider consulting an attorney?

Musicians need lawyers too! When should you consider consulting an attorney?

* You need a contract with a manager, booking agent, or producer;

* You need to formalize your internal band agreement (e.g., expenses, song splits, voting rights);

* You receive an offer for use of your song(s) in a film, commercial, videogame, app, etc. and need a licensing agreement;

* You need to register your copyrights (songs, recordings) or trademarks (band name, logo);

* You want to form your own publishing company;

* You need help affiliating with ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, or SoundExchange;

* You find out someone is using the same band name;

* You discover that someone is using your song without permission;

* You want to record a cover of someone else's song;

* You need an exit agreement with a band member who is fired or quits;

* You have a record label interested in signing you or your band;

* You want to use someone else's music on your website or in a video;

* You co-wrote a song and want to establish your rights to freely exploit the song;

* You teach music lessons and need a services contract with your students;

* You perform at private functions and need a performance contract;

* You are running a festival and need contracts with the performers;

* You want to perform or shoot a video on someone's property; or

* You commissioned artwork for your album cover or merch and need to make sure you have all the rights you need to use the artwork.

Give us a call at 253.858.5434 to see if we can help.

Including Trusts for grandchildren in your Will can be a powerful way to create a lasting legacy while maintaining control over how and when assets are used.

Including Trusts for grandchildren in your Will can be a powerful way to create a lasting legacy while maintaining control over how and when assets are used. Rather than leaving an outright inheritance, a properly drafted testamentary Trust allows you to set conditions — such as age milestones, educational purposes, or health and support needs — so funds are distributed thoughtfully over time. This can help protect young beneficiaries from financial mismanagement, creditor issues, or unforeseen life circumstances, while also ensuring that your values guide the use of the assets. In Washington, these Trusts can be tailored with significant flexibility, making them a valuable tool for grandparents who want to provide meaningful, long-term support without sacrificing oversight.

If you would like to talk about providing for grandchildren in your estate plan, 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.

In Washington probate proceedings, the creditors’ claims process provides a structured and time-sensitive mechanism for resolving a decedent’s outstanding debts.

In Washington probate proceedings, the creditors’ claims process — governed primarily by Title 11 of the Revised Code of Washington — provides a structured and time-sensitive mechanism for resolving a decedent’s outstanding debts. After appointment, the Personal Representative may publish a Notice to Creditors and provide actual notice to known or reasonably ascertainable creditors, which significantly shortens the time period for filing claims. Creditors who receive proper notice generally must present their claims within the later of four months after publication or 30 days after actual notice, or risk being forever barred. Claims must be presented in a statutorily compliant manner, and the Personal Representative then has a duty to allow or reject each claim; rejected claims must be pursued by the creditor in court within a strict 30-day window. This process is a powerful probate tool because, when properly followed, it allows the estate to cut off unknown or late claims, providing finality and facilitating timely distribution to beneficiaries.

If you’ve been named Personal Representative of a loved one’s estate and have questions about how to deal with creditors’ claims, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to see how we can be of service.

Personal injury litigation typically unfolds in several distinct stages, each with its own strategic considerations.

Personal injury litigation typically unfolds in several distinct stages, each with its own strategic considerations. It begins with pre-suit investigation and claim development, where the injured party and counsel gather medical records, evaluate liability, and often attempt early settlement through demand letters. If negotiations fail, the case proceeds to the pleading stage, with the filing of a Complaint and the defendant’s Answer. Next comes discovery, a critical phase involving written interrogatories, document exchanges, and depositions to uncover facts and assess the strengths and weaknesses of each side. Parties may then file dispositive motions, such as motions for summary judgment, seeking to resolve the case or narrow issues before trial. If the case survives these motions, it moves toward trial preparation, including expert disclosures and mediation efforts, as many courts require alternative dispute resolution. Finally, if no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge or jury determines liability and damages, followed by potential post-trial motions or appeals.

If you or a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker have been injured due to someone else’s negligence and have questions about the claim process, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to make an appointment for a free initial consultation today.

A Revocable Living Trust is one of the most effective tools available for Washington residents looking to create a flexible and efficient estate plan.

A Revocable Living Trust is one of the most effective tools available for Washington residents looking to create a flexible and efficient estate plan. By placing your assets into a Trust during your lifetime, you can avoid the time, cost, and public nature of probate, allowing your beneficiaries to receive their inheritances more quickly and privately. A Trust also provides seamless management of your assets if you become incapacitated, ensuring that a trusted individual can step in without the need for court intervention. Additionally, Revocable Living Trusts can be tailored to address blended families, minor beneficiaries, or specific distribution wishes, all while remaining fully amendable during your lifetime. For many individuals and families in Washington, a Revocable Living Trust offers peace of mind, continuity, and control that a simple Will alone cannot match.

If you questions about Revocable Living Trusts — or any other aspect of estate planning — give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today.

High-value tangible personal property — such as art or classic cars — often carries significant financial and sentimental value, making it essential to address these items in your estate plan.

High-value tangible personal property — such as fine art, jewelry, collectibles, or classic cars — often carries both significant financial and sentimental value, making it essential to address these items thoughtfully in your estate plan. Without clear direction, these assets can become a source of confusion, dispute, or even unintended tax consequences for your heirs. A well-crafted plan may include specific bequests in a Will or Trust, detailed memoranda or gift lists describing who should receive particular items, and, in some cases, professional appraisals to establish value for equitable distribution. For especially valuable or unique assets, you might also consider using specialized Trusts, forming an LLC for ownership and management, or providing guidance on whether the item should be retained, sold, or donated. By proactively addressing these issues, you can help preserve both the financial value and the personal legacy attached to these cherished possessions.

If you have estate planning questions, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. Be proudly represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.

When starting a new business, one of the first structural decisions is whether to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or elect to have your company taxed as an S corporation.

When starting a new business, one of the first structural decisions is whether to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or elect to have your company taxed as an S corporation. An LLC is often favored for its simplicity, flexibility, and relatively light administrative requirements, while still providing liability protection for the owners. An S corporation is not a different type of entity but rather a tax election available to qualifying businesses, and it may provide certain tax advantages by allowing owners to split income between salary and distributions, potentially reducing self-employment taxes. However, S corporations come with stricter requirements, including payroll obligations and limitations on ownership. The best choice depends on factors such as expected income, administrative tolerance, and long-term business goals, making it wise to consult with both legal and tax professionals before deciding which structure best supports your new venture.

If you’re thinking about starting a new business and have questions about LLCs and S corporations, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to see how we can be of service.

Estate planning becomes especially important in second-marriage situations, where spouses often want to provide for each other while also preserving assets for children from prior relationships.

Estate planning becomes especially important in second-marriage situations, where spouses often want to provide for each other while also preserving assets for children from prior relationships. Without careful planning, the default rules of inheritance in Washington can produce results that neither spouse intended — for example, a surviving spouse might legally receive assets that the deceased spouse expected would eventually pass to their own children. Tools such as Revocable Living Trusts, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, and thoughtfully drafted beneficiary designations can help balance these interests by allowing a surviving spouse to benefit from assets during their lifetime while ensuring that the remaining assets ultimately pass to the intended heirs. A well-crafted estate plan can reduce the risk of family conflict and provide clarity and security for everyone involved.

If you would like to talk about creating an estate plan to make sure your spouse and children are taken care of if something were to happen to you, 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.

Administering a Trust in Washington requires careful attention to both the terms of the Trust document and state law, particularly the duties imposed by the Washington Trust Act.

Administering a Trust in Washington requires careful attention to both the terms of the Trust document and state law, particularly the duties imposed by the Washington Trust Act. A Trustee must act in the best interests of the beneficiaries, manage and invest Trust assets prudently, keep accurate records, and provide required information to beneficiaries. Trustees are also responsible for tasks such as collecting and safeguarding assets, paying valid debts and expenses, filing any necessary tax returns, and ultimately distributing Trust property according to the Trust’s instructions. While many Trusts are designed to avoid probate, Trust administration can still involve complex legal and financial decisions, so Trustees often benefit from working with experienced legal and financial advisors to ensure they fulfill their fiduciary duties and minimize the risk of disputes.

If you have questions about Trusts and Trust administration, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to see how we can be of service.

In Washington, a spouse may bring a claim for loss of consortium when their partner is seriously injured due to someone else’s negligence.

In Washington, a spouse may bring a claim for loss of consortium when their partner is seriously injured due to someone else’s negligence. This claim recognizes that an injury does not only harm the person who was physically hurt — it can also damage the marital relationship itself. Under Washington law, the uninjured spouse may seek compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, emotional support, and the ability to share in the normal activities of married life that existed before the injury. Loss of consortium claims are typically brought alongside the injured spouse’s personal injury lawsuit and depend on proving the underlying liability of the at-fault party. Because these claims are fact-specific and can significantly affect the value of a case, couples dealing with a serious injury should consider speaking with a Washington personal injury attorney about whether a loss of consortium claim may apply.

If you or your spouse have been injured in an auto collision or other incident, give us a call at 263.858.5434 to make an appointment for a free initial consultation today.