The idea of estate planning might seem daunting, but it’s a necessary task everyone must undertake. Estate planning is the process of arranging for the distribution of an individual's assets after they pass away. A well-crafted estate plan can ensure your loved ones are taken care of, your final wishes are respected, and your assets are distributed as desired. However, if you don’t have an estate plan in place, you may be exposing your loved ones to conflict and financial issues that can make a trying situation even worse. In this blog post, we will explore what happens if you have no estate plan, what probate court is, and how an attorney can help.

What happens if you have no estate plan?

When an individual passes away without an estate plan, the courts will determine how their assets will be distributed. This process is known as “intestate succession”. The state of Washington has specific laws outlining how assets must be distributed when there is no will or estate plan in place. This can result in your assets being distributed in a way that you wouldn’t have chosen. The financial and emotional cost of probate court can also strain relationships since loved ones may be pitted against each other during the legal process.

What is probate court?

Probate court is where the legal process takes place to distribute assets of someone who has passed away. The probate process can be long, costly, and emotionally draining, especially if the deceased did not have an estate plan. Probate court can also leave loved ones feeling as if they have no control over the distribution of assets. This is a challenging and overwhelming experience for anyone who is already dealing with the grief of losing a loved one.



How can an attorney help?

An experienced estate planning attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process of probate court and guide you through creating a comprehensive estate plan. After reviewing your assets and liabilities, the attorney will propose strategic options to ensure that your assets are distributed in accordance with your wishes. Estate planning isn’t just about drafting a will; It's about protecting the people you love and ensuring they are taken care of when you are no longer around.

At Joseph W Creed, we can assist the Washington public with estate planning matters

Suppose you are a resident of Washington and do not have an estate plan in place. In that case, we encourage you to schedule a meeting with an attorney at Joseph W Creed. We will work with you to create a practical and comprehensive estate plan that caters to your specific needs and wishes. We understand that estate planning is a personal endeavor that requires sensitivity and empathy, and we take pride in providing the highest level of service.

Estate planning is an essential task every Washington resident must undertake. If you pass away without a plan, the court will determine how your assets will be distributed, which can cause financial and emotional turmoil for your loved ones. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you develop a comprehensive plan to protect your loved ones and ensure that your wishes are carried out. At Joseph W Creed, we have helped countless clients create sound estate plans. We will guide you through each step of the process and ensure peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.