WILLS & TRUSTS
Wills & Trusts Attorney Serving Washington State
Your family's future depends on decisions you make today. At Aster Law Firm, we understand that creating a will or trust isn't just about legal documents, it's about ensuring your loved ones are protected and your wishes are honored when it matters most.
Based in Spokane and serving families throughout Washington state via secure virtual appointments, we've dedicated our practice to helping people navigate the complexities of wills and trusts. Our focused approach means we stay current with every change in Washington law, every new strategy that could benefit your family, and every detail that makes the difference between a basic document and comprehensive protection.
Why You Need a Will in Washinton State
Many people postpone creating a will, thinking it's only necessary when they're older or wealthy. The truth is, if you own any assets or have children, you need a will today. If you die without a will in Washington, your assets are distributed according to Washington's intestacy laws (Chapter 11.04 RCW), which may not align with your wishes.
Without a Will:
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Washington state decides who gets your assets
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Your spouse may not receive what you intended
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Unmarried partners receive nothing
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Minor children's inheritance goes into court-supervised accounts
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Family disputes become more likely
What a Properly Drafted Will Does:
Under Washington's probate law (RCW 11.12.020), your will must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two competent witnesses.
Our Washington wills and trusts attorneys ensure your will:
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Clearly expresses your wishes for asset distribution
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Names guardians for minor children
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Designates a trusted executor
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Minimizes family conflicts
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Addresses Washington's community property laws under RCW 26.16
Helping you create peace of mind so you can enjoy your journey!
Why You Need More Than a Will: The Power of Trusts
While a will is essential, trusts offer powerful advantages that wills cannot provide:
Trust Benefits:
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No court involvement, faster distribution
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Family finances remain confidential
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Incapacity Protection: Continues operating if you're unable to manage affairs
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Professional oversight for beneficiaries
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Potential to significantly reduce estate taxes
Revocable Living Trusts Under Chapter 11.103 RCW (Washington Trust Act), revocable trusts provide:
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Complete control during your lifetime
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Seamless transition if you become incapacitated
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Probate avoidance for all trust assets
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Privacy for your family's financial affairs
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Flexibility to modify or revoke anytime
Irrevocable Trusts For families with significant assets, irrevocable trusts offer:
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Asset protection from creditors
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Estate tax reduction
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Generation-skipping benefits
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Charitable planning opportunitie
Special Needs Trusts Protect vulnerable family members while preserving their eligibility for government benefits, following federal Social Security Administration guidelines and Washington state requirements.
Types of Trusts
Life is unpredictable, and having the right powers of attorney ensures your wishes are honored if you become unable to make decisions yourself. A durable power of attorney protects your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. Under Washington law (Chapter 11.125 RCW), these documents must be properly executed. Without a durable power of attorney in Washington state, your family may need costly court proceedings to manage your affairs.
In addition to wills & trusts and powers of attorney, we allways recommend having a Healthcare Directive. This legal document is governed by the Washington's Health Care Decisions Act (Chapter 70.122 RCW) and will ensure your medical wishes are respected, now and in the future.
Powers of Attorney
Why Choose Aster Law Firm?
Our concentrated focus on wills and trusts means we provide:
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Deeper knowledge of trust and will strategies
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Up-to-date understanding of Washington law changes
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More efficient document preparation
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Better outcomes for your family
Convenient Virtual Service Across Washington
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Statewide Availability: Serving all Washington residents through secure virtual appointments
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No Travel Required: Meet with us from the comfort of your home
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Flexible Scheduling: Virtual meetings that fit your busy schedule
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Same Quality Service: Full wills and trusts services delivered virtually
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Secure Technology: Protected, confidential video consultations
Don't Wait – Protect Your Family Today
Every day you delay creating your will or trust is a day your family remains vulnerable. The peace of mind from knowing your affairs are in order is invaluable. Contact Aster Law today at sblakemore@asterlawfirm.com or at (360) 262-2525 to schedule your virtual consultation with Washington's dedicated wills and trusts attorneys.