It is first important to identify what your estate planning needs might be. There will likely be less work involved in planning for the distribution of a family home and bank account, for example, versus managing a large estate with complex assets. There are also key considerations for families protecting vulnerable relatives with special needs.
Before you start searching for an estate planning attorney, it is helpful to put together a financial statement that reflects the current value of your assets and liabilities. This gives a sense of the scope of estate planning you might need. If your assets approach two million dollars ($2 million), you might have a Washington taxable estate and should retain an estate planning attorney with experience in estate and gift tax planning.
If you are interested in protecting loved ones with special needs, it is important to evaluate their expected long-term needs: housing, food, health care, assisted living, rehabilitation care, designated guardians, lifestyle preferences, etc.
At GTH, our estate planning team has more than 100 years of experience in guiding families through planning for all sizes of estates. Contact our Tacoma or Seattle office to schedule a consultation so we can start your estate planning process today.