Losing a loved one is never easy. For families in Edmonds, WA and throughout Washington State, the emotional toll is often compounded by the responsibilities that come with settling a loved one’s estate. Probate – the legal process for distributing assets after death – can be time-consuming, confusing, and stressful, especially if you’re trying to manage everything while grieving.
At Washington Elder Law, we work with clients across the Greater Seattle and Puget Sound region to simplify the probate process and help avoid common mistakes that can lead to unnecessary delays or legal trouble.
Here are some of the biggest missteps we see and how you can avoid them.
1. Mishandling Estate Assets
One of the first duties of an executor or personal representative is to locate and secure the decedent’s assets. This includes everything from bank accounts to real property. Each asset requires a different approach:
- Bank and investment accounts may need to be frozen or closed
- Real estate should be secured and maintained
- Valuables and personal items should be inventoried and stored safely
Failing to act quickly or correctly can expose the estate to risks like theft, property damage, or legal claims.
2. Misclassifying Assets
Not every asset needs to go through the formal probate process. In Washington State, some types of property are considered non-probate assets, including:
- Property held in a revocable or irrevocable trust
- Financial accounts with named beneficiaries (like retirement or life insurance accounts)
- Real estate or other property held in joint tenancy with rights of survivorship
Correctly categorizing assets from the beginning can help streamline the process and reduce court involvement.
3. Not Establishing Date of Death Values
A critical part of estate administration is determining the fair market value of all estate assets as of the date of death. These values impact everything from tax filings to asset distribution.
You may need to bring in a professional appraiser for real estate, collectibles, or business interests. Delaying this step can cause confusion and make it harder to fairly divide assets among heirs.
Local Support for Probate in the Puget Sound Area
Navigating probate on your own can be overwhelming. At Washington Elder Law, we offer complimentary vision meetings to help residents of Edmonds and the Greater Seattle Area understand their probate responsibilities and take the next best steps.
Whether you’ve recently been named executor or just want to learn what probate involves, we’re here to help you approach the process with clarity and confidence.
Ready to simplify the probate process? Contact Washington Elder Law today or call 206-448-1011 to schedule your complimentary vision meeting. We’ll help ensure your loved one’s estate is handled with care and in full compliance with Washington law.
