Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and your legacy. A clear, legally sound will allows you to decide how your assets will be distributed, who will manage your estate, and who will care for your minor children if needed. Our Seattle, WA wills lawyer is here to support you through the entire process putting a solid, personalized will in place. At Eastside Estate Planning, we provide practical, straightforward advice and customized planning solutions designed to give you confidence and peace of mind. Contact our office today to learn how we can help you create a plan that reflects your goals and values.
Will Lawyer Seattle, WA
A will is the foundation of many estate plans. It allows you to name beneficiaries, appoint a personal representative, and outline how your property should be handled after your passing. Without a valid will in place, Washington probate courts will determine how your estate is distributed, which may not align well with your wishes or your family’s needs.
Our Seattle wills lawyer works with individuals and families across a wide range of situations. Whether you are creating your first will, updating an existing plan after a life change, or coordinating your will with a broader trust and tax strategy, we tailor our approach to your unique circumstances. For us to do our job well, we believe it’s important for us to understand your priorities and explain your options in plain language, so that you can make informed decisions on every matter.
At Eastside Estate Planning, we go the extra mile for our clients. Beyond drafting documents, we guide you through the entire process, including identifying assets, selecting fiduciaries, planning for tax considerations, and coordinating your will with other elements of your estate plan. We also help make sure your documents are properly executed so they meet Washington’s legal requirements and reduce the risk of disputes later on.
When Drafting Or Updating A Will, Legal Experience Matters
Creating a will may seem simple on the surface, but even small mistakes or omissions can create confusion, delays, or legal challenges for your loved ones. Working with an experienced attorney helps ensure your documents are clear, enforceable, and aligned with your broader financial and family goals. At Eastside Estate Planning, we’re led by founder Robert Franco, a Washington native who has dedicated his practice to estate planning and tax matters. His background includes years of in-house experience and advanced legal training, which allows him to identify issues that may not be obvious at first glance. His approach is built on:
- Clear communication and personalized guidance tailored to your needs
- A detailed review of your assets, family structure, and long-term goals
- Practical advice on wills, trusts, and potential tax considerations
- Flat-fee pricing that promotes transparency and predictability
- A convenient, client-focused process designed for busy schedules
Many clients appreciate our straightforward, flat-fee structure, which offers transparency and value without sacrificing quality. We also provide a simple, virtual process that makes estate planning more convenient for busy individuals and families throughout the greater Seattle area. Throughout the process, our Seattle wills attorney remains available to answer questions and provide clarity whenever you need it. If you are ready to create or update your estate plan, we are ready to help. Contact us at Eastside Estate Planning today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward protecting your future and your loved ones.
Types of Wills Services We Offer
A will is one of the most important legal documents a person can have, yet many people put off creating one simply because they are unsure where to start. Understanding the different types of wills and related services available can help you make informed decisions about protecting your assets and your family's future.
- Simple Will — A straightforward document that outlines how your property and assets should be distributed after you pass away. This is often the right starting point for individuals with uncomplicated estates and clear wishes.
- Testamentary Trust Will — This type of will creates a trust that only goes into effect upon your death. It is commonly used by parents who want assets held and managed for minor children until they reach a certain age.
- Pour-Over Will — A pour-over will works alongside a living trust, directing any assets not already in the trust to transfer into it at death. This helps maintain a unified estate plan and avoids assets falling outside the intended structure.
- Guardian Designations — For parents of minor children, naming a guardian within a will is one of the most meaningful decisions in the process. Without this designation, a Washington court will determine guardianship without your input.
- Will Drafting and Execution — Washington State has specific requirements for a will to be legally valid, including witness signatures under RCW 11.12.020. A wills lawyer Seattle residents rely on can make sure your document meets all state requirements.
- Will Updates and Amendments (Codicils) — Major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant changes in assets are common reasons to revisit an existing will. A codicil formally amends your current will without requiring a full rewrite.
- Will Reviews — If you have an older will drafted in another state or written without legal guidance, an attorney can assess whether it still reflects your intentions and is enforceable in Washington.
- Coordination with Beneficiary Designations — Assets like retirement accounts and life insurance pass outside of a will entirely. Reviewing these alongside your will prevents conflicts and unintended distributions.
- Probate Support for Will Execution — After a person passes, the will must go through Washington's probate process before assets are distributed. Legal guidance during this stage helps executors carry out their responsibilities correctly and efficiently.
Having a properly drafted will in place gives you control over what happens to your estate and removes uncertainty for the people you leave behind. If you are ready to put your wishes in writing, Eastside Estate Planning can walk you through the process and help you build a plan that fits your situation.