Estate Planning

King County Estate Planning Lawyers

 At Scarff Law Firm, PLLC, we assist clients in the transfer and disposition of family assets and businesses by offering a full range of estate planning services and legal strategies. We take the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions every step of the way.

Wills and Trusts

Both wills and trusts have advantages and disadvantages. A will is created to make the probate process move along more smoothly and may contain a trust within it.

A trust manages assets in trust for specific beneficiaries and is not subject to probate proceedings.

Probate

Probate is a legal process used to manage and distribute property of a deceased person. When someone dies, assets which do not pass directly to beneficiaries through a community property agreement, right of survivorship, trust, etc. are subject to formal probate proceedings. Certain “small estates,” as defined by Washington state law, may qualify for a simplified method of transferring property.

Tax Planning 

Gifts, items received during an inheritance and all assets transferred between individuals or businesses can be taxed. Our lawyers will address your concerns about taxes that may be levied against your estate, now and in the future.

Charitable Contributions

When planning your estate, ensuring that your wishes are honored is the top priority. Charitable contributions can be made through a standard will but, depending on your circumstances, it may not be the best option. Our lawyers will take your situation into consideration and provide legal advice geared toward achieving your objectives.

Asset Protection Planning

Our attorneys will advise on the best methods for protecting and managing each asset, according to your specific goals.

Health Care Directives and Durable Powers of Attorney

Should you become disabled, terminally ill, or unable to care for yourself or communicate your wishes, important decisions will be made on your behalf. The legal directives laid in place during a time when you were of sound judgment will be used to make those decisions. We provide an efficient administration of both financial and health-related affairs through the creation of durable powers of attorney and a properly executed healthcare directive.

Mercer Island Estate Tax Attorneys

From our offices on Mercer Island, Scarff Law Firm represents clients in King County and communities throughout western Washington. 

Contact us to speak with one of our experienced King County estate planning lawyers to briefly discuss your legal matters and determine whether Scarff Law Firm can meet your needs.