Wills & Trusts – Foundations of Your Estate Plan
Why Every Family Needs a Will
A last will and testament ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and not left to Washington’s intestacy laws. Wills allow you to name beneficiaries, appoint an executor, and designate guardians for minor children.
At the Law Offices of Tresa A. Sadler PLLC, we help families in Mill Creek, Everett, Snohomish, and King Counties draft wills that protect loved ones and provide clarity during a difficult time.
Avoid Probate and Plan for Continuity
A revocable living trust allows you to manage your assets during life and pass them directly to beneficiaries without probate after death. Trusts also provide continuity if you become incapacitated, giving your chosen trustee the authority to act without court intervention.
For high-net-worth families, trusts can help manage estate taxes, ensure privacy, and avoid delays in transferring wealth.
Understanding the Key Differences
Wills are straightforward, essential documents that everyone should have. Trusts, on the other hand, provide advanced benefits such as probate avoidance, asset protection, and possible tax advantages.
Often, the Answer Is Both
Many families benefit from having both a will and a trust. A pour-over will works with a living trust to ensure no assets are overlooked. Our attorneys evaluate each client’s unique circumstances to recommend the best combination.
Customized Plans for Every Family
We take time to understand your family dynamics, financial goals, and legacy wishes. From charitable bequests to blended families, our drafting process ensures no detail is overlooked.
Guidance Beyond the Paperwork
Our team also advises trustees and executors, offering support during trust administration or probate. This continuity gives families confidence that plans will be honored as intended.
Do wills have to go through probate in Washington?
Yes. A will must be probated, but it streamlines the process compared to having no will.
How much can I leave without estate tax?
Washington currently imposes estate tax on estates above a certain threshold (approx. $2.193 million). Federal exemptions are higher.
Can I write my own will?
While possible, DIY wills often fail to meet legal standards. An attorney ensures your wishes are enforceable.