Estate planning
Estate planning lawyer in Silverdale
Wills, trusts, powers of attorney and probate guidance for families in Silverdale, Bremerton, Poulsbo and across Kitsap, Jefferson and Mason Counties.
- 4.5 on Google, 55 reviews
- Led by a Marine Corps veteran
- Kitsap, Jefferson and Mason Counties
- Office in Silverdale
Estate planning
Estate planning is not only for later in life
Many people think estate planning is something only older or seriously ill people need to think about. Those are important times to review a plan, but anyone with a home, savings, a business or people who depend on them benefits from having one in place.
If you have children, a spouse or other family members who rely on you, it is never too early to start. A plan lets you decide who receives your property, who cares for minor children and who can make financial and medical decisions if you cannot. Without one, those decisions may be left to Washington's default rules and the courts.
Kitsap Law Group helps families in Silverdale, Bremerton, Poulsbo and the surrounding communities put plans in place that fit their circumstances, whatever their age or health. We take time to make sure every question is answered and that the family feels comfortable with the plan.
- Wills and trusts drafted and reviewed
- Powers of attorney and health care directives
- Guidance through probate when a loved one passes
Peace of mind for Kitsap families
Estate planning is about making things easier for the people you leave behind. A clear plan reduces guesswork and conflict, and lets your family focus on each other rather than on paperwork. We serve clients in Silverdale, Bremerton, Poulsbo, Port Orchard, Bainbridge Island and throughout Kitsap, Jefferson and Mason Counties, and we take the time to make sure everyone understands the plan.
What we handle
Estate planning services
Creating an end of life plan can feel stressful and time consuming. It does not have to be. These are the pieces most plans include.
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Wills and trusts
Drafting and reviewing wills and trusts so your property passes the way you intend.
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Probate
Guidance for personal representatives and families through the Washington probate process.
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Powers of attorney
Durable financial powers of attorney naming someone you trust to handle your affairs if you cannot.
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Health care planning
Health care powers of attorney and directives that record your wishes and name who speaks for you.
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Plan reviews
Reviewing an existing will or trust after a marriage, divorce, birth, move to Washington or change in property.
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Asset review
A full look at what you own and how it is titled, including real estate, accounts and business interests, so nothing falls through the gaps.
Our approach
A plan built around your family
When you work with us, we meet with you to talk through your finances, your goals and your concerns. We explain the options in plain language and draft documents that reflect your decisions, not a one-size template.
Talk about goals
Who do you want to provide for, who should make decisions for you, and what worries you most?
Review your assets
We look at your property, accounts, beneficiary designations and how each is titled.
Draft the documents
We prepare your will, trust, powers of attorney and directives and walk you through each one.
Sign and keep current
We oversee proper signing and recommend reviewing the plan after major life changes.
Who handles it
Attorneys who handle estate planning
Bill H. Broughton has tried bench and jury trials involving will contests, and brings that experience of how estates are challenged to the planning and probate work our firm handles.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Who needs an estate plan?
Anyone who owns property, has savings or has people who depend on them. Parents of minor children especially benefit, because a will is where you can name who would care for your children.
What happens if I die without a will in Washington?
Washington law has default rules that decide who inherits, and a court appoints someone to administer the estate. The result may not match what you would have chosen, and it can add delay and stress for your family.
What documents are usually part of an estate plan?
Most plans include a will, a durable power of attorney for financial matters and health care documents such as a health care power of attorney and directive. Some people also benefit from a trust, depending on their property and goals.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Review it after any major change: marriage, divorce, a birth or death in the family, a move from another state, buying or selling significant property, or starting a business. Otherwise, a check every few years is a good habit.
Does estate planning help with taxes?
The decisions you make in your plan affect how property is divided and can affect what estate taxes may be owed. Whether taxes are a concern depends on the size and makeup of the estate, and we can talk through that with you.
Do you help families after a loved one has passed?
Yes. We guide personal representatives and families through probate and the administration of an estate in Kitsap, Jefferson and Mason Counties.
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