How can a client verify that creditor notice requirements were satisfied in the original estate to rely on the two-year rule in Washington?
Detailed Answer In Washington, a personal representative must follow the creditor notice process outlined in RCW 11.40.020 to invoke the two-year bar on creditor claims. Under RCW 11.40.020(5), any claim not presented within two years of the decedent’s date of death is barred, subject to limited exceptions. To verify that notice requirements were satisfied in […]
Read article →Should a Personal Representative Open an Estate Account in Washington?
Detailed Answer Definition and Purpose An estate account is a bank account opened in the name of the decedent’s estate. It holds all funds collected by a personal representative (also called an executor or administrator) after probate begins. The primary goal is to keep estate assets separate from your personal finances. Legal Duty Under Washington […]
Read article →What steps are needed to bring real property into the estate in order to pay claims of the estate in Washington?
Detailed Answer When a decedent owned real property in Washington solely in their name, you must include it in the probate estate so the personal representative can sell it to pay valid claims. Below are the steps: File a Petition for Probate: The personal representative must file a probate petition in the superior court of […]
Read article →Can I Seek Reimbursement from the Estate for Paying the Funeral Bill in WA?
Detailed Answer Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for advice on your specific situation. Under Washington law, you can seek reimbursement from a deceased person’s estate for reasonable funeral expenses you paid on the decedent’s behalf. Washington’s probate statutes grant funeral expenses priority […]
Read article →How can an estate administrator verify that the payment fully satisfied the outstanding vehicle loan in WA?
Detailed Answer When an estate administrator handles a vehicle with an outstanding loan, Washington law requires confirmation that the debt is fully paid before transferring or selling the vehicle. Vehicle liens in Washington fall under Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and the Department of Licensing’s title rules. Follow these steps to verify […]
Read article →How Does a Missing or Incomplete Marriage Certificate Affect a Surviving Spouse’s Allowance Claim in Washington?
Detailed Answer Washington Family Allowance Under RCW 11.36.010 Under Washington law, a surviving spouse can seek a family allowance from the decedent’s probate estate to cover living expenses during administration. RCW 11.36.010 grants the court authority to set aside a reasonable allowance for the surviving spouse and minor children. To secure this allowance, the spouse […]
Read article →What is the process and timeline for applying to become the personal representative of an estate in Washington?
Detailed Answer In Washington, a personal representative (sometimes called an executor) manages a deceased person’s estate. You must petition the Superior Court in the county where the decedent lived. Follow these steps under Washington law: Step 1. Determine Eligibility If the decedent left a valid will, it usually names a personal representative. The court gives […]
Read article →How Can a Client Obtain Appointment as Administrator When a Higher-Priority Heir Exists in Washington?
How to Obtain Appointment as Administrator When a Higher-Priority Heir Exists in Washington Detailed Answer Under Washington law, intestate succession and appointment of administrators follow a strict priority order. RCW 11.36.010 designates the surviving spouse or registered domestic partner first, then children, parents, siblings, and so on. When a higher-priority heir exists, a lower-priority person […]
Read article →How can a guardian or guardian ad litem be appointed to manage a minor’s interest in an estate in Washington?
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult an attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Detailed Answer When a minor in Washington State inherits assets or holds an interest in an estate, the court must appoint someone to protect and manage those interests. There are […]
Read article →What Steps Protect a Minor’s Inheritance in Washington When the Decedent Dies Without a Will?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Detailed Answer When someone dies without a valid will in Washington, state intestacy laws under RCW Title 11 govern asset distribution. If an heir is under 18, Washington law provides multiple safeguards to protect the minor’s inheritance. 1. Appointment of a Personal […]
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