sERVICE
estate administration
Our attorneys have extensive experience in helping families and loved ones navigate the estate administration process. Below is some general information to help you prepare for meeting with an attorney.
What is Estate Administration?
“Estate administration” is the winding up of the estate of a person who died without a Will (“intestate”).
about estate administration in seattle and king county
When a Washington state resident dies without a Will or other valid testamentary document in place, Washington intestate laws determine who can serve as the “administrator” of the estate and how the decedent’s assets will be divided.
At Salmon Bay Law Group, we work closely with the family member or friend who has stepped forward to administer the decedent’s estate. After our client is formally appointed by the court, we walk through each next step that will need to be taken.
What Steps are Involved for an estate administration?
The estate administration process has similarities to the probate process, but some of the steps required to handle the decedent’s intestate estate differ from those of a probate.
The first step is to get our client appointed by the court. Sometimes this involves obtaining the consent of other family members of the decedent. After the court appoints the administrator, that person is responsible for several tasks. Some of these tasks include:
- Locating and preparing an inventory of the decedent’s assets, debts, and liabilities
- Notifying heirs, creditors, and other interested parties of the estate administration proceedings
- Filing any necessary tax returns
- Distributing assets to the heirs according to Washington’s intestacy statute
Our goal is to help the administrator of the estate navigate the process as smoothly as possible.
Why Choose Salmon Bay Law Group?
We understand that estate administration can seem confusing and complex to individuals unfamiliar with the legal process, especially when handling the estate of a loved one who has recently passed. Our experienced Seatle estate administration attorneys are here for you every step of the way. We can help break the process down into manageable tasks, track deadlines, and keep the estate administration on track and moving forward in an organized manner.