Articles by John Cooney & Associates |
Estate Planning Primer |
Estate planning is the ordering of ones affairs so that upon death,
divorce or disability the least amount of economic and
emotional stress is placed on the family. The following
is a primer outlining
basic estate planning concepts and simple alternatives.
(Learn More) |
Probate |
Probate is the legal process for transferring property
when an owner dies. This court-supervised procedure is
used to validate a will and determine ownership of a deceased person's
("decedent's")
estate. (Learn More) |
Dissolution |
Family law has many dimensions and is influenced by legal as well
as social and economic factors. Laws affecting relationships
may change as traditions and attitudes evolve. Because these laws
are
complex and subject to change, this pamphlet is only intended
to provide general information; it is not a substitute for legal
advice. (Learn More) |
Trusts |
Estate planning involves many considerations and various legal
devices to make sure your heirs (beneficiaries) receive your property
according to your wishes. This pamphlet is intended to provide you
with general information about trusts, a popular-but sometimes complex-estate
planning tool. The contents are based on trust statutes of the state
of Washington, which were modified in 1984, and on the Tax Reform
Act of 1986. (Other estate planning subjects are discussed in State
Bar pamphlets on 'Wills' and "Probate."See back panel for
ordering information.) (Learn More) |
Revocable Living Trusts |
Revocable living trusts have become a popular alternative to the
traditional Washington will as a way to pass property on
when you die. Even though Washington's probate system is
among the simplest
and least expensive in the nation, many citizens are attracted
by the possibility of even quicker and easier asset transfers.
(Learn
More)
|
Wills |
A will is a legal document that determines what happens to your
property after your death. A will states who receives property and
in what amounts. Property distributed under the terms of the will
become the probate" estate. Making a will is a responsibility,
as well as a right that is protected by law. (Learn More) |
Understanding Your Auto Insurance |
If you're like most people, you probably don't read much of what
your auto insurance company sends you, other than the
bill. Should you be involved in an accident, however, it's important
that you
know what you've paid for and how to take maximum advantage
of your insurance coverage. (Learn More)
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