Articles by Washington State Cooney Law Offices, P.S.

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)