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Olympia Probate Attorneys

The loss of a loved one is a challenging and emotional time, and the complexities of the legal process that follows can overwhelm anyone. 

Probate, a court-supervised process that the law may require after someone dies, governs the distribution of the deceased person’s property. 

Working with a skilled Olympia probate attorney during this challenging period can give you the guidance, support, and peace of mind you need.

At Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, our experienced probate lawyers understand the intricacies of Washington state probate law and are dedicated to helping you navigate the process effectively and efficiently. 

Whether you are planning for the future or are currently dealing with the probate of a loved one’s estate, our team can provide the personalized service and attention you deserve.

While Washington state does not always require probate, working with an Olympia probate attorney can help you avoid potential problems, conflicts, and delays that may arise during the process.

Our lawyers will work to protect the estate’s representative, appropriately distribute assets to heirs, and handle all legal matters with professionalism and care.

We understand that each client’s situation is unique, so we take the time to listen to your concerns and tailor our approach to meet your needs. 

We make the probate process as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on what matters most during this challenging time.

In addition to guiding you through the probate process, our Olympia probate attorneys can also assist with creating a comprehensive estate plan. 

By working with us now, you can provide for your loved ones and fulfill your wishes after you are gone. 

Our team will work with you to develop a plan that reflects your unique goals and values, providing you with the confidence and peace of mind you deserve.

Contact us today at (360) 742-3500 for your free consultation and discuss your concerns. Our dedicated team can help you through this challenging time and handle your loved one’s estate with the utmost care and professionalism.

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Why Choose Our Olympia Probate Attorneys?

At Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, we understand that dealing with the loss of a loved one and going through probate can be difficult. 

That’s why our team of skilled and compassionate Olympia Real Estate attorneys provides you with the guidance, support, and personalized service you need during this challenging time.

  • Experience and Knowledge. With decades of combined experience, our team has the knowledge and skills to handle even the most complex probate matters. We stay up-to-date on the latest developments in Washington probate law, ensuring we provide our clients with the most effective legal solutions.
  • Personalized Approach. At Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, we understand that every client’s situation is unique. That’s why we take the time to listen to your concerns and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs. We make the probate process as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on what matters most during this difficult time.
  • Comprehensive Service. Our Olympia probate attorneys provide a full range of services to help you navigate the probate process from start to finish. From filing court documents and handling tax issues to inventorying assets and distributing the estate, we handle all aspects of probate with skill, attention, and detail. When you work with us, you can trust that your loved one’s estate will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
  • Affordable Solutions. Everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we strive to provide cost-effective solutions without compromising our service level. Our fees are transparent and reasonable, and we work with our clients to develop payment plans that fit their needs.
  • Client Satisfaction. Don’t just take our word for it – see what our clients say about their experience working with our Olympia probate attorneys. We are proud of the positive feedback from the individuals and families we have helped through the probate process. Visit our testimonials page to learn how we have made a difference in our clients’ lives.

Contact us today at (360) 742-3500 for your free consultation and learn how we can help you through this challenging time. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with the guidance, support, and peace of mind you deserve.

6 Ways Our Olympia Probate Attorneys Can Help with Estate Administration

The process of administering an estate after the loss of a loved one can be complex and overwhelming, even if a valid will is in place. 

As an estate representative or executor, you may be unsure of how the probate process works or what obligations must be fulfilled before the estate’s assets can be distributed. This is where our experienced Olympia probate lawyers can provide invaluable assistance and guidance.

At Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, our probate attorneys are well-versed in the intricacies of estate administration and can help you navigate the various tasks and responsibilities involved. 

When you retain our services, we will work closely with you to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to successfully administer the estate and distribute assets to the rightful beneficiaries.

When you retain our services, we will work closely with you to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to successfully administer the estate and distribute assets to the rightful beneficiaries.

Our comprehensive estate administration services include:

  • Court Procedures. We will file the probate petition to establish the executor’s authority and handle all necessary pleadings, such as inventories and appraisals of estate assets. We will present arguments to the court on your behalf if the will’s validity is questioned or contested.
  • Creditor Notifications. We will notify creditors of the estate and address any claims or inquiries they may have, ensuring that all valid debts are correctly handled.
  • Estate Tax Minimization. Our attorneys know strategies to minimize estate taxes, helping preserve the estate’s maximum value for distribution to beneficiaries.
  • Asset Transfer. We will assist in transferring the deceased’s title to real estate and other assets to the named beneficiaries, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
  • Guardian Issues. If the deceased left behind minor children, we can help you establish a legal guardian and handle any related matters.
  • Executor Duties. As the executor, you will be responsible for locating and notifying beneficiaries, managing estate assets, paying bills and taxes, and distributing property to the proper beneficiaries. Our attorneys will guide you through each step, providing the support and advice you need to fulfill your duties effectively.

Sometimes, our firm may be named the estate’s executor in the deceased’s will. In this role, we will handle all tasks related to the will’s probate, and our fees will be paid out of the estate.

Regardless of your situation, our Olympia probate lawyers are committed to providing you with the skilled legal assistance and personalized attention you need to administer your loved one’s estate successfully. 

We understand the emotional challenges you may face during this time, and we strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

If you need help with estate administration in Olympia, contact Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess today at (360) 742-3500 for your free consultation with one of our compassionate and knowledgeable probate attorneys. 

We are here to fulfill your loved one’s wishes with the utmost care and professionalism.

Preventing Common Estate Planning Mistakes with the Help of Probate Attorneys

Estate planning is a necessary process for ensuring that your wishes are carried out and that your loved ones are cared for after your passing. 

However, many people make common mistakes that can lead to probate problems, causing stress, conflict, and unnecessary expenses for their personal representatives and beneficiaries. 

At Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, our Olympia probate attorneys are dedicated to helping you avoid these pitfalls and create a solid estate plan that reflects your unique goals and circumstances.

Mistake 1: Not Having an Estate Plan

One of the most significant mistakes you can make is not having an estate plan. Without a will or other legal documents, your property will be distributed according to Washington state laws, which may not align with your wishes. 

By working with our attorneys, you can create a lawful estate plan that ensures your assets go to the people and charities you care about most.

Mistake 2: Not Updating Your Estate Plan

Life is full of changes, and your estate plan should reflect those changes. Updating your estate plan is essential as your assets, relationships, and priorities evolve. 

Our attorneys can help you review and revise your plan periodically to ensure it remains current and effective.

Mistake 3: Not Planning for Incapacity

Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after your death; it’s also about protecting yourself and your loved ones in the event of incapacity. 

Our attorneys can help you create powers of attorney and other documents that allow trusted individuals to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself.

Mistake 4: Having Confusing or Contradictory Documents

Your estate planning documents should be clear, concise, and understandable. Complicated or confusing language can lead to disputes among family members and potentially result in legal challenges to your will. 

Our attorneys will work with you to create documents that clearly state your wishes and minimize the risk of confusion or conflict.

Mistake 5: Not Considering Non-Probate Assets

Some assets, such as joint accounts with the right of survivorship, may not be covered by your will. 

If you want to ensure that these assets are distributed according to your wishes, you need to make the necessary changes while you can. Our Olympia probate attorneys can help you identify non-probate assets and develop a comprehensive plan that addresses all aspects of your estate.

Mistake 6: Creating or Altering a Will for the Wrong Reasons

Your estate plan should reflect your values, goals, and desire to support the people and causes you care about. It should not be used to control others or express anger or resentment. 

Our probate attorneys will work with you to create an estate plan motivated by your genuine wishes, not negative emotions or ulterior motives.

We understand the importance of a well-crafted estate plan and its role in protecting your legacy and loved ones. 

Our knowledgeable and compassionate Olympia probate attorneys are here to guide you through the process, helping you avoid common mistakes and create a plan that meets your unique needs.

If you’re ready to take control of your future and ensure that your wishes are carried out, Contact us today at (360) 742-3500 for your free consultation with one of our experienced probate attorneys. 

Together, we can create an estate plan that provides peace of mind and protects the people and causes that matter most to you.

Call Our Olympia Probate Lawyers for Help

At Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, our Olympia probate lawyers are dedicated to helping you and your family ensure your wishes are fulfilled after you’re gone. 

We understand the importance of a well-crafted estate plan and its role in protecting your legacy and loved ones.

Our team provides personalized service tailored to your unique needs. We prioritize building trust with our clients by educating them about the law, presenting options, creating effective plans, drafting legally sound documents, and ensuring their plans are correctly implemented.

When our probate lawyers handle estate planning, we take great care to ensure that all legal papers are valid and minimize the risk of potential legal challenges. 

Relying on do-it-yourself online will forms or working with a lawyer lacking extensive estate planning experience can increase the likelihood of complications and legal disputes during the probate process.

Our Olympia probate lawyers are here to assist you and your family with any probate matters you may encounter. We have the knowledge, experience, and compassion to guide you through the process and help you achieve your goals.

If you’re ready to take control of your future and ensure that your wishes are carried out, contact our Olympia office today at (360) 742-3500 for your free consultation with one of our skilled probate attorneys. 

Together, we can create an estate plan that provides peace of mind and protects the people and causes that matter most to you.

Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess – Olympia Office

Address: 111 21st Avenue Southwest

Olympia, WA 98501

Phone: (360) 742-3500