by Josi R. Howard | Oct 2, 2026 | Blogs By Josi R. Howard, Estate & Trust Administration, Estate Planning
Credit Shelter Trusts as a Planning Strategy in Oregon Many people relocating to Oregon, as well as many long-term residents, are surprised to learn that Oregon has one of the most aggressive estate tax systems in the country. Not only is Oregon one of a relatively... 
by Marissa D. Bartolucci | Aug 6, 2026 | Blogs By Marissa D. Bartolucci, Estate & Trust Administration, Estate Planning
As of June 11, 2026, Washington probate practitioners will need to adjust to sweeping changes in the administration of intestate estates. House Bill 2445, known as the “Ending Probate for Profit” legislation, was enacted in response to highly publicized cases in which... 
by Josi R. Howard | Apr 11, 2026 | Blogs By Josi R. Howard, Estate & Trust Administration, Estate Planning
If you are domiciled in Washington, you should understand how Washington’s estate tax may affect your estate. Although the state recently increased its exemption amount, many people still have estates that exceed the taxable threshold. For those estates, Washington’s... 
by Marissa D. Bartolucci | Feb 28, 2026 | Blogs By Marissa D. Bartolucci, Estate & Trust Administration, Estate Planning
At least once a month, I hear some version of the same concern from a client or potential client, “I need a Will, because I don’t want the state to get my stuff.” This fear, which is often paired with a desire to avoid probate entirely, is one of the most common... 
by Josi R. Howard | Jan 3, 2026 | Blogs By Josi R. Howard, Estate & Trust Administration, Estate Planning
Preparing Your Personal Representative Helps Avoid a Stressful Estate Administration Creating an estate plan is an essential step in ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes while minimizing delays, confusion, and potential conflicts among your... 
by Marissa D. Bartolucci | Jun 23, 2025 | Adult Guardianship, Blogs By Marissa D. Bartolucci, Estate & Trust Administration, Estate Planning
When an adult becomes unable to make safe or sound decisions, or to handle their financial affairs on their own, ideally those decisions would be managed by someone that adult already chose in a Durable Power of Attorney. A well-drafted Power of Attorney allows a...