Estate Planning in Washington | WA Legal Resources | FastCounsel

Washington: Accessing a Child’s Settlement Money Before Age 18

How parents and guardians can access a child’s settlement funds in Washington This FAQ-style article explains common ways a parent or guardian may gain access to settlement money for a minor under Washington law, practical steps to take, typical court requirements, and alternatives commonly used for college or medical expenses. This is educational only and […]

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Washington — How to Make Sure a Wrongful Death Settlement Is Filed and Split Correctly

How to make sure a wrongful death settlement is filed correctly with the court and split as agreed Short answer: Use a clear written settlement agreement, work with the personal representative or appointed claimant, document and resolve liens and fees, put the proceeds in escrow or under court supervision if needed, file a proposed order […]

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How to Get a Vehicle Diminished Value Appraisal in Washington

Detailed Answer Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal advice. I am not a lawyer. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed Washington attorney or contact the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Overview — how diminished value is proved in Washington Diminished value is the loss in a vehicle’s market value after […]

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Washington: How Prior Accidents Before You Owned a Truck Affect a Diminished Value Claim

Detailed Answer: How prior accidents that occurred before you owned a truck affect a diminished value claim under Washington law What diminished value means Diminished value is the reduction in a vehicle’s market value after it has been damaged and repaired. Even with high-quality repairs, many buyers will pay less for a vehicle that has […]

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Washington: Setting Up an Annuity for Settlement Funds Held for a Child

How to set up an annuity for settlement funds held for a child (Washington) Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer. This is general information, not legal advice. Consult a Washington attorney and appropriate financial professionals before acting. Short answer If you have settlement funds that belong to a child in Washington, common ways to protect […]

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Washington: Challenging Transfers Made Under a Power of Attorney When Capacity Is in Doubt

Can you challenge transfers made under a power of attorney if you suspect your grandfather lacked capacity? Short answer: Yes — under Washington law you can challenge transfers made by an agent under a power of attorney (POA) if you have a good-faith belief the principal lacked capacity, the POA was invalid, the agent exceeded […]

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Washington — What to do if you don’t have a doctor’s note after an ER visit

What to do if you don’t have a doctor’s note for days missed after an ER visit Short answer: Collect alternate medical documentation (ER after‑visit summary, billing statement, medical records), notify your employer immediately, check Washington paid sick leave and paid family & medical leave rules, and ask your employer what proof they will accept. […]

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Washington: What Happens When a Co‑Tenant Refinances or Takes a Home‑Equity Loan Without Your Approval

Understanding unauthorized refinances and home‑equity loans involving co‑owned inherited property in Washington Disclaimer: This information is for general education only and is not legal advice. Laws change and each case is different. Consult a Washington attorney to get advice tailored to your situation. Overview — how co‑ownership works and why it matters When multiple people […]

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How Settlement Funds Are Delivered in Washington: What to Expect After the Insurance Check Is Issued

Detailed answer — what to expect when a settlement check is issued Short version: after the insurer issues a settlement check, the money usually passes through your lawyer’s client trust account (or is issued jointly to you and your lawyer) so liens, fees, and costs can be paid first. You then receive the net amount. […]

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Challenging a Suspected Forged Will in Washington: Steps, Evidence, and Next Moves

Detailed Answer Quick overview: If you believe a will offered for probate in Washington is forged, you can challenge it in the Washington superior court that is handling the probate. The usual path is a civil will contest or a petition to vacate probate. You can also report suspected forgery to law enforcement. Acting quickly […]

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