How to Obtain and Use a Court-Ordered Subpoena to Gather Estate Records in Washington
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer Under Washington law, you can use a court-ordered subpoena to compel the production of estate records held by third parties or non-party witnesses. Estate records often reside with banks, […]
Read article →What authorization forms must an heir sign to direct distribution of real property sale proceeds in Washington?
Detailed Answer When a decedent’s real property in Washington is sold—often during probate—the personal representative (executor) oversees the transaction. Heirs (distributees) generally do not sign sale documents themselves, but they must complete certain authorization and release forms to receive their share of the net sale proceeds. Below are the key forms and legal requirements under […]
Read article →How Can a Former Spouse or Survivor Assert Entitlement to Surplus Funds Following the Owner’s Death or Divorce?
How Can a Former Spouse or Survivor Assert Entitlement to Surplus Funds Following the Owner’s Death or Divorce? 1. Detailed Answer When a property in Washington state sells at a trustee’s foreclosure sale for more than the total debt, the excess proceeds become surplus funds. State law governs how former spouses and survivors—heirs or personal […]
Read article →What options exist for selling or auctioning personal property to reimburse estate expenses and equalize distributions among heirs?
What options exist for selling or auctioning personal property to reimburse estate expenses and equalize distributions among heirs? Detailed Answer In Washington, a personal representative (PR) or executor may sell or auction estate-owned personal property to pay debts, reimburse administration costs, and ensure each heir receives an equal share. Key legal authorities include RCW 11.76.080 […]
Read article →How to distinguish assets belonging to a deceased person’s estate from those held by a corporation in Washington
How to Distinguish Assets of a Deceased Person’s Estate from Those Held by a Corporation in Washington Detailed Answer 1. Understand the Separate Legal Entities Washington law treats a decedent’s estate and a corporation as two distinct legal entities. When someone dies, their personal property becomes part of the probate estate. See RCW 11.04.020. A […]
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