Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Washington

Re: How to set up a Family Trust

Trusts are often a more complicated way to accomplish what a will can do. Your mother certainly can state in her will that she wants the house to go to you, and other assets to go to your siblings. If estate taxes may be an issue, your mother should consider how she wants the taxes apportioned-- shared equally among the siblings, or taken out of the "money" part of the estate? Feel free to call or email if you have questions!

Re: How to set up a Family Trust

Not necessarily. A will could accomplish the same thing and is less expensive up front. The main advantage with a Trust is the ability to avoid probate IF the trust is properly set up and funded. But specific provisions in the Will could accomplish the same goals. If there are estate tax issues -- the estate is over $1,500,000 -- there may be additional issues to consider.

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