Navigating the Probate Process

What is Probate?

Probate is the formal legal (court) process used to settle the estate of a deceased person. While Washington State has a relatively streamlined process, it often occurs during a time of immense personal grief and can be tricky and time-consuming to navigate alone.

At Ludwick Law Group, we serve as your knowledgeable guide, helping ensure the estate is settled accurately, efficiently, and with minimal stress for your family.

How We Guide You Through Probate

Our attorneys manage the entire process, whether the decedent died with a Will or without one.

Dying "Testate" (With a Will)

If your loved one died with a valid Will in place (dying "testate"), the Will specifies their wishes and names the individual responsible for settling the estate, known as the Personal Representative or Executor.

  • We prepare and file the necessary Petition with the Washington State Superior Court.

  • We secure the Letters Testamentary, the court order that grants the Personal Representative the legal authority to act.

  • The Personal Representative, guided by our firm, then has the authority to:

    • Inventory all assets of the estate.

    • Settle any outstanding debts or obligations (including taxes).

    • Distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries named in the Will.

Dying "Intestate" (Without a Will)

If your loved one died without a Will (dying "intestate"), state law dictates the legal rules for administration and distribution.

  • In this case, Washington State law determines who has the legal authority to administer the Estate and who the legal heirs are.

  • We work with the legally entitled parties to petition the court and guide the entire process, ensuring compliance with the Laws of Intestacy to achieve a legally compliant outcome.

Our Commitment to You

Dealing with the estate of a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of court deadlines and legal filings. Our attorneys step in to ensure that all obligations are met and assets are transferred properly, allowing you to focus on your family.

We are here to demystify the process and ensure the estate of your loved one is settled according to their wishes and/or the laws of the State of Washington.