Second marriages bring clarity in some areas of life — and complexity in others. Second marriages bring clarity in some areas of life — and complexity in others.

For many couples in Bellevue, Issaquah, and throughout King County, the question is not whether to create an estate plan. It is how to create one that honors both a current spouse and children from a prior relationship.

Washington law supplies default rules. But default rules rarely reflect blended family dynamics.

Many Washington residents assume the federal estate tax rules are the only ones that matter.

In reality, the Washington estate tax often affects families at much lower levels of wealth.

A colleague recently shared a story that illustrates the difference between having a will and having a true estate plan.

He met with a woman in her late fifties after her husband passed away. They had what many people would consider a “normal” situation: and adult son children, a few properties, retirement accounts, and a will that had been created years earlier.

Divorce is one of the most important times to review your estate plan.

During a marriage, many financial and legal decisions are structured around a spouse. They may be the primary beneficiary on retirement accounts, the agent under a power of attorney, or the decision-maker in a health care directive.

After a divorce, those arrangements may no longer reflect your wishes.

Putting your home in a trust is a smart estate planning move, but it can create unexpected insurance complications if not handled correctly. Learn how to protect one of your most valuable assets by properly aligning your homeowner's insurance with your trust. Read more...

Imagine this: You're in your twenties and you fill out a form at work, naming your significant other as the beneficiary of your retirement account. Fast forward 28 years - you've long since broken up, lived a full life, and died, and your ex gets your now-million-dollar nest egg. Sound far-fetched? It's not. Read more…

What is a legacy, really? And how does it apply to you? Read more…

As an LGBTQIA+ non-biological parent, June's arrival sparks a flurry of Pride celebrations reminding you of the remarkable progress the community has made, while also shining a light on the ongoing fight for full equality. One area where you may still face unique legal hurdles is in ensuring your parental rights are properly protected, if you are a non-biological parent. Read more…

When your child turns 18, they’re legally considered an adult even though they have a lot more growing to do (though they may not think so!). Just like any other adult, their health and financial information is protected by privacy laws. But you can still step in and help them if you and your child plan ahead. Read more…

You've always strived to provide the best for your loved ones, ensuring their well-being and securing their future. However, even the most well-intentioned plans can fail if you overlook the complexities of estate planning. Read more…

Whether it’s a breakup, divorce, or the death of a loved one, every relationship eventually comes to an end. Whether you have planned for that ending or not will have a real impact on you, your partner, and your assets. Read more…

Last time, we explored 7 ways to show your finances and your family some love with smart, tax-advantaged financial tips for the new year. Read Part 2 of our series now for even more. Read more…

February is the month of love – but there's a different kind of love that deserves our attention: the love we show ourselves, our family, and our walletbook through thoughtful financial planning. Read more…

Many assume that in the event of their untimely passing, their children will automatically be cared for and inherit their assets. However, the reality is far more complex and potentially unsettling.

Let's unpack why relying on assumptions alone could leave your children's future in uncertain hands.

Life insurance is an important part of protecting your family, but if you don’t set it up the right way, there’s a good chance it won’t help your loved ones the way you want it to. Here’s what to do instead…

In this week’s blog, we take the conversation about money and death to a deeper level with your parents and family to truly understand your family’s financial picture and your plan for the future. Read now…

In this blog, we'll explore why adding your partner to your Will and estate plan isn’t just a romantic gesture but the ultimate act of love. Read now…

If you have a blended family, estate planning is critical if you want your loved ones to avoid court and conflict in the event you die or become incapacitated. But planning for your blended family is also a great opportunity to strengthen your family bond through open conversations about your wishes and goals for your family and the love you have for them. Read more here …