Planning your estate involves considering what will happen to your assets after your death. The most commonly known aspect of estate planning is preparing a will. However, you have other options that could make it easier for your family once you are gone. What is a...
Gig Harbor Estate Planning And Probate Law Blog
Tips for managing an inherited vacation home with your siblings
While inheriting a vacation home sounds like a dream come true, for many siblings it becomes one long nightmare. Sometimes siblings disagree on how to maintain a property, or even if they should keep it at all. Other times disagreements over scheduling or sentimental...
Advice on handling disputes with neighbors
In a perfect world, everyone would naturally get along. The reality is that interpersonal conflicts can surface between neighbors. Many issues become a source of friction. Common disagreements revolve around noise violations, property lines, unkempt lawns and pets. Be...
What are easements and encroachments?
A property survey is vital for determining plot boundaries and identifying easements or encroachments on your land. While they both entail other people using your property, the difference lies with authorization. Easements An easement is the right for someone else to...
Questions to ask neighbors before purchasing a house
Buying a new home is exciting, but there are many things to take into consideration before making the down payment and committing to such a large purchase. In addition to factors such as schools, property taxes, and nearby traffic, it is necessary to consider the...
3 tax advantages of creating a charitable remainder trust
If your portfolio includes highly appreciated assets like stocks, bonds or an investment property, you may want to consider creating a charitable remainder trust. This type of trust allows you to make a substantial tax-exempt donation to a charity or charities while...
What is the difference between an LLC and a sole proprietorship?
When you are self-employed, you can choose to be a sole proprietor or create an LLC. Which option works best depends on your business needs. A Limited Liability Company (LLC) and sole proprietorship differ in their tax requirements, financial liability, and...
When should you update your will or estate plan?
Wills and estate plans exist to direct the division of someone's assets after they die. While planning ahead is great, it is also good practice to update your will or estate plan every few years or whenever you experience a significant life event. Here are a few...
Causes for being audited
Nobody wants to get audited. It is a frustrating process that drains time and requires effort. Worse, you are vulnerable to fines. If a criminal violation is discoverable, you may even wind up spending time behind bars. Over the past decade, the IRS has decreased the...
3 types of neighbor disputes that could require legal assistance
Disputes between neighbors are tricky. There simply is no avoiding the other party. Since your relationship with the owners of the properties adjacent to yours carries on, it is wise to resolve issues diplomatically. Hiring an attorney to help you navigate this...