Legal Question in Elder Law in Washington

Re: death of a parent

First of all, please accept my condolences on your loss.

What papers get submitted depends on whether your parent had a will, or did not have a will.

If there is a will, then it depends on whether your parent had real property or not, and whether they had more than $60K in other (non real property) assets.

WA has a short form probate action when the decedent has less than $60K in non real property assets. You'll need a copy of the death certificate to be filed with the court.

But you cannot transfer real property without opening a probate.

WA's probate statues make probate simple and keep the cost down, whether there is a will or not.

You will want to get recommenations for a local lawyer who can advise you, based upon your circumstances. Many lawyers will offer a short consult without charging you for it. If you don't know any lawyers, call your local Bar association and ask.

Hope this helps.