Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Washington

Re: Who's responsible for my dedts at my death?

I obviously agree with everything stated by Ms. Powell. I would only add that you should make sure you don't hold any joint accounts with your children (bank, credit card, etc.) to ensure that they are free from creditor concerns.

Re: Who's responsible for my dedts at my death?

I want you to make me a promise. You are deeply depressed (in case you hadn't noticed). This isn't a medical advice board, but as one human to another please get on the phone and call somebody to cheer you up. If there is no one call the crisis line.

In the meantime, if the auto accident was not your fault, please consider contacting a personal injury attorney who can help you recover some $ - whether from your insurance carrier or the carrier of the person responsible. This is called a 'chose in action'. It is possible somebody owes you money. It will cost you nothing to find out. Pick somebody out of the phone book or call the Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association Lawyer Referral line and ask for a referral. I don't do car accident cases, but lots of people do.

To answer your other question: Children are not responsible for the debts of their parents. Your estate is responsible. If your estate is not extensive, the answer to the creditors is , "Oh, well." They cannot come after your kids for your bills. I promise.

Your arrangement with Visa is not your children's problem.

However, please pay attention. Don't think that opting out is going to be kinder to your kids because it is not. Don't go there. If you are that depressed get help, ok?

Sometimes it seems as though everything is futile but it is not. What you are thinking about doing is pretty selfish and WILL hurt your kids. Don't go there.

The counsel you need *might* have a tinge of legal advice, but what you really need is some help with the depression. I really wish you the best. It'll be OK if you hang in there.

Powell