Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Washington

Re: wills

In a word, no. The issue is not notartization, it's whether or not the will is properly witnessed. The signatures should be notarized, but the affidavits of the witnesses are more critical, and if you don't do it right the will could be invalid.

Also, if you did not have an attorney at least review the will, you could end up not transferring your assets correctly and thus not implement your intent.

Especially if you wanted to do something different, that could wind up not happening.

Probate in WA is very simple, and it is even easier if there is a proper will. If you are concerned that it is going to cost you a fortune to have an attorney set up your estate plan, contact the County Bar in Walla Walla (I recognize your zip code) and ask for a referral and tell the referral person that you don't have unlimited funds with which to do this.

In Pierce County, we have a referral program where a person can have a simple will drawn up for $10.00. I don't know for sure, but there is no reason why there is not an equivalent program there.

You also need a Durable Power of Attorney and may need a health care directive.

I have seen wills that are available in books or in software, but they don't always track Washington law, and that's a problem.

If you want to contact me off line I can help you further.

Elizabeth Powell