The Importance of Power of Attorney: Who Should You Choose and Why?
A power of attorney (POA) is one of the most important legal tools you can include in your estate plan—yet it’s often overlooked until it’s too late. In Washington State, having a strong and properly executed POA can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your finances, your health care choices, and your peace of mind.
At Pettis Webber Pacific, we often tell our clients that a POA is not just a legal form—it’s a plan for continuity, stability, and trust. Here’s what you need to know.
The Executor’s Guide: What to Expect When Settling a Loved One’s Estate
Being named the executor (also called a personal representative) of someone’s estate is both an honor and a serious responsibility. Whether you were appointed in a will or are stepping into the role through the probate court process, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. There’s a lot to do—and much of it happens during a time of grief.
At Pettis Webber Pacific, we help personal representatives across Washington State, and even throughout the US, navigate the Washington estate settlement process with clarity and confidence. This guide is designed to give you a clear understanding of what to expect and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Leaving a Legacy: How to Plan Beyond Money and Create a Lasting Impact
When most people think about estate planning, they focus on who will inherit their money, property, or business. But true legacy planning goes deeper. It’s not just about transferring wealth—it’s about passing on your values, your vision, and the story of your life.
At Pettis Webber Pacific, we believe the most meaningful estate plans are the ones that reflect your whole legacy, not just your financial assets. Here’s how you can plan beyond money and create a lasting impact on the people you care about most.
Trust Funding 101: The Step Most People Forget (That Can Cost Their Family Thousands)
Creating a trust is one of the most powerful tools in estate planning—but it’s only the first step. One critical step that many people overlook is funding the trust. Without properly funding your trust, your carefully written documents may not protect your assets or spare your loved ones from probate, legal fees, and unnecessary stress.
At Pettis Webber Pacific, we’ve seen it time and again: a well-written trust that never fulfills its potential—simply because it wasn’t funded. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your trust actually works when it matters most.
