Managing wealth is more than just a legal or tax issue—it’s a deeply personal process that can challenge even the strongest families. At Ryan Swanson, our estate planning attorneys bring not only significant legal experience but also a compassionate approach to matters of estate planning, probate, estate and trust administration, gift planning, charitable planning, business succession planning, and disputes. We recognize the profound impact these issues can have on individuals and families and strive to provide solutions that address the whole picture.
Thoughtful estate planning serves multiple essential purposes: protecting your family, ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, minimizing or eliminating estate taxes upon your passing, and ensuring trusted people are acting in fiduciary roles. Our team offers a comprehensive range of estate planning services tailored to federal and state laws, including:
We work with estates of all sizes, customizing a plan to fit our clients’ needs.
Effective succession planning is key to preserving family businesses and wealth for future generations. Our team advises clients on transferring business ownership to family members, management groups, or third-party purchasers in a tax-efficient manner. By focusing on long-term goals, we help ensure a smooth transition and continued success for the businesses and families we serve.
Administering an estate can be a daunting process, but our team is here to simplify it. Our paralegals and attorneys assist Personal Representatives (Executors) and Trustees in fulfilling their responsibilities efficiently and effectively. Our services include:
Our attorneys also have significant experience representing individual and professional fiduciaries in both trust administration and litigation. Whether acting as plaintiff or defendant, we provide knowledgeable counsel and strong advocacy.
Guardianship or conservatorship issues may arise as a result of incapacity. Our team provides skilled advocacy in these cases to protect the rights and interests of all involved. We represent both guardians/conservators and those challenging guardianships/conservatorships, ensuring fair and effective resolutions that prioritize the well-being of individuals and their families.
The death of a loved one can, unfortunately, lead to disputes over Wills or trusts. These conflicts can be emotionally and financially taxing. Our team has extensive experience representing estates, heirs, and fiduciaries in these sensitive matters. We work diligently to resolve disputes efficiently while protecting the rights and legacies of those involved.
Washington’s capital gains tax now adds 2.9% on long-term gains over $1 million, totaling 9.9%. Estate tax exemption rises to $3 million for deaths on or after July 1, 2025, with rates from 10%–35% and annual inflation adjustments starting in 2026. Spousal portability and a gift tax are still not available, so high-net-worth individuals should review their tax and estate planning strategies carefully.
Learn more in our article, “Washington Enacts Changes to Capital Gains and Estate Tax Laws“.
Estate planning helps ensure your family is cared for if you become incapacitated or pass away. Key steps include creating a Will, durable power of attorney, and health care directive; naming guardians for minor children; selecting trustworthy personal representatives and trustees; and reviewing asset titling and beneficiary designations. Business owners should consider succession planning, and charitable giving can reduce estate and income taxes. Regularly reviewing and updating your estate plan is critical as your family, finances, or laws change.
Learn more in our article, “Taking Care of Your Family with Estate Planning“.
Even while staying at home, you can take meaningful steps to protect your family and assets through estate planning. Start by finding and organizing important documents like your Will, trust, power of attorney, and health care directives, and share their locations with family or caregivers. Review beneficiary designations and account titling to ensure they match your estate plan. Update named fiduciaries—family, friends, or professionals—to make sure they are still appropriate for administering your estate or trusts. Finally, take advantage of current planning opportunities, such as low interest rates for gifting or succession strategies.
Learn more in our article, “4 Ways to Organize Your Estate Plan from Home“.
You can easily add charitable giving by updating beneficiary designations, amending your Will or trust, supporting a capital campaign, creating a charitable remainder trust, or forming a foundation. These simple steps help align your estate plan with your philanthropic goals.
Learn more in our article, “5 Easiest Ways to Update Your Estate Plan to Incorporate Charitable Giving“.
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