Estate Planning & Administration

The Stokes Lawrence Estate Planning & Administration group includes some of the most qualified attorneys you’ll find in this field. Yet it’s our educational approach that distinguishes us from other firms. We’re able to simplify complex concepts and patiently guide you through what can be both a technical and an emotional process.

Individuals and families trust us with their estate planning needs. We help develop core estate planning documents, such as a will, power of attorney and health directive.  In addition, we can assist with integrating other issues into your overall estate plan, such as the sale of a business, charitable giving, lifetime gifting, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, or long-term care.

We also assist individuals and professionals serving as personal representatives, executors and trustees with the probate process and the administration of various types of trusts. We help with the filing of court documents, gathering and valuing of assets, preparation of various tax returns, and compliance with fiduciary duties.

If disputes arise, our group works closely with our Trust & Estate Litigation practice to provide a range of trust and estate dispute resolution options.

What to Expect

We begin working with you by first getting acquainted. We ask basic questions to determine your specific needs and the best way for us to assist you. Whatever your needs may be, together we prioritize and develop a comprehensive plan tailored for your unique situation.

We also strive to give you options. We will match the appropriate vehicle or strategy to your objectives.  For each planning technique or each step of an administration, we offer an explanation of benefits and drawbacks, educating you about the law and compliance requirements. We help you compare and contrast the options so you clearly understand the intended outcome. 

Industry Leadership 

Our Estate Planning & Administration group comprises highly skilled lawyers who are widely recognized as preeminent advisors in their field. Our lawyers have the expertise and experience to counsel clients in need of sophisticated estate planning services. Our founding member, Doug Lawrence, established the rigor of the department by playing an active role in drafting and passing trust and estate legislation, including the Trust Act of 1984 and the 1999 Trust and Estate Dispute Resolution Act (TEDRA).

Apart from active engagement with the Washington State Bar Association and other community organizations, our team of attorneys frequently provides educational presentations and articles for other legal and high-net-worth planning professionals. Our group is committed to education and excellence.