Washington probate · King County practice

A guide to probate in Washington.

Free information, forms, and practical guidance for families, personal representatives, and lawyers navigating probate.

Start here
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01

Getting Started

New to probate? Understand the process and the first questions to consider.

Read the introduction02

Forms & Documents

Find sample petitions, orders, notices, and other probate documents.

Find probate documents03

Small Estates

Looking for another way to collect estate assets? Start with the affidavit guide.

Explore small estates

The guide

Find the information you need.

Browse the topics below.

Starting an estate

Getting StartedUnderstand probate and consider where to begin.Initial HearingPrepare for appointment by the court.Probate Forms & DocumentsFind the sample documents used throughout a probate.Small EstatesExplore the small estate affidavit process.Nonprobate AssetsLearn about assets that pass outside probate.GlossaryMake sense of unfamiliar probate terms.

Managing an estate

NoticesReview notices to heirs, beneficiaries, and others.CreditorsRead about creditor claims and notice requirements.InventoryIdentify, gather, and account for estate assets.TaxesExplore the tax issues that arise in estate administration.Closing the ProbatePrepare to distribute the estate and finish the probate.

Tricky issues

No WillStarting a probate when the person did not leave a will.Not Named in WillAppointment when you are not the nominated representative.Admitting Copy of WillWhat to consider when the original will is missing.No Self-Proving WillAddressing a will without a self-proving affidavit.Minor BeneficiariesIssues to consider when a beneficiary is a child.Insolvent EstateWhen estate debts may exceed the available assets.Unmarried CouplesEstate issues affecting unmarried partners.FirearmsConsiderations when an estate includes firearms.

Dear Readers,

I created KingCountyProbates.com to help people understand Washington probate and how the process works in King County.

The site brings together forms, guidance through the steps, and discussions of issues that can make an estate less straightforward. Whether you are handling a family member’s estate or working in the legal profession, I hope you find it useful.

Most estates follow a fairly understandable path. These resources are here to help you find your way through it.

Chad HornerAttorney at Law
chad@graunke-ayoub.com