For families affected by domestic violence, the challenges of the family law process – which can be overwhelming even in the average case – can seem insurmountable. Before the legal process even begins, a domestic violence victim leaving an abusive situation is often dealing with being afraid for his or her safety, being afraid for […]
What’s Love Got to Do with It?
Separate and Community Property Considerations for Personal and Estate Planning What’s yours, what’s mine, and what’s ours? In Washington State, it depends. Property interests become blurred once two people enter into a committed intimate relationship (aka “CIR”) or get married. Our laws provide guidelines that determine what is separate property and what is community property. […]
What is the “Dead Man’s Statute” and Why You Should Create an Estate Plan
You might think it is enough to tell your loved ones what you would like them to inherit from you, but your statements alone are not enough, and here is why: The Dead Man’s Statute, RCW 5.60.030, is designed to prevent interested parties from testifying against the decedent’s estate about interactions they had with the […]
Tipping in Washington State: FAQ for the Employer and Employee
I frequently receive questions about tipping from small business or restaurant owners and employees. The purpose of this article is to provide initial answers to a couple of common questions. As always, this is not intended to be legal advice and context is everything. If you have questions specific to your situation you should consult with […]
Guardianship Pt. 2: How to Start a Guardianship
This is part two of a series on guardianship. The introduction to the series can be viewed here. How is a guardianship started? Anyone who is interested in the well-being of an alleged incapacitated person’s (AIP) can petition the court for the appointment of a guardian of the person and/or estate. A guardianship petition contains allegations […]
Guardianship Pt. 1: An Introduction to Guardianship
Clients often come to Reed Longyear Malnati & Ahrens, PLLC with questions about guardianship and what it means. While a guardianship proceeding can be stressful and complicated, it can be mitigated with the help of an experienced guardianship attorney, as well as taking a proactive approach to gain an understanding of the process and the […]
Is Your Non-Compete Agreement Enforceable?
In Washington State, Non-Compete Agreements (NCAs) are enforceable, but the Courts often frown upon them. Lately I have received an increase in inquiries regarding the enforceability of NCAs. These calls come from a variety of sources: individuals leaving a position for greener-pastures; concerned business owners dealing with a messy separation; and former employees opening their […]