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Last Will & Testament
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Last Will LAwyer in Tacoma

Protect Your Wishes & Your Family

Creating a last will is one of the simplest ways to protect the people and property that matter most to you. Many people in Tacoma put it off because it feels uncomfortable, but a clear will can spare your family confusion, conflict, and unnecessary expense later on.

At McCarthy Law Office, PLLC, we help individuals and families in the Greater Tacoma area put legally sound last wills in place under Washington law. We can explain your options in plain language, then turn your decisions into clear, written instructions that your loved ones and the court can follow.

Our firm brings nearly two decades of legal experience to estate planning, and clients have direct access to Attorney Conor McCarthy throughout the planning process. You are not treated like a file number, and you always know who is guiding you as you make important decisions about your last will and testament.

Take the first step toward resolving your case with a skilled last will attorney in Tacoma. Reach out or call (844) 224-5029 now to set up your consultation.

Why Work With Our Tacoma Firm

When you think about sharing details of your family, finances, and health, you want to know who is actually listening. At our office, you work directly with an attorney, not a rotating cast of staff. Clients speak with Attorney Conor McCarthy about their goals, concerns, and questions at every stage.

Over nearly twenty years, we have helped injured workers and their families throughout the Greater Tacoma area navigate difficult legal and bureaucratic systems. That background helps us understand how health issues, disability, and workers’ compensation benefits can affect long-term planning. We bring that same practical perspective to every will we draft.

We also focus on relationships, not one-time transactions. Many clients first come to us during a workers’ compensation matter, then return to prepare or update a last will when their circumstances change. We strive to understand your family dynamics, so your will reflects real life, not a template pulled from the internet.

Choosing a local attorney you can meet with in person also matters. Our last will lawyers are familiar with how estates are handled in our area, and we work to draft documents that are clear for both your loved ones and the court that may later review them.

What A Last Will Can Do For You

A will is more than a form with signatures. Under Washington law, your last will can control who receives your property, who is in charge of your estate, and who cares for any minor children if both parents are gone. Without those instructions, state law and the court typically decide these questions.

If you die without a valid will, Washington intestacy rules usually determine who inherits. That pattern might not match what you want, especially if you have a blended family, an unmarried partner, or people you would prefer to exclude. A clear will helps reduce arguments and delays during an already painful time.

Your will also needs to coordinate with the rest of your planning. Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts or life insurance often pass outside the will. We help you think through how these pieces fit together so that your last wishes are consistent and easier to follow.

With a thoughtfully prepared will, you can make decisions such as:

  • Who will serve as your personal representative and handle your estate
  • How your property, including your home and savings, will be divided
  • Who will care for minor children if parents cannot
  • Whether certain people receive specific items with sentimental value
  • Who should act as backups if your first choices are unable to serve

We take time to walk through these choices with you in a calm, organized way. Our goal is to help you leave clear instructions that reflect your values and reduce stress for the people you care about most.

Our Process To Create Your Will

One of the most common concerns we hear is, “I do not know where to start.” Our process is designed to make each step manageable. When you contact our office, we typically begin with a conversation about your goals, your family, and what prompted you to plan now.

During this initial consultation, we ask questions to understand your situation and answer the questions on your mind. We discuss topics such as who you trust to act as personal representative, what property you own, and any worries you have about family conflict or special circumstances. This meeting is a chance for you to get to know us and for us to outline options.

After we agree to move forward, we draft your will based on what you have shared. You review the draft, and we explain any legal terms in everyday language so you can decide whether changes are needed. Once you are comfortable, we arrange for proper signing and witnessing, in line with Washington requirements, so your document is set up to be honored later.

Many people also want powers of attorney or health care directives at the same time. When that is appropriate, we discuss how those documents and your will works together, so the people you trust are clearly authorized to act during your life and after your death.

To make our first meeting smoother, it helps to think about:

  • A list of your major assets, such as real estate, accounts, and insurance
  • The names of family members or others you may want to include
  • Who you trust to handle finances and legal details after you are gone
  • Any children or loved ones who may need extra financial protection

Throughout this process, you have direct access to Attorney McCarthy for questions and clarification. We respond promptly to calls and messages so you are not left wondering what comes next or whether you made the right choices.

Planning For Tacoma Families

A well-drafted will and last testament is not just a legal document. It is a practical tool that can make things easier for your family when they are grieving. For many estates connected to Tacoma, probate is typically handled through the Pierce County Superior Court probate division. Clear instructions in your will often help that process move more smoothly.

Because our firm also assists injured workers, we frequently meet clients whose planning must account for workers’ compensation benefits, disability income, or settlement funds. We help you think about how these resources fit into your overall estate and who should receive them when you are gone. Our goal is to help you provide support for your loved ones in a way that matches your values and the realities of your situation.

Some Tacoma families come to us when they buy a home or welcome a child. Others reach out after a health scare or injury reminds them that life can change quickly. In each case, we listen first, then tailor a plan that addresses their concerns, whether that is protecting minor children, avoiding disputes among adult children, or making sure a long-term partner is not left out.

We see a will as an act of care. By putting your wishes in writing now, you reduce the burden on your family later. They have guidance from you and a document that the court can follow, rather than being left to guess what you might have wanted.

Reach out to a last will lawyer in Tacoma for experienced legal support. Complete our online form to start the process promptly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to create my will?

Most wills can be completed in a few weeks, depending on how quickly decisions are made and documents are reviewed. We explain the timeline at our first meeting and keep you updated. Our goal is to move at a pace that is comfortable but does not let planning drift indefinitely.

Do I really need a lawyer for a simple will?

You are not required to hire a last will lawyer, but Washington law has specific rules for valid wills. A simple situation can become complicated if a form is filled out incorrectly. We help ensure your documents reflect your wishes, comply with state law, and work together with your other planning.

Will I work directly with Attorney McCarthy?

Yes. At our office, clients have direct access to Attorney Conor McCarthy. You meet with him to discuss your goals, review draft documents, and sign your will. Staff may assist with scheduling and logistics, but your legal questions and decisions are handled by your attorney.

What should I bring to our first meeting?

You do not need everything perfectly organized. It is helpful to bring a list of your major assets, basic information about family members, and any existing estate planning documents. We use this information to understand your situation and to suggest an approach that fits your goals.

Talk With Us About Your Last Will

Putting a last will in place is a practical step that can give you and your family peace of mind. Working with a last will attorney Tacoma resident can reach directly means your questions are answered, and your decisions are clearly reflected in your documents.

At McCarthy Law Office, PLLC, we bring nearly two decades of experience, a strong local focus, and a commitment to personal relationships. When you contact our office, we arrange a planning consultation to discuss your goals, explain your options, and outline a path forward that fits your life. You do not need to have everything figured out before you call.

If you have been putting this off, we encourage you to take the first step and talk with us. We will work with you to create a will that reflects your wishes and helps guide your family when it matters most.

Call (844) 224-5029 to schedule a consultation about your last will.

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Client Testimonials

We Treat Our Clients Like People, Not Numbers
    “I was really grateful for the way they walked me through that process”
    “They provided direction through the complexity of that situation”
    - Jess B.
    “He made my life less stressful, and a lot easier.”
    “Conor McCarthey did an amazing job! He made my life less stressful, and a lot easier. If you need a lawyer, he's the man!”
    - Mark M.
    “I am very grateful”
    “I had to find another lawyer to take on a probate case that had been already dragging on for about four years. Without a referral of any kind I tried calling in to a few offices, one of them being Conor’s.”
    - Brandon L.
    “Our family highly recommends Conor for estate planning expertise!”
    “Conor McCarthy recently drafted our estate planning documents. He also assisted my folks in updating their trust and related documents. Conor is friendly and easy to work with and his fees are very reasonable.”
    - Diane W.
    “We would definitely recommend McCarthy Law.”
    “We had a great experience with McCarthy Law. Conner was invaluable in guiding us through every step of the process and worked diligently researching or case. We would definitely recommend McCarthy Law.
    - Kevin C.
    “Highly recommend!!”
    “Nothing but excellent service from Conor and his staff at McCarthy Law. Very friendly, professional and knowledgeable in assisting myself in executing our families estate needs. Highly recommend!!
    - Michael P.
    “Very timely and nice group of people.”
    “McCarthy Law helped update our will this fall. Very timely and nice group of people.”
    - Jan N.
    “Conor was great to work with!”
    “Conor was great to work with! He listened to what I wanted and provided guidance without making me feel like I didn't know what I was doing. He communicated clearly, got things done right on schedule. I'll gladly work with him in the future if the need ari”
    - Julia E.
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