The Jonsson Law Firm, PLLC

Who We Are

20+

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

1000+

FAMILIES SERVED

100%

CLIENT FOCUSED

Seattle families trust The Jonsson Law Firm to guide them through complex estate planning decisions with clarity and compassion. Our experience in trusts, wills, and probate matters means you receive counsel tailored to Washington state law and your family's unique needs. We take the time to understand your goals and create a plan that protects what matters most.

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(206) 783-4100

Why Choose Us

Compassionate Estate Planning

We understand that estate planning involves deeply personal decisions about your family's future. Our approach combines legal expertise with genuine care, ensuring you feel heard and supported throughout the process. We take complex legal concepts and explain them in clear, straightforward language.

Washington State Expertise

Estate planning and probate laws vary significantly by state, and Washington has unique requirements. Our focused practice in Seattle means we stay current on all Washington state regulations, court procedures, and tax implications. This local knowledge helps us create plans that work effectively for your situation.

Comprehensive Asset Protection

We help clients protect their assets from unnecessary taxes, probate costs, and family disputes. Whether you need a simple will, complex trust structure, or probate administration, we craft solutions designed to preserve your wealth for future generations. Our goal is to give you peace of mind knowing your affairs are in order.

Practice Areas

Estate Planning

Our estate planning services help you create a comprehensive plan for your assets, healthcare decisions, and family's future. We draft wills, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and other essential documents tailored to your unique circumstances and Washington state law.

Trusts

Trust administration requires careful attention to legal requirements and beneficiary needs. We guide trustees through their fiduciary duties, help distribute assets properly, and ensure compliance with trust terms and state regulations throughout the administration process.

Probate

Probate can be complex and emotionally challenging for families dealing with the loss of a loved one. We help personal representatives navigate Washington probate court procedures, resolve creditor claims, and distribute estate assets efficiently while minimizing stress during a difficult time.

Meet the Attorney

Geir T. Jonsson

Founding Attorney

EDUCATION B.A., Yale University, 1994; J.D., University of California, Hastings College of the Law, 1998; and LL.M. (taxation), University of Washington, School of Law, 1999. PRACTICE Geir focuses his practice in estate planning and probate and trust administration, with significant experience in: drafting wills, including disclaimer trusts, marital trusts, family trusts, special needs trusts and guardianship provisions; planning for Washington and federal estate tax, and federal income tax; revocable living trusts; financial and health care durable powers of attorney; advanced directives; community property and cohabitation agreements; probate and trust administration; and limited liability company formation and maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need an estate plan if I don't have a large estate?

Yes, estate planning is important for families at all income levels. Even modest estates benefit from having a will, healthcare directive, and power of attorney in place. Without these documents, Washington state law determines who inherits your assets and who makes decisions if you become incapacitated, which may not align with your wishes. A basic estate plan also helps your family avoid costly and time-consuming probate proceedings.

What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will is a legal document that directs how your assets will be distributed after your death and must go through probate court. A trust, by contrast, is a legal entity that can hold and distribute your assets both during your lifetime and after death, often avoiding probate entirely. Trusts offer greater privacy, more control over distributions, and can provide tax benefits, but they require more setup and ongoing management than a simple will.

How long does the probate process take in Washington?

The probate timeline in Washington typically ranges from six months to over a year, depending on the estate's complexity, whether creditors file claims, and if any disputes arise among beneficiaries. Simple estates with few assets and no complications can sometimes be resolved in as little as four to six months. Working with an experienced probate attorney helps ensure the process moves as efficiently as possible while meeting all legal requirements.

Can I update my estate plan after it's been created?

Absolutely, and we encourage clients to review and update their estate plans regularly. Major life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, significant asset changes, or relocating to a different state are all good reasons to revisit your plan. We recommend reviewing your estate planning documents every three to five years to ensure they still reflect your wishes and comply with current Washington law.

What happens if someone dies without a will in Washington?

When someone dies without a will in Washington, their estate is distributed according to the state's intestacy laws. Generally, assets pass to the closest surviving relatives in a predetermined order: spouse and children first, then parents, siblings, and more distant relatives. This process still requires probate court involvement and may not reflect what the deceased would have wanted. Having a will ensures your wishes are honored and can simplify the process for your loved ones.

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