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A sole proprietorship is a type of business structure where a person, referred to as a sole proprietor, is the sole owner of the business. While the sole proprietorship may have a business name, there is usually no legal distinction between the sole proprietor and his/her business. There are definitely several advantages associated with this type of business arrangement, but there are also...

The Independent Contractor Protection Ordinance (ICPO) is a new Seattle ordinance that is set to go into effect on September 1, 2022. The new law is designed to protect independent contractors in terms of both payment and information surrounding their conditions of work. Since our firm has already screened several calls regarding the ICPO, we provide the following details. Definition of...

The quick answer is that the state will decide who gets your assets via the process of “intestate succession.” In general, assets are transferred to your closest surviving relatives. The most likely recipients are your spouse, your children, your parents, or your siblings. If you currently don’t have a will, you should contact a skilled estate planning attorney now. Who Gets What When There Is...

In short, a partnership agreement is a legal document that directs how a partnership will operate. The document helps ensure business success in that it allows you to run your business in the manner in which you want to. In its absence, your partnership’s operations could be governed by your state’s partnership laws. Please contact the McWilliams Law Group now and get the skilled business...

While the vast majority of us should have an updated estate plan, many seniors simply refuse to create one or ignore the thought of creating one. Reasons for these actions could come from a fear of death and worries about the expenses and anxiety involved. If your parents are reluctant to visit an estate planning attorney, you should try to gently intervene. The expenses associated with...

If you’re facing a divorce, you know that it can cause stress, anxiety, and frustration. The last thing you may want while going through this process is something else on your plate to deal with. But you should take some time to review your estate plan. Ignoring it during this pivotal time can result in losing control over your assets and legacy. 1. Update Your Will Most married people chose...

Most people are surprised to learn that a living will is a distinct and separate document from a healthcare power of attorney. But there are important differences between the two and one cannot act as a substitute for the other when it comes to your estate plan. Both documents are necessary for complete medical protection in the case you suffer a serious medical condition that leaves you...

An S corporation is a specific type of business entity. It is sometimes referred to as an “S-Corp” or an “S Subchapter.” The entity is usually associated with smaller businesses (typically those having less than 100 shareholders). The main feature of an S corporation is that it can pass income directly to shareholders without having to pay federal corporate taxes. What are the Requirements for...

An Executor, or currently referred to as a Personal Representative, is a person who handles someone else’s estate if that party dies with a Will. Naming an executor/personal representative when making your estate plan is a very important decision that should never be overlooked. To help guide your decision, let’s consider some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic. What Exactly...

There is a new law in Washington that affects the use of nondisclosure and nondisparagement provisions in employment contracts. The law is known as the “Silenced No More Act” and it was signed into effect by Washington Governor Jay Inslee on March 24, 2022. Let us take a look at some of the most common asked questions regarding the new law and its mandates. It is critical for Washington...