Elder Law Legal Resources
Power of Attorney in Washington State: What You Need to Know
Deciding to set up an estate plan can be difficult, however, peace of mind can be priceless. An Estate planning package can include a will & trust that appoints guardians for your children, estate administrators, charitable giving, and asset protection. Making these important decisions if often less onerous when you work with skilled and compassionate elder law lawyers who understand the emotional complexity inherent to these decisions and the applicable Washington State laws.We all face uncertainty; it’s the nature of living. However, the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on family and financial security has illuminated the urgent need to consider estate planning ...
Everything You Need to Know About Estate Planning in Idaho
Death, while inevitable, is not something most people enjoy thinking about. That is why so many people avoid creating an estate plan. But ignoring the reality of life and death does not make either go away – it just complicates matters. Regardless of one’s current age or health status, an estate plan is necessary for any person who has dependents, owns property, has savings or investments, or owns a business. A well-crafted estate plan protects your heirs and loved ones in the event of a crisis or death. It can also protect your legacy to ensure that your wishes ...
Total Guide to Estate Planning in Washington State
America’s nickname is The Land of Opportunity, a place where anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve their goals, including amassing material wealth – money, real estate, personal property and any other assets. But what happens to those assets – your estate – when you pass away? Talking about this topic can be difficult, but important. However, in order to protect your legacy and make sure your wishes are fulfilled, planning what happens after you’re gone is crucial. What does “Estate Planning” mean? Estate planning is establishing a formal, legal plan in the event of a crisis, incapacity, or death. ...
5 (Costly) Medicaid Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, “Someone turning age 65 today has almost a 70 percent chance of needing some type of long-term care services and supports in their remaining years.” The Medicaid program, although challenging to navigate, can provide some relief for seniors and their families when in need of long-term care. Unlike Medicare (which does not cover long-term care), Medicaid is a means-tested program. In other words, you can only possess a small amount of money or property, have a low income, or both qualify. Seniors often wish to preserve their money out ...
Everything You Need To Know About Wills and Trusts in Washington
Drafting and executing Wills and Trusts can be a complicated and confusing process. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions covering everything you need to know about wills and trusts in Washington state: What Are Wills and Trusts in Washington? Many may think these are similar, but there are notable differences between the two and when trying to decide which type you need for a complete Estate Plan, rely on Evergreen Elder Law to help: Wills: Take effect as soon as your pass away. A Will details how your estate is divided among those you name in ...
How To Avoid Probate in Washington State
Estate planning can sometimes feel like putting together a jigsaw puzzle. Picture each piece of the estate planning puzzle as part of an overall estate plan. You learn the names of the individual pieces – one called “living trust,” another “last will and testament,” and power of attorney. Your estate may also go through “probate”. To avoid probate, there are certain steps you must take. If you are interested in learning how to avoid probate in Washington, you’re in the right place. What is Probate in the State of Washington? First, let’s talk about probate and what it means. Simply ...
Estate Planning 2021: What’s In Store?
By Holland McBurns, Managing Partner, Evergreen Elder Law Many of my clients are wondering what 2021 has in store for them with the changing of the guard at the White House. It’s no surprise that President Joe Biden is planning on making changes to the tax code. Could this impact your estate, gift taxes, and income taxes? Possibly. From what I have been reading, planning concerns are for very wealthy individuals and couples – the Top 1%. Those who are worth less than, let’s say $5 million, may not have to worry as much. But that does not mean ...
Fame, Fortune & Dying Without a Will
I was saddened to hear of the recent loss of Tony Hsieh, retired CEO of Zappos. Under Mr. Hsieh’s leadership, Zappos went from $1.6M in revenue in 2000 to $1B in revenue in 2009. It brought him fame and fortune. That fortune being $850M at the time of his death. What really struck me as I read the news about him was the comment that Tony Hsieh passed away without having a will in place. As any attorney that practices Elder Law, we know this happens frequently. People often die without a will in place, though, not usually at ...
Up and Personal with Telelaw
By Holland McBurns, Managing Partner, Evergreen Elder Law Remember not so long ago when “up and personal” meant a hug or handshake? When getting together didn’t require a mask? When sitting in my office care meant we could sit at a table together and not worry about our health and passing germs? I miss seeing my clients. I miss having them come into my office and getting to know them on a personal level. I’m saddened they are leery of leaving their homes due to a virus that they can’t see or feel. But I’m heartened that we now have ...
Expanding Medicaid During a Pandemic
By Holland McBurns, Managing Partner, Evergreen Elder Law I wouldn't have thought that Oklahoma would be the first state to vote on expanding Medicaid since the COVID-19 pandemic began. I congratulate the Oklahomans! There are currently 38 states that had previously expanded Medicaid, with my home state of Washington having adopted and implemented the expansion in 2014. What is Medicaid? As many of you already know, my passion has always been to give back to my community. Since 2000 when I opened Evergreen Elder Law in Spokane, WA, one area that we have specialized in is Medicaid, also known as, ...
Testimonials
I did some research and exploration and came upon the offices of Evergreen Elder Law. From the moment I spoke with the receptionist I felt respected, valued and regarded as an important client. I made an appointment for March 20, 2018. When I presented to their offices I spoke with someone who was sympathetic for my loss, confident that their offices could help and exuded competence. I was heartened to note that they were recognized as “Client Choice “Estate Law Office” for 2016.” And my experience with their offices made me a believer.
When my mother retired it became apparent we as a family needed help, Holland Mcburns was recommended by an acquaintance of the family. She was professional and very thorough and informative. I felt she was very up to date on the current opportunities that would best benefit my elderly mother, and make her retirement years worry free. After working with Mrs Mcburns, it was apparent that many people would benefit from her knowledge and dedication. I highly recommend her, and look forward to working with her on my estate planning.
Holland is very attentive and detail oriented. I felt well cared for, she returned calls promptly, and was always very sensitive to my needs. Holland gave me very good advice. She is very ethical and has legal services personalized to your needs.
Holland is a great listener and lawyer. When we came to her with our needs, she thoughtfully listened, was helpful with all our questions, and then explained our options. Her sense of humor helped us through some long waits with the system. In the end, we ended up with a surprisingly favorable settlement and a good friend in the courts.
Holland is truly one of the most sincere and professional attorneys I have come to know and over many years in the legal field. Her work is innovative in the complex area of estate planning and she strives to know the latest legal strategies to protect and represent her clients. Holland is dedicated to satisfying her clients’ needs and does it in a kind manner. She is a wonderful communicator both with her clients and with her colleagues. I highly recommend her to anyone in need of legal services.
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HOLLAND
MANAGING PARTNER
FELISHA
FIRM ADMINISTRATOR
ANNA
ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
KEN
ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
TESSA
FRONT OFFICE MANAGER
CONOR
CLIENT COORDINATOR
LAUREN
MARKETING ASSISTANT
RONI
LEGAL ASSISTANT
CARLA
CLIENT RELATIONS EXECUTIVE
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CLIENT RELATIONS EXECUTIVE
KATE
ADMINISTRATIVE & EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
The Evergreen Elder Law Team
Evergreen Elder Law is committed to helping you create comprehensive legal, financial, and physical security for you and your loved ones. Serving the Spokane, Tri Cities and Coeur d’Alene regions, we have the knowledge, compassion and professionalism to guide you in planning for the future, giving you peace of mind as you or a loved one makes important decisions for your family and future.
Let us provide you with a free 60-minute consultation. We are available throughout the week by phone and e-mail. Contact us now to set up the initial consultation, and we will make meeting with us easy. We welcome the opportunity to meet with you to come up with the best plan to meet your needs. We are available in-person or via tele-conference.