Estate Planning

Planning for the future is one of the most important gifts you can give to your family. At Senescu & Babich PLLC we help individuals and families throughout Clark County and Southwest Washington create thoughtful estate plans designed to protect loved ones, preserve personal wishes, and provide peace of mind.

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy. Every adult can benefit from having legal documents in place that clearly outline financial decisions, medical wishes, and how assets should be handled in the event of illness, incapacity, or death. Whether you are starting a family, approaching retirement, caring for aging parents, or simply wanting to make sure your affairs are organized, the compassionate attorneys at Senescu & Babich, PLLC are here to help guide you through the process with care and clarity.

What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is the process of preparing legal documents and instructions that help protect you and your family during your lifetime and after your passing. A well-designed estate plan helps ensure your wishes are honored while reducing stress and confusion for loved ones.

For many families with non-taxable estates, estate planning focuses on practical protection and organization rather than complex tax strategies. Senescu & Babich, PLLC works closely with clients to create customized plans that fit their unique family situations, goals, and concerns.

Common estate planning documents include:

• Wills 
• Powers of Attorney 
• Health Care Directives (Living Wills) 
• Advance Directives 
• Guardianship designations for minor children 
• Asset distribution instructions 
• End-of-life planning documents 

Every family is different, which is why personalized legal guidance is so important.

Estate Planning for Non-Taxable Estates

Most families in Washington do not have taxable estates, but that does not mean estate planning is unnecessary.  In fact, even modest estates benefit greatly from having legally valid planning documents in place.

At Senescu & Babich, PLLC we help individuals and families create practical estate plans designed to:

• Avoid unnecessary court complications 
• Clarify personal wishes 
• Protect loved ones 
• Reduce family conflict 
• Prepare for medical emergencies 
• Organize financial affairs 
• Provide direction during difficult times 

Without an estate plan, Washington law determines how assets are distributed and who may make important decisions on your behalf. Having a plan in place allows you to maintain control over these important choices.

Wills

A Last Will and Testament is one of the foundational documents in an estate plan. A Will allows you to specify how your assets should be distributed after your passing and who should handle your estate administration.  

A properly drafted Will can help:

• Name beneficiaries 
• Identify personal representatives (executors) 
• Designate guardians for minor children 
• Clarify wishes regarding personal property 
• Simplify estate administration 
• Reduce confusion among family members 

Without a valid Will, your estate may be distributed according to the law of intestate succession rather than your personal wishes.

The attorneys at Senescu & Babich, PLLC take time to explain your options in plain, understandable language so you feel confident in your decisions.

Powers of Attorney

Life can change unexpectedly. A Durable Power of Attorney allows you to appoint someone you trust to manage medical, financial and legal matters if you become unable to do so yourself.

This important document may allow your chosen representative to:

• Make medical and care decisions
• Pay bills 
• Access bank accounts 
• Manage investments 
• Handle real estate matters 
• Sign legal documents 
• Coordinate financial affairs 

Without a Power of Attorney, family members may need to petition the court for authority to manage your affairs, which can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive.

Senescu & Babich, PLLC helps clients create carefully tailored Powers of Attorney that reflect their wishes and comfort level.

Health Care Directives (Living Wills)

A Health Care Directive, often called a Living Will, outlines your medical treatment preferences if you become unable to communicate your wishes.

This document helps guide loved ones and medical providers regarding:

• Life-sustaining treatment 
• Artificial nutrition and hydration 
• End-of-life care and decisions
• Comfort care preferences 

Having these conversations and documents in place can provide tremendous peace of mind for both you and your family during emotionally difficult situations.

At Senescu & Babich, PLLC we approach these sensitive discussions with compassion, patience, and understanding.

Why Estate Planning Matters

Many people delay estate planning because they believe they are too young, do not own enough assets, or simply do not know where to begin. Unfortunately, unexpected illness or accidents can happen at any age.

Creating an estate plan now can help protect your loved ones later.

Benefits of estate planning include:

Protecting Your Family

An estate plan helps provide guidance and support for family members during difficult times.

Avoiding Unnecessary Stress

Clear legal documents help reduce uncertainty, confusion, and disagreements among family members.

Planning for Incapacity

Estate planning is not only about what happens after death. It also prepares for situations where you may need assistance during your lifetime.

Maintaining Control

Estate planning allows you to make your own decisions rather than leaving them to the courts or state law.

Peace of Mind

Many clients feel a tremendous sense of relief once their estate planning documents are completed.

A Compassionate Approach to Estate Planning

At Senescu & Babich PLLC we understand that estate planning can feel overwhelming or emotional. Our attorneys strive to make the process approachable and comfortable.

We believe estate planning conversations should be:

• Easy to understand 
• Personalized 
• Respectful 
• Compassionate 
• Focused on your goals 
• Affordable

Our team takes time to listen carefully to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain legal concepts in straightforward language.

We are proud to serve families and communities throughout Clark County and Southwest Washington.

When Should You Update Your Estate Plan?

Estate plans should be reviewed periodically, especially after major life events such as:

• Marriage 
• Divorce 
• Birth of children or grandchildren 
• Retirement 
• Significant financial changes 
• Death of a loved one 
• Relocation to another state 

Keeping your documents current helps ensure they continue to reflect your wishes and comply with current Washington law.

Estate Planning FAQs

Do I need an estate plan if I do not have a large estate?

Yes. Estate planning is important for individuals and families of all income levels. Even modest estates benefit from having Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Health Care Directives in place.

What happens if I die without a Will in Washington?

If you pass away without a valid Will, Washington law determines how your assets are distributed, which may not match your wishes.

What is the difference between a Will and a Living Will?

A Will outlines how your assets are distributed after death. A Living Will (also known as a Health Care Directive) addresses end-of-life medical treatment decisions if you cannot communicate your wishes.

How often should I review my estate plan?

It is generally recommended to review your estate plan every few years or after major life changes.

Can Senescu & Babich, PLLC help with Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives?

Yes. Our attorneys regularly assist clients with comprehensive estate planning documents, including Durable Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives.

Contact Senescu & Babich, PLLC for Estate Planning Services

Creating an estate plan is an important step toward protecting your family, your wishes, and your future. The experienced attorneys at Senescu & Babich, PLLC are here to help make the process clear, compassionate, and manageable.

If you are looking for an estate planning attorney in Clark County or surrounding Southwest Washington communities, contact Senescu & Babich, PLLC today to schedule a consultation.

Your future deserves thoughtful planning — and your loved ones deserve the peace of mind that comes with it.