Recent News

Waterproofing Woes: Washington Law Impacting Water Leaks in New Homes

Washington State Real Estate Lawyer Ryan G. Foltz | 10/30/2024
In Washington’s damp climate, properly constructed waterproofing systems are essential in new homes to prevent leaks, rot, and structural damage. Over time, water intrusion leads to extensive damage to interior finishes and can compromise the structural integrity of the home.  Hidden or latent defects in construction are not immediately apparent. These unknown defects can cause… Read More

Uniform Custodial Trust Act: A Bill Proposed for Introduction to the Washington State Legislature.

The Lawyers at Beresford Booth | 10/30/2024
One of the primary goals of estate planning is to establish protective mechanisms for beneficiaries with varying needs. For instance, a young couple with children may opt for a trust and appoint a reliable trustee to manage assets until the children reach an age where they can responsibly handle their own finances. Alternatively, some individuals… Read More

5 Reasons to Have a Will. Avoiding Probate Isn’t One of Them

Washington State Estate Planning and Probate Lawyer Sherry Bosse Lueders | 10/29/2024
I was standing in a light drizzle on the sidelines of my son’s soccer game, chatting with another parent, when she mentioned that she’d done an overwhelming amount of adulting in the past week, including signing her Will. That is great. Everyone should have a Will, but especially parents of young kids. However, she said… Read More

Beresford Booth is sponsoring Dawson Place’s Hurt to Hope Luncheon Nov 7, 2024

The Lawyers at Beresford Booth | 10/28/2024
The lawyers and staff at Beresford Booth are fortunate to have the continued opportunity to be involved with many incredible organizations throughout the Pacific Northwest. This November 7, 2024, Beresford Booth is sponsoring Dawson Place’s Hurt to Hope Luncheon and all are invited to attend from 11:30-1 PM at the Edward Hansen Conference Center in the… Read More

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Mackenzie O. Bretz | 10/25/2024
Family law attorneys are acutely aware of the cycle of violence and its detrimental impact on children and families. A significant part of our role is to amplify the voices of victims and to develop post-divorce solutions that prioritize their safety and that of their children. In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I want… Read More

Hazards in the Pumpkin Patch: Legal Issues in Agritourism

Washington State Litigation Lawyer J Patrick Diener | 10/25/2024
You may have noticed that more and more people include agritourism as a part of their entertainment.  This is especially true in autumn, when pumpkin patches decorate the countryside with food, games and even haunted attractions.  But agritourism is not all hot cider and smiles; indeed, it comes with its share of risks. Agritourism is… Read More

The Impact of the National Association of Realtors Settlement Agreement

Washington State Real Estate Lawyer Babak Shamsi | 10/22/2024
When selling a home, the selling party will typically pay a 5-6% commission to the listing agent, who then pays a negotiated portion of that commission (often, but not always, half) to the buyer’s agent. Technically, the commissions are negotiable, but the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a powerful trade association boasting over 1.5 million… Read More

Can I Subdivide Without The Bureaucracy?  Consider Testamentary Subdivision

Washington State Litigation Lawyer Andrew M. McKenzie | 10/22/2024
Subdivision of property in Washington State is, generally speaking, highly regulated, and has been for many decades.  For Many owners of potentially subdividable land find themselves deterred from going through the process because of how onerous it is.  Subdivision can cost a lot and take a while.  Both state and local governments want to protect… Read More