Personal Planning

The laws governing estates and trusts have become increasingly complex. One reason is recent major changes in the estate tax law, which affect planning at both the state and federal levels. More changes lie ahead. Now more than ever, an individual's estate must be carefully planned to ensure that his or her wishes are fulfilled.

Estate Planning

Perkins Coie’s Personal Planning group works primarily with individuals, helping them define and meet their estate planning, family and related needs. Measured by size and depth of experience, our group is the most extensive of its kind in the Northwest. Five of our attorneys have been elected Fellows of the prestigious American College of Trust and Estate Counsel. We represent residents of the United States as well as Americans and foreign nationals residing in China, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Korea and the Philippines. Many clients have diverse property interests and come to us for advice on transactions in multiple states or foreign countries.

Planning for Entrepreneurs & Executives

We provide specialized estate planning for owners of closely held businesses, senior officers of public companies and entrepreneurs. The planning usually involves managing financial resources through strategic use of trusts, gifts, sales and other income and wealth-transfer devices. These devices implement family and philanthropic goals while minimizing income, gift and estate taxes. The probate or trust administration of our clients’ estates, including the preparation of necessary tax returns, facilitates the implementation of their lifetime planning.

Fiduciary & Investment Services

We can also provide services as executor and trustee through Perkins Coie's Fiduciary & Investment Services. As one of the few firms in the country to offer in-house fiduciary and investment services, we provide clients with the opportunity to coordinate their legal, estate planning, trust and investment management needs.

Additional Services

We also advise on succession plans, planned giving programs, charitable trusts and private foundations. When necessary, we work closely with our national Litigation practice on a full spectrum of trust and estate litigation on behalf of financial institutions, individual trustees or personal representatives and individual beneficiaries.