[WSBAPT] Original Wills

[Tom White]

Thank you, Lisa, Kokie, Sarah, and others.  Very helpful.

Regards,

Tom White

On Sat, Mar 5, 2016 at 3:55 AM, attorneytoner <attorneytoner at earthlink.net>
wrote:

> I now advise clients to keep originals in a safe deposit box or home safe,
> and make sure the PR has access. I sometimes use duplicate originals if the
> client doesn't have a safe place or there is danger of losing documents in
> moves.
>
> -------- Original message --------
> From: Lisa Schuchman <lisa at lisaschuchman.com>
> Date: 03/04/2016 3:58 PM (GMT-08:00)
> To: WSBA Probate & Trust Listserv <wsbapt at lists.wsbarppt.com>
> Subject: Re: [WSBAPT] Original Wills
>
> At the start of my practice, I learned from my mentors to keep original
> wills for clients. After 20+ years I had so many I realized it didn't make
> sense to be liable for them. This became clearer when I tried to contact
> all the testators to return them. After search, clerical and mailing costs
> I still had too many (maybe 150). I have to keep these till I retire and
> then I'll have to pay to file them at court. Now I talk to clients about
> alternatives for safekeeping and making sure someone has knowledge and
> access.
>
> It had never occurred to me to create duplicate originals till I probated
> an original will and learned that the estate planning attorney also had an
> original. It turned out to be the same will but almost caused a lot of
> confusion. I think it's a mistake, though I'm open to learning how it could
> be useful.
>
> Lisa E. Schuchman
> 206-325-2801
> www.lisaschuchman.com
>
> Do something for somebody every day for which you do not get paid. –Albert Schweitzer
>
>
> On Mar 4, 2016, at 2:29 PM, Tom White <thomas.henry.white at gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
> Dear List:
>
> I am wondering what the best practice is for original wills.  How many do
> you ordinarily make and where are they kept?
>
> Do you only make one, and if so where do you keep it?  Do you recommend
> the client keep it or do you deposit it with the court?
>
> Regards,
>
> --
>
> Tom White
> Attorney-At-Law
> Seattle, Washington
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-- 

Tom White
Attorney-At-Law
Seattle, Washington
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