[WSBAPT] Dilemma

[Philip N. Jones]

This is oft-debated.  I keep originals.  But I have a firm that will still be here after I die.  Many attorneys, particularly solo practitioners, do not like to keep originals.  Given the predicament you are in, you may have to hold on to the originals.  You don't mention how old you are, but unless you are nearing retirement, I would hold on to the originals.  My try again in a year to give them back.
Phil Jones
Portland, OR

From: wsbapt-bounces at lists.wsbarppt.com [mailto:wsbapt-bounces at lists.wsbarppt.com] On Behalf Of Lisa E Schuchman
Sent: Thursday, May 03, 2018 1:29 PM
To: WSBA Probate & Trust Listserv <wsbapt at lists.wsbarppt.com>; elder-law-section at list.wsba.org
Subject: [WSBAPT] Dilemma

Hi, listmates,

I did estate planning at the beginning of this year for an older client.  She understood what her assets were and knew the natural objects of her bounty, and she made decisions that made sense to me.  However, she was forgetful. For example, when we met at her house to review the drafts I mailed her, she didn't know where they were.  They have since been signed, and I promised her son that I would keep the originals till a mix-up with her safe deposit box was resolved.  It hasn't been resolved yet. I have been in touch with her (out-of-state) son, with her permission, but he hasn't resolved it either.  I don't keep original documents and I don't have a safe place for them.  I'm uncomfortable keeping them in my office and I'm uncomfortable sending them to her. I sent her son information about filing the will with the court but he didn't respond. She also did POAs, which can't go to the registry. Does anyone have any ideas about what to do about this?

Lisa E. Schuchman
206-960-4212
www.lisaschuchman.com<http://www.lisaschuchman.com/>

I learn, I give. - Gloria Steinem

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