[WSBAPT] Notice to Heirs to Refuse to Provide Contact Information

[Jake Seegmuller]

We are trying to serve notice of hearing to heirs of an intestate estate. Our private investigator has found that the heirs are in some kind of address protection program and refuse to speak with us or our client. The only contact we are able to make is with a man who claims to be their uncle. The uncle has provided inconsistent instructions or offers of assistance to put us in contact with the heirs. This is an estate with modest assets.

We've considered attempting to obtain emails and affirmative consent by email as an avenue for service but there is a distinct possibility that will not come to fruition.

If we're unable to make contact with heirs to either obtain their consent to our client's appointment or provide mailed notice of the hearing, what options are available to us to provide proper notice? Can we publish notice in a local legal paper in lieu of mailing ahead of the hearing and after in place of a mailed notice of appointment? Can the "Uncle" accept service on their behalf?

Answers or thoughts on or off list are appreciated.

Sincerely,

[cid:image001.png at 01DC53B6.6DC67C30]
 Jakob O. Seegmuller (he/him)
 Attorney
 nwlegacylaw.com | 360-975-7770


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