[WSBARP] Question re: surviving girlfriend as PR

[Anthony Gibbs]

A potential client called with the following situation:

She has 4 sisters. Their father died intestate more than one year ago. At
the time of his death, their father had a live-in girlfriend for about 20
years, although no formal or legally recognized marriage.

The long-time live-in girlfriend is claiming they were married, although no
record of such a marriage exists. As such, the GF got a lawyer and herself
appointed as PR of their father's estate. The sisters made allegations of
elder abuse to DHS years ago based on observed physical violence, which
complaint was ignored.

The potential client is concerned that the GF is trying to take all the
assets of the estate. The bulk of the estate is a $450,000 mesothelioma
settlement and a house.

My question: since WA doesn't recognize common law marriages, could we
petition the court to replace GF as PR with potential client? That way, the
former GF can make a creditor claim against the estate if she wants, but
not take the money and run, as it were.

Any thoughts are most appreciated.

Thanks!

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