Lasher

10/16/2026

"These are the lawyers families turn to when everything is on the line: The 2027 Lawdragon 500 Leading Family Lawyers." Pleased to celebrate Lasher's 6 Lawdragon Leading Family Lawyers.

10/15/2026

Think mediation is like a courtroom? Think again.

If you're involved in a Washington trust or estate dispute, mediation is likely part of the process under TEDRA. But many people go into it with no real idea of what to expect.

Lasher T&E Litigator, James Spencer's latest blog explains:

✔️ Why the mediator can't force a settlement
✔️ Why you may never meet face-to-face with the other party
✔️ Why compromise is part of a successful outcome
✔️ Why mediation often takes all day—and then some

Understanding the process can help reduce stress and set realistic expectations before you walk into the room.

Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/g8HM9VVE

Have you been through mediation? What surprised you most about the experience?

&ELitigation

10/15/2026

Washington doesn't recognize common law marriage—but that doesn't mean unmarried couples don't have legal rights.

If a relationship qualifies as a Committed Intimate Relationship (CIR), Washington courts may divide property when it ends. However, a CIR is not the same as a divorce.

In this blog, Lasher Family Law attorney, Will Reingold, explains three key differences, including:

✔️ No spousal maintenance (alimony)
✔️ Different rules for property division
✔️ Limited opportunities to recover attorney fees

If you're ending a long-term relationship, understanding these distinctions is essential.

Read more at Will Reingold's latest post: https://lnkd.in/gBXH2n5D

10/14/2026

When is service provider an ERISA fiduciary?

For employers, health plan sponsors, and service providers, the distinction between fiduciary and non-fiduciary has significant legal consequences.

In our latest blog, Lasher employment lawyer Aaron Schwartz explores how fiduciary status under ERISA is not an all or nothing proposition but often depends on the specific activity the service provider was performing when the alleged mistake occurred. If the service provider exercises discretion over plan assets or administration, the service provider is likely a functional fiduciary.

Why does that matter? Because the answer can shape liability and litigation strategy.

Aaron’s latest blog breaks down the legal framework, explores a real-world example, and shares practical takeaways for plan sponsors, service providers, and litigators: https://www.lasher.com/dress-for-success-choosing-the-fiduciary-or-non-fiduciary-hat/

10/14/2026

Lasher Principal, Julie Pendleton, is presenting at National Business Institute (NBI, Inc.)’s upcoming course, “Washington Probate Process from Start to Finish” on Tuesday, November 17. You can find additional information and register here: https://lnkd.in/gZDEANKC. You can also use Julie’s promo code RSVPNBI at checkout to save $50. Looking forward to seeing everyone there.

10/14/2026

A proud moment for the Lasher family! Lasher Principal Julie Pendleton was delighted to celebrate Shi Ya Neill’s swearing-in yesterday. Shi Ya joined Lasher as a summer intern in 2024 and has since accepted a position as a Judicial Law Clerk with the Washington State Court of Appeals, Division One. It’s exciting to see her continue to build her career in the legal profession.

Congratulations, Shi Ya! We’re proud to have been part of your journey and look forward to seeing all that’s ahead.

10/14/2026

AI transparency is coming to Washington. Is your business ready?

Washington’s new HB 1170 will require certain large-scale generative AI providers to identify AI-generated or significantly AI-modified content—and creates new disclosure requirements for government agencies using AI.

The law takes effect February 1, 2027, but businesses should start preparing now.

Lasher attorney, Roxanneh Mousavi's latest blog breaks down who is covered, what qualifies, and what businesses should do before the law takes effect: https://lnkd.in/gKpGUg75

10/13/2026

Your prenuptial agreement may not be as “set it and forget it” as you think.

A prenup reflects the circumstances and expectations of two people at a particular moment in time. But life -- and marriage -- can change things over the years.

Careers change. Businesses grow. Children arrive. Inheritances happen. Couples move, accumulate wealth, and make financial decisions that may look very different 10, 20 or 30 years after the wedding.

So why wait until divorce -- or worse, a death -- to find out whether your agreement still reflects the life you’ve built together?

A periodic review of your prenuptial agreement can help you understand where you stand and determine whether a postnuptial agreement or other changes may be appropriate.

Maybe it’s time to dust off that prenup...

Read Lasher Family Law Principal Lisa Sharpe's latest blog to learn why a five- or ten-year check-in could be an important part of your financial planning: https://lnkd.in/gySg6n2x

10/13/2026

When a family business and an estate plan collide, things can get complicated—quickly.

What happens when the business owner, trustee, and family member are all the same person? Or when the succession plan isn’t what you expected?

Lasher attorney Emily Husa's latest post explores family business disputes in probate and the role TEDRA can play in resolving them: https://lnkd.in/gFGX_JBf

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10/09/2026

A little Oktoberfest cheer at Lasher!

Yesterday, we gathered for great food from Rhein Haus Seattle, good company, and a little Bavarian flair. Lasher attorney Brent Beecher stole the show in his authentic Bavarian lederhosen!

With beautiful Seattle weather and our gorgeous new conference room as the backdrop, it was a perfect opportunity to step away from the work for a bit, share a meal, and enjoy time together.

"Prost!" to good food, great colleagues, and making time to connect!