According to Washington State law, probate is not mandatory. Whether a person dies with or without a will, there is no legal requirement for a probate proceeding to be filed. 

Probate in Washington is discretionary, meaning it is pursued only when someone deems it necessary, not because the law mandates it. 

This is clearly stated in various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW).

When Probate is Typically Filed

While probate is not required, there are circumstances under which it is commonly pursued:

1. Real Property: If the deceased owned real property solely in their name, probate is often necessary to transfer the title to heirs or to sell the property.
   

2. High-Value Personal Property: Probate may be needed if the deceased had personal property, such as cash or securities, worth over $100,000 titled in their name.

Settlement of Estates Without Probate

Washington law also provides for the settlement of creditor claims for estates passing without probate (Chapter 11.42 RCW). 

This allows for a streamlined process to handle smaller estates or those that do not require the formal probate process, ensuring creditors are paid and assets are distributed appropriately without the need for court intervention.

Executor and Administrator Roles

Even though probate is discretionary, if an estate goes through probate, an executor (if named in the will) or an administrator (if there is no will) will be appointed to manage the estate.

Their duties include gathering assets, paying debts, and distributing the remaining assets to heirs.

Legal Resources

For those navigating probate or considering whether probate is necessary for a specific estate in Whatcom County or elsewhere in Washington, consulting the Revised Code of Washington and other legal resources is crucial.

This can provide clarity on the obligations and options available, helping to make informed decisions during what is often a difficult time.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Washington State Legislature's RCW Title 11 and the Washington Probate Instructions.

If you need further assistance, I specialize in probate, estate, and trust sales involving real estate in Whatcom County, and I can provide guidance and support throughout this process.

Feel free to reach out to me, Brandon Nelson, for expert help in navigating probate and estate sales.