Janta Steele

I am curious about your story and want you to feel heard throughout your legal process, whether it is estate planning, a probate, a guardianship application, or something else. I want to level with you so I can give you quality advice that helps you move forward.

About me: I live in Lakewood, Washington with my husband, but grew up in British Columbia. I am very active in my church, and I got a puppy in 2023 so I could compete in dog agility. If you are curious about me, please don't hesitate to call. I would love to know how I can help.

• Google Meet
• Zoom
• WhatsApp

• Credit Cards Accepted
• Rates, Retainers and Additional Information
  My hourly rate is $250.00 per hour. I generally offer consultations for $125.00 per hour, and free 30-minute consultations for new probate or estate planning clients.

British Columbia

2019-2023

Washington

Washington State Bar Association

ID Number: 60876

Since 2023

Estate, Probate, and Guardianship Attorney

Alliance Law Group

2024 - Current

Estate, Probate, and Guardianship Attorney

Alliance Law Group

2024 - Current

Probate and Estate Law Attorney

Comfort Davies Smith & Crawford

2023 - 2023

Attorney

RDM Lawyers, Abbotsford, British Columbia

2020 - 2023

Intern/ Attorney

Hamilton Duncan, Surrey, British Columbia

2018 - 2020

Secretariat Coordinator

British Columbia Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology

2016 - 2017

Administrative Coordinator

British Columbia Ministry of Small Business and Tourism

2016 - 2016

Support staff to Minister of Small Business and Tourism

Research Officer/ Legislative Assistant

Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Government Caucus

2013 - 2015

Queen Mary University of London

LL.B.

2008 - 2010

University of British Columbia

B.B.A.

2003 - 2008

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

2024 - Current

Tacoma Estate Planning Council

2024 - Current

Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association

2024 - Current

Washington Women Lawyers

2024 - Current

Washington State Bar Association  # 60876

2023 - Current

Q. Does a grandson qualify as heir in WA probate case without a will?

March 11, 2025

A: Yes, if your mother's estate is being probated without a will and any of her children passed away before her but leaving their own children (i.e. if your brother died before your mother but had kids), then any grandchild by a pre-deceased child inherits under RCW 11.04.015(2)(a).

A probate guardian ad litem should be appointed for the grandchild(ren) if they are under 18 years old.

Q. To avoid probate in WA state, do I need a living trust for my home (worth over $100,000)?

October 28, 2024

A: As long as all your other assets pass by beneficiary designation (i.e. POD), you could avoid a probate by drafting a trust and transferring your home to be titled in the name of the trust.

However, it would be simpler to just record a transfer on death deed for your house, if that's the only asset that would trigger a probate. Feel free to call and set up an appointment if you want a more detailed review of your situation and your options.

Q. Do I need to file probate… Mom passed in July, old will in her papers. Attorney no longer around, what do I need to do?

September 10, 2024

A: First, I'm so sorry for your loss.

A probate is necessary in Washington state if your mom owned land or if what she owned when she passed is worth more than 100,000.

I assist clients with probates from across Washington state, and I would be happy to offer a free 30-minute consultation by Zoom or in person near Tacoma to help you identify your next steps.