Understanding TEDRA: Resolving Trust and Estate Disputes in Washington

Trust and estate disputes in Washington State can be complex and emotionally challenging. To address these issues more efficiently, Washington adopted the Trust and Estate Dispute Resolution Act, commonly known as TEDRA, in 2000. TEDRA provides a structured framework for resolving disputes involving wills, trusts, and estates, while encouraging resolution outside of traditional courtroom litigation.

At its core, TEDRA is designed to promote faster and less costly dispute resolution. It emphasizes nonjudicial methods such as mediation, arbitration, and written settlement agreements between interested parties. When parties are able to reach an agreement under TEDRA, that agreement is legally binding and carries the same effect as a final court order. If alternative resolution efforts are unsuccessful, TEDRA still allows parties to pursue their claims through the court system.

TEDRA applies to a wide range of trust and estate disputes. These may include disagreements over the interpretation of a will or trust, concerns about the mental capacity of a person who created estate documents, allegations of undue influence, disputes involving heirs or beneficiaries, and issues related to the administration of an estate or trust. TEDRA also governs claims involving trustees or personal representatives, including whether they should take or refrain from certain actions or be removed from their role.

One of the key benefits of TEDRA is its focus on settlement. By prioritizing negotiated resolutions, TEDRA often helps parties resolve disputes more quickly and with lower legal costs than traditional civil litigation. This approach can also reduce conflict and preserve relationships among family members and beneficiaries.