Seattle, WA estates & probate lawyer Ceth Hickey talks about his background & experience and the one most common piece of advice he gives to his clients. He shares that practicing law is his second career. He spent nearly a decade working as a restaurant server and manager throughout his twenties before deciding to return to school in his thirties. He believes that his years in the service industry instilled a strong client-first attitude, emphasizing that his role is to serve the client and prioritize their needs above all else.

He advises clients not to underestimate the value of closure, particularly in probate or civil litigation matters where settlement is possible. Closure carries its own significance, allowing individuals to put aside emotions and resolve issues under the best possible circumstances. In complex probate matters, where family members may be in conflict and emotions run high following the loss of a loved one, he stresses the importance of stepping back to think logically while recognizing the emotional stakes for all parties. This approach fosters understanding, encourages mercy, and often leads to more positive and constructive settlements.