Frequently Asked Questions About Wailea Law LLLC
Who is Wailea Law LLLC?
Wailea Law LLLC is a boutique Maui law firm backed by over 16 years of legal experience, built on professional, responsive results. Our law firm provides personalized legal counsel in Estate Planning, Probate, Real Estate, Condominium Property Regime (CPR) law, and Business Law, serving individuals, families, trusts, and businesses across Maui and the State of Hawaii. Learn more about Wailea Law LLLC here.
Where is Wailea Law LLLC located?
Wailea Law LLLC is based in Wailea, in South Maui, Hawaii. We serve clients throughout Maui and across the State of Hawaii, and offer remote-friendly services for out-of-state and international clients. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
What areas of law does Wailea Law LLLC practice?
Wailea Law LLLC practices in five core areas: Real Estate Law, Probate, Estate Planning, Business Law, and Condominium Property Regime (CPR) Law. Wailea Law LLLC does not handle litigation, landlord and tenant, criminal defense, personal injury, divorce, or bankruptcy matters.
Who owns Wailea Law LLLC?
The firm is led by Steven R. Slazyk, Esq., who has maintained a real estate, land, corporate, and estates practice since 2010. Prior to private practice, Steven worked at a large multinational law firm, the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo, and the United Nations Tribunal in Cambodia. Meet the team at Wailea Law LLLC here.
Can I work with Wailea Law LLLC if I live on the mainland or outside of Hawaii?
Yes. Wailea Law LLLC regularly works with out-of-state and international clients. The firm offers a remote-friendly approach: we can draft, notarize, and record documents electronically, coordinate with title companies and escrow agents, and guide clients through every step of the process without requiring travel to Maui. This is especially helpful for out-of-state families dealing with probate, property transfers, or estate planning involving Hawaii assets.
How do I schedule a consultation with Wailea Law LLLC?
You can schedule a consultation by calling (808) 463-5288 or emailing info@wailea.law. You can also submit a contact request online here.
What makes Wailea Law LLLC different from other Maui law firms?
Wailea Law LLLC is a boutique firm, which means clients work directly with experienced attorneys rather than being passed off to junior associates. We combine deep local knowledge of Hawaii's unique legal landscape with global experience, including Steven Slazyk's background at a multinational law firm and international institutions. The firm's core values - professional representation, responsive communication, and results-driven counsel - guide every client matter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Services
PROBATE
How long does probate take in Hawaii?
The timeline for probate in Hawaii depends on the complexity of the estate. Informal probate cases, where there is a valid will and no disputes among heirs, can often be resolved in a few months. Formal probate cases, particularly those involving real estate, multiple heirs, outstanding debts, or contested wills, can take a year or more. Ancillary probate proceedings for out-of-state estates with Hawaii property typically add additional time depending on coordination with the primary probate jurisdiction. Learn more about the probate process in Hawaii here.
How to avoid probate in Hawaii?
The most effective way to avoid probate in Hawaii is to establish a revocable living trust, which allows assets to transfer directly to beneficiaries without court involvement. Other tools include joint tenancy with right of survivorship, beneficiary designations on accounts and insurance policies, and transfer on death deeds where applicable. For Maui property owners especially, a well-structured estate plan can eliminate or significantly reduce the need for probate. Learn more about estate planning on Maui. Also read: Maui Estate Planning: What Happens If You Die Without A Plan in Hawaii.
How much does probate cost in Hawaii?
Probate costs in Hawaii vary based on the size and complexity of the estate. Costs typically include court filing fees, attorney fees, personal representative fees, and costs for appraisals, notices, and recordings. Attorney fees for probate are often calculated as a percentage of the estate's gross value or billed hourly. For smaller estates valued at $100,000 or less with no real estate, Hawaii's small estate affidavit process may be available, which significantly reduces cost and time. Contact Wailea Law LLLC for a consultation to discuss your specific situation.
How to file an ancillary probate in Hawaii?
Ancillary probate is required in Hawaii when a person who lived in another state or country owned real property or assets in Hawaii at the time of their death. To initiate ancillary probate in Hawaii, a petition must be filed with the appropriate Circuit Court, accompanied by certified copies of the primary probate proceedings from the decedent's home state. The process requires satisfying Hawaii-specific legal requirements, including creditor notice periods and proper transfer of title. Wailea Law LLLC regularly assists out-of-state families with ancillary probate and handles all filings locally so clients do not need to travel. Learn more about our probate services.
ESTATE PLANNING
What happens if you die without a valid will in Hawaii?
Dying without a valid will in Hawaii means your estate is distributed under Hawaii's intestacy laws, which follow a fixed hierarchy regardless of your personal wishes. Your surviving spouse, children, parents, or other relatives inherit according to statute — not according to what you would have chosen. Your estate will also need to go through probate, which can be a lengthy and costly court-supervised process. A properly drafted will and estate plan ensures your assets go to the people you intend, on your terms. Learn more about estate planning on Maui. Read also: Maui Estate Planning: What Happens If You Die Without A Plan in Hawaii.
Estate planning for young families in Hawaii, where do I start?
For young families on Maui, the most important first steps are drafting a will that names a guardian for minor children, establishing a revocable living trust to avoid probate and protect assets, and putting a power of attorney and advance health care directive in place. These documents ensure that if something unexpected happens, your children are cared for by someone you trust and your financial and medical decisions are in the right hands. Read: Best Estate Planning Services for Families in Hawaii.
Estate planning for business owners in Hawaii, what do I need?
Business owners on Maui need an estate plan that addresses both personal assets and the future of their business. This typically includes a will or trust, a buy-sell agreement or succession plan for the business, a power of attorney to ensure business operations can continue if you're incapacitated, and clear instructions for what happens to ownership interests upon death. Without a plan, a business can be tied up in probate or face ownership disputes that disrupt operations. Learn more about our Business Law services. Read also: Maui Business Law Attorneys - Guiding Local Businesses to Success.
REAL ESTATE
How do I transfer property titles in Hawaii?
Transferring property title in Hawaii requires a properly drafted and recorded deed. Hawaii does not offer standard deed forms, so the State of Hawaii Bureau of Conveyances recommends working with an attorney to ensure the deed is correctly prepared and recorded. The type of deed, warranty, quitclaim, or otherwise, depends on the nature of the transaction and the goals of the parties involved. Working with a Maui real estate attorney ensures the transfer is legally valid, properly recorded, and that your rights are fully protected. Learn more about property transfers. Read also: How to Transfer Property Title in Hawaii.
How do I transfer a house title to a family member in Hawaii?
Transferring a house title to a family member in Hawaii, whether as a gift, inheritance, or private sale, requires a properly drafted deed that meets Hawaii's Bureau of Conveyances requirements. The transfer must be recorded with the appropriate Bureau of Conveyances or Land Court office depending on the title system applicable to the property. Hawaii uses a unique dual land title system, so it is important to work with an attorney who understands which system applies to your property. Tax implications, including Hawaii's conveyance tax, should also be considered. Contact Wailea Law LLLC to handle your family property transfer correctly. Read: How to Transfer Property Title in Hawaii.
What can a real estate attorney do for me?
A Maui real estate attorney can review and draft purchase agreements, resolve title and easement issues, handle private and family property transfers, assist with seller financing arrangements, coordinate with escrow and title companies, prepare and record deeds, advise on zoning and land use matters, and guide out-of-state buyers through transactions remotely. For complex Hawaii transactions, including CPR structures, timeshare transfers, and dual land title issues, having an attorney is not just helpful, it is essential. Learn more about our Real Estate Law services. Read also: When to Hire a Maui Law Firm Instead of Handling Legal Matters Alone.
BUSINESS LAW
How do I start an LLC in Hawaii?
To form an LLC in Hawaii, you must file Articles of Organization with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) and pay the required filing fee. You should also draft an operating agreement that outlines the management structure, member roles, and how profits and decisions are handled. While Hawaii does not legally require an operating agreement, having one is strongly recommended, especially for multi-member LLCs. Working with a business attorney ensures your LLC is properly structured from day one and compliant with Hawaii state requirements. Learn more about our Business Law services. Read also: LLC Formation in Hawaii: What Maui Business Owners Need to Know.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Hawaii?
Processing times with the Hawaii DCCA vary. Standard filing typically takes several weeks, while expedited processing can reduce that timeline significantly. After filing, you will also need to obtain any required business licenses, set up a registered agent, and complete any county-specific requirements for operating on Maui. A business attorney can handle the filing on your behalf and ensure everything is completed correctly and promptly. Contact Wailea Law LLLC to get your LLC started. Read: LLC Formation in Hawaii: What Maui Business Owners Need to Know.
What are Hawaii's single member LLC tax rules?
In Hawaii, a single member LLC is treated as a disregarded entity for federal tax purposes, meaning the LLC's income and expenses are reported on the owner's personal federal tax return. However, Hawaii imposes its own General Excise Tax (GET) on business gross income, which applies to single member LLCs operating in the state. Hawaii also requires LLCs to file an annual report with the DCCA to maintain good standing. Tax treatment can vary depending on how the LLC is structured and what elections have been made, so it is advisable to consult with both a business attorney and a Hawaii tax professional. Learn more about Business Law on Maui.