As a Portland, Oregon Will and Trust Lawyer, I've seen firsthand the consequences of inadequate estate planning. Many parents, regardless of age, overlook crucial aspects of securing their family's future. Whether you're a new parent, think you're too young for estate planning, or haven't updated your documents in years, this post is for you. Let's explore some common estate planning mistakes and how to avoid them.
Read MoreAs we round out another election season, it's natural to focus on how government policies might affect our families and finances. However, as any experienced Portland, Oregon estate planning lawyer will tell you, there's a crucial aspect of your family's future that remains constant regardless of who's in office: the need for a personalized estate plan.
Read MoreInheriting an IRA can be a significant financial event, and recent changes to the IRS rules make it crucial for beneficiaries to understand their obligations. Whether you're in Portland, Oregon or elsewhere, these new regulations could significantly impact your inheritance. As a Portland, Oregon estate planning lawyer, I'll break down the key changes and how they could affect your financial planning.
Read MoreEven iconic artists like Prince can encounter estate planning challenges. As a devoted fan of many musical legends, I was surprised as a Portland, Oregon trust lawyer to learn that Prince passed away without a trust or will. Sadly, the resulting legal battles within his estate continue to make headlines. Let's delve into the situation and discover valuable lessons we can all learn from this unfortunate estate planning situation.
Read MoreAs a Portland, Oregon inheritance lawyer, I often recommend Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs) to clients looking to protect their family's wealth. Life insurance is a powerful estate planning tool, but without proper planning, it can become vulnerable to creditors or unnecessarily inflate your taxable estate, especially here in Oregon, where we have the lowest exemption rate in the country (your estate is taxed on everything you own at your death over $1 million). Let's explore how an ILIT can help safeguard your family's financial future.
Read MoreAs a grandparent, you've probably spent countless hours doting on your grandchildren, showering them with love, and creating precious memories. But have you considered how you can continue to support and protect them long after you're gone? As a Portland, Oregon estate planning lawyer, I've seen firsthand how grandparents can play a crucial role in securing their grandchildren's financial future. Let's explore some powerful strategies you can use to leave a lasting legacy.
Read MoreAs a Portland, Oregon business planning lawyer, I've seen too many thriving businesses falter when faced with unexpected transitions. That's where a buy-sell agreement comes in - it's the safety net you hope you'll never need but will be eternally grateful for if you do.
Read MoreAs a Portland, Oregon will lawyer, I've seen my share of DIY disasters, but AI-generated legal documents are taking things to a whole new level of potential chaos. Let me explain why entrusting your legacy to an AI might be the plot twist your family doesn't need.
Read MoreImagine you're at a family reunion, and your eccentric Uncle Joe starts talking about how he's become a "Grantor." Your cousin rolls her eyes, assuming it's just another one of Uncle Joe's quirky hobbies. But little does she know, Uncle Joe might just be the smartest person at the picnic table.
Read MoreOwning a piece of undeveloped land can be an exciting investment, full of potential and possibilities. However, when it comes to including this asset in your estate plan, there are unique considerations to keep in mind. As a Portland, Oregon estate lawyer, I often work with clients to ensure their raw land is properly addressed in their estate planning documents. Here's what you need to know…
Read MoreWhen you decide it's time to get serious about your future, you might be surprised to learn that you need not one, but two professionals in your corner: an estate planning lawyer and a financial advisor. Many people assume these roles are interchangeable or that one professional can handle it all. Spoiler alert: they are two separate roles and here's why that's actually great news for you.
Read MoreHave you ever caught yourself thinking, "I love my children, but when it comes to my future care, they'll probably end up in a battle royale"? You're not alone. As a Portland, Oregon will lawyer, I've seen countless families grapple with this exact concern. It's the elephant in the room that many of us dread addressing: what happens when our adult children can't see eye to eye on our care decisions?
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