August is Make-A-Will Month, a national reminder of the importance of having a valid will in place. While it might not be the most exciting topic, taking this step is crucial for ensuring your wishes are respected and your loved ones are taken care of after you're gone.
Read MoreThe "Sandwich Generation" is a term that resonates with many today – individuals caring for both their aging parents and their own children. It's a balancing act that demands time, energy, and emotional resilience. Juggling work commitments, childcare, and eldercare can leave little time for personal needs, leading to exhaustion and burnout. The emotional toll of witnessing loved ones age or struggle can also weigh heavily.
Read MoreIn the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to put off estate planning. But as a Portland, Oregon estate lawyer, I can't stress enough how crucial it is to have your affairs in order, especially when it comes to healthcare decisions and financial management.
Read MoreHospice care offers comfort and support during a serious illness, focusing on quality of life rather than curative treatment. While it’s often associated with end-of-life situations, a hospice stay can last for months or even years. This highlights the importance of a flexible estate plan that addresses not only what happens after you pass but also the practicalities of your financial and personal life during an extended hospice journey.
Read MoreIf you've ever questioned the difference between conservatorships, guardianships, and powers of attorney for seniors, you're not alone. As a Portland, Oregon elder lawyer, I often field questions about these distinct yet related legal mechanisms. Here's an explanation to help you understand the nuances of each.
Read MoreAs a Portland, Oregon estate planning lawyer, I often receive questions about the roles and responsibilities of an executor and a power of attorney (POA), especially in situations where a loved one is no longer living at home. A question I recently received encapsulates a common misunderstanding.
Read MoreEstate planning can seem daunting with its complex terminology and numerous components. But don't worry, this guide from our Portland, Oregon estate planning attorney guide is here to help you navigate the basics.
Read MoreAs our family members age, taking care of their financial and medical needs becomes increasingly important. Having conversations about the realities of aging early on can help ease the emotional stress that comes with it - providing a cushion for both you and your loved ones in case any conditions like dementia set in quickly down the line. With proactive planning and by utilizing the strategies listed below, families can ensure that their older loved ones are well-supported through this stage of life.
Read MoreWhen most people think about estate planning tools such as power of attorney, they imagine that they are solely for people who already have children, who have significant assets, or who are nearing the end of their lives. However, you may be surprised to know that many Portland, Oregon will lawyers also recommend that college students have powers of attorney in place for both their healthcare and their finances. While your college-aged child may not require other aspects of a full estate plan, these power of attorney documents could nevertheless be vital.
Read MoreWhether you’re a single senior who lives alone or one who lives with a partner, establishing a new estate plan or modifying an existing one is essential. You might wish to leave assets to your partner that they could not get through intestate succession, or maybe you have children you want to leave your assets to. Perhaps there are organizations you want to receive a charitable donation upon your death. Whatever your final wishes, you should create a legally enforceable estate plan now.
Read MoreIn the early part of 2022, many young families spent a lot of time watching Disney’s award-winning animated film Encanto. Repeatedly. While the movie is obviously a great source of entertainment for kids, Portland, Oregon estate planning attorneys have also noticed that it contains a lot of valuable lessons that can help people prepare for their family’s future.
Read MoreAs we age, our likelihood of mental incapacity increases. After all, our bodies and minds deteriorate as we age. Mental incapacity could result from dementia, stroke, brain injury, or other illness. What is mental incapacity and in what ways can you plan to be best prepared for it?
Read More