In my years as a Portland, Oregon probate attorney, I've seen an alarming trend: scammers targeting grieving families with fake debt collection calls. These predators scan obituaries and public records, then approach family members claiming the deceased owed them money. Today, I want to warn you about these schemes and explain how debt really works after someone passes away.
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 MoreWhen a loved one passes away, settling their estate can be a complex process, especially if you're not familiar with their financial affairs. As a Portland, Oregon probate lawyer, I often hear concerns from family members worried about missing assets or incomplete information. Let's address these common worries and explore what happens in these situations.
Read MoreLosing a loved one is always difficult, and the challenge can be compounded when they pass away in a different state. If you're facing this situation, it’s important to know that you may be able to manage many of their affairs from a distance. As your local Portland, Oregon probate lawyer, we're here to guide you through this process and connect you with the right resources nationwide.
Read MoreThe holiday season, while festive, can also be a time of reflection, especially for those who have recently experienced the loss of a loved one. The aftermath of such a loss often involves navigating the complexities of probate and trust administration. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through this challenging time.
Read MoreThe probate process can seem daunting, especially when navigating the myriad of assets left behind by a loved one. While many assets pass through probate, some bypass this legal process altogether. Understanding this distinction is crucial for beneficiaries and executors. Let's explore these exclusions together.
Read MoreInheriting assets is a mix of honor and responsibility. As a Portland, Oregon probate lawyer, I've seen many people unprepared for the implications of managing their inheritance. The inclination to treat an inheritance as "bonus" money is common, but there are many pragmatic ways to use these funds for future benefits.
Read MoreThe way we plan for the future can have profound effects on our loved ones. When it comes to estate planning, one essential but often overlooked step is naming alternative beneficiaries on your accounts.
Read MoreProbate is a legal process that occurs after a person passes away, dealing with the distribution of their assets under the supervision of a court. It's a term that many of us have heard, but few fully understand. Knowing the basics can help you prepare for the future and protect your loved ones.
Read MoreThe personal representative (commonly known as an executor) of an estate plays a crucial role in managing and distributing a person's assets after they pass away. But what happens when the personal representative is making mistakes or failing in their duties of estate administration in Oregon? It's a delicate and stressful situation, but one that can be addressed legally and ethically. Here's a guide from our Portland, Oregon probate attorney.
Read MoreWhen a loved one enters hospice care, it can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. One of the most important things to consider is estate planning—which can help ensure that your loved one’s wishes are honored and surviving family members are financially cared for. The following steps can help caregivers more smoothly navigate legal issues that arise during the end-of-life process.
Read MoreThey say celebrities are “just like the rest of us,” and that’s certainly true when it comes to estate planning. While no one likes to think about (or plan for) their incapacity or death, there are real-life consequences for not doing so. It doesn’t matter if you are a billionaire or just an average Joe, everyone needs a plan to protect their assets and their family if something happens to them.
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