Navigating the Sandwich Generation: Legal Tools to Ease the Caregiver’s Journey
Estate Administration, Elder Law Candice Aiston Estate Administration, Elder Law Candice Aiston

Navigating the Sandwich Generation: Legal Tools to Ease the Caregiver’s Journey

The “Sandwich Generation” refers to those caring for aging parents while raising their own children. This dual responsibility brings unique challenges that extend beyond daily caregiving to include complex legal and financial deicions. With approximately 47% of adults in their 40s and 50s having a parent over age 65 while still supporting their children, the need for proper legal planning has never been more important.

Read More
Splitting Decision-Making Powers in Your Estate Plan: Navigating the Pros and Cons | Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Lawyer
Estate Planning Candice Aiston Estate Planning Candice Aiston

Splitting Decision-Making Powers in Your Estate Plan: Navigating the Pros and Cons | Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Lawyer

Some clients wonder if they should divide decision-making responsibilities among adult children or other trusted helpers in their estate plan. As an experienced Portland, Oregon estate planning lawyer, I often discuss scenarios where one person might serve as financial power of attorney while another handles healthcare decisions. While there's nothing inherently wrong with this approach, understanding the potential benefits and drawbacks is essential before making this important choice.

Read More
How to Change Your Successor Trustee: A Guide from Your Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Attorney
Estate Planning Candice Aiston Estate Planning Candice Aiston

How to Change Your Successor Trustee: A Guide from Your Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Attorney

One of the greatest benefits of a revocable living trust is its flexibility. Life changes, relationships evolve, and sometimes the person you originally chose as your successor trustee may no longer be the best fit. As an experienced Portland, Oregon estate planning attorney, I've helped many clients navigate this common situation. Whether due to changes in their circumstances, shifts in your relationship, or simply a reconsideration of their abilities, it's completely normal to revisit this important decision.

Read More
What Do I Need to Know Before Becoming a Caregiver for a Parent? Insights from a Portland, Oregon Elder Lawyer
Elder Law, Estate Planning Candice Aiston Elder Law, Estate Planning Candice Aiston

What Do I Need to Know Before Becoming a Caregiver for a Parent? Insights from a Portland, Oregon Elder Lawyer

Taking care of a parent isn't just about love—it's about logistics. Whether you've been caregiving for years or are just stepping into this role, the reality hits fast: medication schedules, doctor appointments, financial decisions, and legal paperwork. You want to do right by your parent—but where do you even begin?

Read More
How to Make Sure Your Medical Wishes Are Honored—Even If Your Family Disagrees: Guidance on Creating an Advance Directive in Portland, Oregon
Estate Planning Candice Aiston Estate Planning Candice Aiston

How to Make Sure Your Medical Wishes Are Honored—Even If Your Family Disagrees: Guidance on Creating an Advance Directive in Portland, Oregon

It's one of the most difficult truths we deal with in this work: We sit with clients—often in the midst of long illnesses—who tell us they are at peace. They've fought hard. They've made their decisions. And when the time comes, they're ready to let go. But here's the heartbreaking part: They fear their loved ones won't let them.

Read More
Can I Write My Own Will in Oregon?
Estate Planning Candice Aiston Estate Planning Candice Aiston

Can I Write My Own Will in Oregon?

As an experienced Portland, Oregon will and trust lawyer, I'm often asked whether residents can legally write their own wills without an attorney. The short answer is yes—Oregon law does allow individuals to create their own wills. However, the more important question isn't whether you can, but whether you should.

Read More
Timing Matters: Estate Planning Lessons from Gene Hackman's Case a Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Lawyer Explains
Estate Planning Candice Aiston Estate Planning Candice Aiston

Timing Matters: Estate Planning Lessons from Gene Hackman's Case a Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Lawyer Explains

Recent news about Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy's passing hasn’t just shaken caregivers to the core, it as also highlighted a crucial but often overlooked aspect of estate planning—the timing of death between spouses, especially in blended families. As a Portland, Oregon estate planning lawyer, I've seen how this timing can significantly impact inheritance outcomes and potentially create complications for heirs.

Read More
How the SECURE Act 2.0 Affects Your Retirement Account & Beneficiaries: Insights from a Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer
Estate Planning Candice Aiston Estate Planning Candice Aiston

How the SECURE Act 2.0 Affects Your Retirement Account & Beneficiaries: Insights from a Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer

The SECURE Act 2.0, signed into law in 2022, introduced major changes to retirement accounts, impacting everything from Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) to beneficiary inheritance rules. These updates are crucial for individuals planning their estates, as they affect how retirement assets are distributed and taxed after death.

Read More
Creating a Legacy Letter: A Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Attorney's Guide to Preserving Your Values Beyond Assets
Estate Planning Candice Aiston Estate Planning Candice Aiston

Creating a Legacy Letter: A Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Attorney's Guide to Preserving Your Values Beyond Assets

Portland, Oregon estate planning lawyers often help clients create comprehensive plans that address legal and financial matters. However, one of the most meaningful components of estate planning isn't about assets at all—it's about preserving your values, wisdom, and personal history through what's known as a legacy letter.

Read More