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 MoreAs a Portland, Oregon estate lawyer, one of the most common misconceptions I hear from clients is that having a will means their loved ones can avoid probate. Unfortunately, this isn't the case. Let's dive into why wills and probate go hand in hand, and what this means for your estate planning.
Read MoreAs a Portland, Oregon probate lawyer, I've witnessed firsthand how scammers exploit families during their most vulnerable moments. The days and weeks following a loved one's passing should be a time for healing and remembrance – not defending against fraud. Let me share some crucial insights to help protect your family during this sensitive time.
Read MoreAs a Portland, Oregon probate attorney, one of the most common questions I hear from families is about student loan debt after death. With student loan debt in America reaching unprecedented levels, it's a crucial topic that affects many families during probate administration.
Read MoreIn 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.
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