How Can I Talk to My Family About Inheritance Without Starting Drama?
We've all seen the movies—someone passes away, and the family gathers for the dramatic will reading, only to spiral into chaos when expectations don't match reality. But in real life, it doesn't have to be that way.
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.
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.
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.
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.
8 Critical Things People Forget to Include in Their Will: A Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Attorney Explains
As a Portland, Oregon estate planning attorney, I've seen firsthand how even carefully drafted wills can have significant oversights. While most people remember to address major assets like homes and financial accounts, certain important provisions are frequently overlooked. These forgotten elements can create unnecessary stress, conflict, and expenses for your loved ones after you're gone. Let’s cover some of the most common we see.
Caregiving Alone Is Dangerous: The Biggest Lesson in Gene Hackman’s Death According to a Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer
You may have heard the news that actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa recently died within days of one another at the ages of 95 and 65. Their tragic deaths highlighted something I see a lot as a Portland, Oregon estate lawyer: many people are putting themselves and their loved ones in danger by caregiving for an incapacitated loved one alone.
Your Healthcare, Your Decision: A Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Attorney Explains Why Planning Ahead Pays Off
We often picture healthcare decisions as something that only comes up in a hospital setting, but the truth is, these choices deserve your attention long before a crisis arises. As a Portland, Oregon estate planning attorney, I've seen how advance planning can make a world of difference for both individuals and their families during challenging times.
When Life's Storms Strike: A Portland, Oregon Trust Lawyer's Guide to Protecting Your Estate and Insurance Coverage
As a Portland, Oregon trust lawyer, I've seen how storms in life can come in all shapes and sizes—health crises, divorce, or the loss of a loved one. And of course, there are the literal storms: hurricanes, floods, and fires that can damage property and uproot lives. In recent months, you may have seen social media posts claiming that insurance companies won't pay out a total loss if your home is owned by a trust. While it's true insurers are more frequently scrutinizing claims, that doesn't mean your coverage is automatically void.
Navigating the "Autism Cliff": A Portland, Oregon Special Needs* Planning Attorney Explains What Parents Need to Know
Families with a child on the autism spectrum often experience a stark change when that child reaches age 18, a transition sometimes referred to as the "autism cliff." Many of the supportive services relied on during childhood, such as specialized education programs, may shift or end altogether in adulthood. This can leave parents concerned about how to maintain consistent care and ensure their child's ongoing well-being.
Myths About Wills and Probate: A Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer Explains What You Need to Know
As 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.
Will Your Family Business Survive the Future? Succession Planning Considerations from a Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer
As a Portland, Oregon estate lawyer, I've seen many family businesses flourish across generations. Unfortunately, I've also witnessed others falter during transition, not because of market conditions or competition, but due to inadequate succession planning. The hard truth? Sometimes the biggest threats to your business legacy come from within the family itself.