Estate planning is an essential process for anyone looking to secure their assets and protect their loved ones. One often overlooked aspect of estate planning is the prenuptial agreement, which is an invaluable tool for protecting individual assets and ensuring a smooth distribution of assets in the event of a divorce or separation. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of incorporating a prenuptial agreement into your comprehensive estate plan and how it can benefit you and your family. Remember, our Portland, Oregon prenuptial lawyer is always here to help you navigate this process.
Read MoreIn the event of a medical emergency, it's crucial to have your healthcare documents readily accessible and ensure that your treatment preferences are known to emergency personnel. Our Portland, Oregon estate lawyer has put together this article to discuss the benefits of carrying your directives with you and offer tips on effectively communicating your wishes to emergency responders.
Read MoreIn recent years, there has been a growing trend of people tattooing their medical wishes on their bodies, including "Do Not Resuscitate" (DNR) directives. While it might seem like a creative and potentially effective way to express one's wishes, relying on a tattoo as a legally binding document is risky and could lead to confusion and misinterpretation. As a Portland, Oregon estate planning attorney, I want to address the potential dangers of this trend and emphasize the importance of a properly drafted estate plan.
Read MoreEstate planning often revolves around leaving assets to family members, but what if you want to leave your estate to someone who isn't related to you? Many people have close friends, caretakers, or even charitable organizations that hold a special place in their hearts. In this blog post, our Portland, Oregon will and trust attorneys will explore the essential considerations and steps to take when leaving your estate to non-family members to ensure that your wishes are respected and your legacy is preserved.
Read MoreAs the school season winds down, it's time to start planning those long-awaited family vacations. But before you pack your bags and head out, it's crucial to ensure that your family is protected in case of the unexpected. That's where estate planning comes in.
Read MoreAs a Portland, Oregon will lawyer, I've seen firsthand how substance abuse can impact families, leaving parents heartbroken and unsure of how to protect their loved ones while preserving their legacy. In my experience, many parents want to leave an equal inheritance to all their children, but when one child is struggling with addiction, it can significantly complicate matters.
Read MoreIf you have a parent in a nursing home, you're likely facing a lot of difficult decisions and stressful situations. It's natural to feel overwhelmed, but it's important to remember that you have options and resources available to you. One question that often comes up is whether the nursing home can take a loved one’s life insurance policy. Let's dive into this issue and provide some empowering advice.
Read MoreIf you have a disabled* child, you may be tempted to assume that if something happens to you or your partner, your other children will take care of their sibling. However, it's important to take the time now to create a legal plan for your child so that they are always protected no matter what happens. This includes creating a Special Needs Trust*, also called a Supplemental Needs Trust, naming backup guardians/conservators, and considering housing scenarios in the event that their siblings can’t care for them.
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 MoreHaving a disabled child can be a life-changing experience, and it is important to plan for their future to ensure they receive the care and support they need throughout their lives. A comprehensive legal plan can provide peace of mind for both you and your child, and ensure that their needs are met, even after you are gone.
Read MoreAs our loved ones age, it's not uncommon for them to experience a decline in mental abilities that can make it difficult for them to manage their finances effectively. If you have an older loved one, it's important to be aware of the signs of diminished capacity so that you can take action to help protect their financial well-being. In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the signs of diminished capacity, and what you can do if you're concerned about your loved one's financial situation.
Read MoreWhen it comes to estate planning, many people wonder if they can simply write their wishes down in an email and have it be considered a legal Last Will and Testament. While it's true that technology has made it easier than ever to communicate our wishes and desires, an email is not typically sufficient to create a legally binding will.
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