The Grantor: Unsung Hero of Estate Planning - A Portland, Oregon Trust Lawyer's Perspective
Imagine you're at a family reunion, and your eccentric Uncle Joe starts talking about how he's become a "Grantor." Your cousin rolls her eyes, assuming it's just another one of Uncle Joe's quirky hobbies. But little does she know, Uncle Joe might just be the smartest person at the picnic table.
What to Know When Including Raw Land in Your Estate Plan: Advice from a Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer
Owning a piece of undeveloped land can be an exciting investment, full of potential and possibilities. However, when it comes to including this asset in your estate plan, there are unique considerations to keep in mind. As a Portland, Oregon estate lawyer, I often work with clients to ensure their raw land is properly addressed in their estate planning documents. Here's what you need to know…
The Dynamic Duo of Your Financial Future: How Portland, Oregon Estate Planning Lawyers and Financial Advisors Collaborate
When you decide it's time to get serious about your future, you might be surprised to learn that you need not one, but two professionals in your corner: an estate planning lawyer and a financial advisor. Many people assume these roles are interchangeable or that one professional can handle it all. Spoiler alert: they are two separate roles and here's why that's actually great news for you.
Family Feud: Estate Planning Edition - How to Prevent Your Kids from Fighting Over Your Care in Portland, Oregon
Have you ever caught yourself thinking, "I love my children, but when it comes to my future care, they'll probably end up in a battle royale"? You're not alone. As a Portland, Oregon will lawyer, I've seen countless families grapple with this exact concern. It's the elephant in the room that many of us dread addressing: what happens when our adult children can't see eye to eye on our care decisions?
Q & A with Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer: Updating Estate Plan after Divorce
My ex-husband is named as the executor in my will. Do I need to change this after our divorce?
Expect the Unexpected: A Portland, Oregon Special Needs Lawyer's Guide to Contingency Planning
As parents of disabled children or adults, we often find ourselves lost in thought about their future. We picture a world where they're safe, happy, and well-cared for, even when we're no longer around to guide them. But here's a hard truth that many of us have faced: sometimes, despite our best efforts, Plan A just doesn't pan out.
It's 'Make-A-Will Month': Take Your First Step Toward Peace of Mind in Portland, Oregon
August is Make-A-Will Month, a national reminder of the importance of having a valid will in place. While it might not be the most exciting topic, taking this step is crucial for ensuring your wishes are respected and your loved ones are taken care of after you're gone.
Portland, Oregon Asset Protection Lawyer: Safeguarding Your Future as a Physician
If you're a new doctor building your practice or a seasoned physician branching out on your own, it's time to give serious thought to asset protection planning. Did you know that doctors are among the top professionals targeted in lawsuits? It's not a matter of "if" but "when" you might face a claim.
Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer: What If I Change My Mind? The Flexibility of Estate Planning
A common concern we hear from clients is hesitation to appoint specific individuals to roles of authority in their estate plan. They worry about changing their mind and feeling "locked in" to those choices. The truth is your estate plan is not set in stone. In fact, it's designed to evolve with you.
Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer: Protecting Your Home (and Your Heart) in Later-Life Marriages
Finding love later in life is a beautiful thing. But sometimes, the realities of life and past decisions can throw a wrench into the fairy tale. A common scenario I encounter as a Portland, Oregon estate lawyer involves couples where one spouse moves into a home owned by the other's adult children.
Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer on Navigating the Sandwich Generation : A Balancing Act
The "Sandwich Generation" is a term that resonates with many today – individuals caring for both their aging parents and their own children. It's a balancing act that demands time, energy, and emotional resilience. Juggling work commitments, childcare, and eldercare can leave little time for personal needs, leading to exhaustion and burnout. The emotional toll of witnessing loved ones age or struggle can also weigh heavily.
Q & A with Portland, Oregon Estate Lawyer: Co-Signing a Home Loan for Your Responsible Adult Child
"I'm considering co-signing a loan so my daughter can buy a house before prices go any higher. My realtor suggested talking with an estate attorney to make sure I understand any repercussions it could have on my estate and financial plans before I go on jointly with her. What specifically should I know?"