Probate Law and Administration

Probate is a public court process by which ownership of property is reassigned after a person's death. It is always a good idea to plan ahead and avoid any unnecessary probate costs and payment of estate and inheritance taxes. I can help you evaluate your estate needs and suggest recommendations for you including:

• A revocable living trust. Such a trust avoids probate. This transfers ownership of your assets to a trustee while you are alive. You can serve as trustee with your chosen designee as successor in case of your death or disability.
• Tax planning. This is done to preserve your assets for your heirs as you build your estate.
• A life insurance trust. This transfers life insurance proceeds out of your estate and preserves the proceeds for beneficiaries to help them save on and pay for death taxes and probate.
• A business succession plan. This helps to ensure that your small business can be continued as your direct in the event of your death or disability.

In working to administer your probate I work to ensure that.

• Legitimate bills are identified and paid
• Tax returns (income tax, fiduciary tax, estate tax, etc.) are discussed as necessary
• Oregon inheritance tax matters are taken care of
• Federal estate tax matters are taken care of
• Proper notices are sent to necessary parties

I maintain direct communication with my clients in order to determine if their assets have changed and action needs to be taken to address the change. My firm also represents individuals and families in will contests and probate litigation matters.