5 Reasons Everyone Needs a Will
The hesitancy to plan for death as part of life is a common reason for not having a will. I like to reframe the conversation by teaching why a will should be considered a living document. The reason being that…
Can I add a Canadian Property to an Oregon Trust?
Q: I am a resident of Oregon and own property in Canada. One piece is a condo at Whistler, BC and the other is one is ownership of half of a home that my sister and I inherited from my…
Recent Additions to the Duties of a Guardian
If you are serving as or thinking of becoming the legal guardian of a loved one, you should understand that your role as guardian will come with certain legal requirements and limitations. In general, a guardian may establish a residence…
Where to start when a loved one has died and you’re in charge of their affairs
The already difficult process of losing a loved one can be made even harder if you’re the person left in charge of their affairs. It can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. Relax, we’re here to help. Below…
I live in Oregon but am not a US citizen. Which estate planning documents do I need?
The world is getting smaller and we are seeing a lot of people that are from other countries but reside here in Oregon. Many may return to their country of origin. The fact is that if you plan on residing…
What happens when someone dies while traveling abroad
Fortunately, the world has gotten smaller and deaths abroad are no longer the logistical disaster of some years ago. When you’re planning on traveling out of the country you should make sure you have your estate planning documents in place.…
Why estate planning is important for same-sex couples in Oregon
Three years ago today, on March 14, 2016, the definition of marriage under Oregon law was extended to include same-sex couples. Married or not, it is important for same-sex couples to understand their estate planning options. Have you thought about…
Instead of sit-ups this year, resolve to create or update your estate planning documents
With the New Year behind us, our thoughts inevitably turn to new beginnings and self-improvement. A survey from Statista shows that last year many of us resolved to eat healthier and exercise more (37%), save more money (37%), get a…
This year, instead of discussing politics at the holiday dinner table, have an awkward but productive conversation about estate planning!
Scene: A quiet December evening in Portland Oregon. A light dusting of snow has drivers abandoning their cars in the streets, while relatives in town from Seattle smugly claim to be great at driving in the snow. Aunt Jo, who…
The court has appointed me as guardian for a family member. Does that mean I need to tell the court if I plan to move him or her?
Yes. If you are a guardian, you probably already know that the court requires you to file an Annual Guardian’s Report, which keeps the court updated about where the person is living and how they are doing. What you may…
Does my college-aged child need estate planning documents?
Yes! Most people would be surprised to hear that their college-aged child needs estate planning documents. At age eighteen, a child is legally considered an adult but may still benefit from the assistance and guidance of their parents in making…
How long does it take to process an Emergency Guardianship?
We are often contacted about Emergency Guardianship when a loved one has been hospitalized. Generally, if a person has been hospitalized after an unsafe behavior, courts take the view that the immediate crisis has passed because the person is safe…
Should I update my Oregon Advance Directive?
The Advance Directive form has not been updated since 1993 and some people find parts of it confusing. Oregon’s House Bill 4135 recently passed establishing a temporary form. If you have a current Advance Directive there is no need to…
Should I update my estate planning to avoid probate?
After someone dies, a court process known as probate may be required to ensure debts and taxes are paid and remaining assets are transferred to the rightful recipients. The probate process includes having a personal representative appointed by a judge,…
