Ready to Protect Your Assets and Your Loved Ones
Most people do not think about what may happen after they pass away. However, it is never too early to take steps to protect your assets and your family members by creating a will. To ensure the written document is legally binding, it is imperative to have an experienced estate planning attorney guide you through the process.
If you are interested in creating or modifying a will in Bend, let our legal team at Pacific Cascade help you. Do not hesitate to let us make sure your wishes are heard, the proper paperwork is filled, and the document is enforceable by law.
Call (541) 236-9655 or complete our online contact form today to schedule an initial consultation.
Why You Should Make a Will
Also known as a last will and testament, a will is a written document expressing your wishes in order to help you protect your family and your assets. A will becomes active once you pass away.
A will can be used to do any of the following:
- Leave your property to beneficiaries (e.g., individuals or organizations)
- Name an executor to fulfill the terms or your will
- Name a personal guardian to care for your minor children
- Name a trusted person to manage your minor children’s property
In order to create a will in Oregon, you must be at least 18 years of age (or an emancipated or married minor) and of sound mind. To finalize your will, you must sign or acknowledge the document in front of at least two witnesses, who must sign your will within a reasonable time prior to your death.
Oregon allows individuals to create “self-proving” wills, which means notarization is not required. A self-proving will can make the probate process much faster since the court can accept the will without having to reach out to the listed witnesses.
If you die without a will, you will not be able to control who inherits your possessions. Rather, a probate judge will determine who gets what is based on Oregon law.
According to the state’s intestacy laws, your property will be distributed to your closest relatives, starting with your spouse and children. If you are not married and do not have kids, your parents, siblings, grandparents, and other family members will get your assets.
Let Our Firm Help You Create a Will Today!
If you believe certain family members may contest your will or if you wish to disinherit some of them, having a lawyer on your side can help you ensure wishes are documented. We can also help you change or revoke your will, if necessary.
Interested in drafting or changing a will in Bend, OR? Contact us today at (541) 236-9655 and speak with our experienced estate planning team.