Comprehensive Estate Planning Services

Using different methods and handling all aspects of estate planning, Harris & Bowker LLP customizes your estate plan to fit your needs, whether you have a complex estate in need of extensive planning or a simple estate.

Estate planning includes more than just deciding what happens to your assets after death. We also prepare documents that address your healthcare and medical needs throughout your lifetime.

We have extensive experience with same-sex couple estate planning.

We also assist clients in dealing with transfer of business ownership and real property to ease transfers and operation after death.

Tools we use include:

  • Wills
  • Revocable Living Trusts
  • Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts
  • Health Care Powers of Attorney and Advance Directives
  • General Durable Powers of Attorney for Financial Matters
  • HIPAA Authorizations to allow your named agents access to your medical condition
  • Bussiness Succession Planning

Consider these questions when you consult an attorney regarding estate planning:

  • What assets do you own?
  • Do you own real property in multiple states?
  • Do you currently have an estate plan? If so, what does it contain?
  • Where and to whom do you want your assets to go upon your death; how should they receive them: outright or over time?
  • Is there a plan for the future welfare and education of your children on your death?
  • Do you have any dependents that have special needs?
  • What documents exist that tell others your wishes in regards to medical care and your finances?
  • If you own a business, what will happen to the business on your death? Will it continue to operate?

Key Focus Areas

  • Wills & Trusts
  • Estate Tax Planning
  • Healthcare Directives

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about estate planning

What is estate planning?

Estate planning arranges for the management and distribution of your assets during your lifetime and after death.

  • Creates legal documents to carry out your wishes
  • Includes healthcare directives and financial powers of attorney
  • Helps minimize court involvement and delay
  • Addresses both simple and complex financial situations

Do I need a will if I have a trust?

Yes, you need a “pour-over will” even with a trust to ensure complete and efficient operation of your trust over your assets.

  • Works together with your trust, not as a replacement
  • Allows for transfers of any forgotten assets into your trust after death
  • Names guardians for minor children

What is the difference between a revocable and irrevocable trust?

Revocable trusts can be changed during your lifetime, while irrevocable trusts, once created, are much more difficult to revise.

  • Revocable trusts offer flexibility and control during your lifetime
  • Irrevocable trusts provide tax advantages and asset protection
  • Both avoid probate court proceedings
  • Each serves different estate planning goals
  • Choice depends on your specific financial situation

When should I update my estate plan?

Review and update your estate plan every two years and after major life events like marriage, divorce, births, deaths, moving to a different state, or significant asset changes.

  • Review every 2 years even without major changes
  • Marriage or divorce requires immediate updates
  • Birth or adoption of children requires guardian designations and provisions for minor children
  • Death of beneficiaries or named agents requires new appointments

What happens if I die without an estate plan in Oregon?

Oregon’s intestacy laws determine asset distribution, which may not match your wishes and can create unnecessary complications.

  • State law decides who inherits your property
  • In situations requiring probate, a court appoints someone to manage your estate
  • The process can take longer and cost more
  • Family disputes become more likely without clear instructions

Can I do estate planning if I own property in multiple states?

Yes, but multi-state property ownership requires careful coordination to avoid probate in multiple jurisdictions.

  • Oregon estate planning documents can handle most assets
  • Without planning, out-of-state real estate may require an ancillary probate
  • Trusts holding out-of-state real property can eliminate multi-state probate issues
  • Professional guidance prevents costly complications

Work with experienced attorneys who understand your needs. Contact Harris & Bowker LLP today for sophisticated legal counsel.

Schedule a Consultation (503) 293-0073