probate administration

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process that takes place with the court after someone’s death and its main purpose is to transfer ownership of your assets when they do not transfer automatically by operation of law or by the designation of a beneficiary. However, probates also make sure that all your assets are identified and distributed as you requested in your estate planning documents and it is the process in which your debts are paid after you are gone as well. Probates can be easier and cheaper to administer if you have planned ahead with proper estate planning.

Can Probate Be Avoided?

Probate can be avoided all together in certain situations. Establishing an effective trust, making beneficiary designations for assets when that option is available and holding assets jointly with a spouse all help avoid probate after your death.

Should I Hire a Probate Attorney?

Probate is a court proceeding which is very particular and driven by Oregon law. There is always a person appointed to administer the probate on behalf of the deceased person. This person is now called a personal representative but was commonly called an executor or executrix before. If this person does not administer the probate precisely in line with the law, they can be exposed to personal liability for their mistakes and can greatly increase the time and money it takes to distribute your assets to your heirs and beneficiaries. A probate attorney can guide and assist a personal representative in the process to avoid these undesirable outcomes.

client testimonials

"When my wife and I realized it would be smart to have our estate planning established, we weren't exactly sure how the process worked but we knew we should start with a lawyer. Luckily we found Collin because he walked us through every step and did a great job of explaining things. Thanks Collin!"
Adam and Vanessa K., Bend, OR
"After our first child was born my spouse and I had the hard conversation about considering the future wellbeing of our daughter and any other children. It’s a hard conversation to contemplate and so we sought out assistance for an estate plan. Collin is caring, considerate and was patient with our questions and needs. His guidance and counsel were greatly appreciated and we find comfort knowing that our children's futures are aligned with our wishes."
James and Whitney C., Eugene, OR
"I am from Hawaii and I worked with Collin on a probate matter in Oregon for my in-laws. Collin was very supportive, always in contact with us, easy to work with, and had very helpful, clear and understandable explanations. I highly recommend him and I would use him again."
Ursula M., Lahaina, Maui, HI.
"I have worked with Collin Edmonds regarding being my son's guardian and conservator. I am well pleased with his work. He is very professional and works with you. He keeps me informed at all times and I will continue using him in the future for all my son's needs. I'm so glad to have Collin, you will be too! Thank you again for all you have done!"
Lynne M., Prineville, OR.
"I have been a client of Collin's for over a year. I am 74 years old and he has treated me so kindly and worked so hard to take care of me. When my abusive daughter and her husband tried to fight restraining orders we got against them we had to do a three-day trial to keep them in place and Collin won! I am also disabled and don't walk so well and when I got COVID he called me to see how I was doing and told me he was worried about me! He is a wonderful lawyer and a wonderful person. I feel blessed that I found him!"
Dawn S., Redmond, OR.
"I am a professional fiduciary in Central Oregon and have been working in the legal community here for over 28 years. I have worked with Collin on several probate and guardianship/conservatorship matters. He is always responsive to my questions and highly effective in getting the results I need for my business. He is also just an all-around good person! I highly recommend him for his legal services!"
Kate C., Owner, Ponderosa Fiduciary Services, LLC, Redmond, OR.
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    Speak to Collin directly about your legal issues. Call today for a free consultation.
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