Bend, Oregon Probate Counselor
Attorney Jonathan G. Basham has been practicing law for over 20 years. Call on him to help when you are faced with the need to probate a loved one's estate.
When a loved one dies, there are assets to be marshaled and debts to be paid. The decedents may anticipate receiving distributions of money. The probate court system was established to administer these matters.
The Probate Procedure
The first step is to open a probate proceeding in the county court. The person named in the will, or a close relative, is appointed personal representative. Mr. Basham oversees the preparation of the papers, and their filing. Next, the will (if there is one) must be admitted to probate.
In most estates, the process runs smoothly. The assets are gathered, the debts (including any federal estate taxes) are paid, the remaining assets are distributed to the people or charities named in the will, and proceeding is closed.
However, not all probate proceedings run so smoothly. There may be challenges to the will, brought by those who stand to gain more if the estate passes by intestacy. There may be creditors' claims that result in litigation. Whatever arises in the course of your probate proceeding, Mr. Basham will see to it that it is dealt with efficiently.
Avoiding Probate
In many situations, it makes sense to avoid probate. Probate involves costs, expenses and attorney fees. It is, to some extent, a public process. This inconvenience and expense of probate can be avoided by placing the funds into a trust.
When you need a lawyer to help you with an estate plan, contact attorney Jonathan G. Basham.
Jonathan G. Basham
745 Northwest Mount Washington Drive
Suite 308
Bend, OR 97701-1576
Phone: 541-385-0914
Fax: 541-385-0988
E-mail