Probate and Estate Administration

The death of someone close to you can be a chaotic and difficult time for those left behind. At Catalyst Law, we strive to make the process of managing your loved one’s final affairs as easy as possible.

Probate & Estate Administration Guidance

Serving as a Personal Representative (also called an Executor) can feel overwhelming—especially while you are grieving. Our experienced attorneys and paralegals guide you through every phase of the Oregon probate and estate administration process, providing clarity, structure, and support from start to finish. We assist with all aspects of administration, including:

• Notifying family members, beneficiaries, and interested parties
• Preparing and filing required court documents
• Coordinating asset collection and management
• Assisting with the disposition of real property and personal belongings
• Facilitating the final distribution of assets to beneficiaries or to an ongoing trust

Probate Assets

When probate is required, we prepare and file the necessary petition with the court and guide our client through appointment as Personal Representative. Once appointed, we assist with all required procedures under Oregon law, including:

• Court filings and statutory notices
• Creditor claims and debt payment
• Required accountings and reports
• Lawful distribution of estate assets to beneficiaries

Our goal is to ensure the probate process is handled efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with all legal requirements, while minimizing unnecessary stress and delay.

Non-Probate Assets & Beneficiary Designated Property

Many assets pass outside of probate through beneficiary designations, such as:

• Retirement accounts
• Life insurance policies
• Pay-on-death and transfer-on-death accounts

Catalyst Law provides comprehensive guidance to help Personal Representatives and families identify, coordinate, and properly distribute non-probate assets, ensuring that all transfers align with the decedent’s wishes and applicable law.

Estate Tax Matters

Estate administration may involve federal or state estate tax obligations. We counsel Personal Representatives on strategies to reduce potential estate tax liability, where appropriate, and ensure required filings are handled accurately and on time.

Our services include:

• Preparing Federal and Oregon estate tax returns, when required
• Working collaboratively with CPAs and financial advisors to support compliance

Estate tax returns, if required, are generally due nine-months after the date of death.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you are serving as a Personal Representative or are a beneficiary seeking clarity, we can help you understand your duties, rights, and responsibilities and guide you through the probate process with confidence.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and receive experienced, compassionate guidance through probate and estate administration.