Estate Planning, Probate & Wills

Washington County Estate Planning Attorneys

At Cornerstone Law Group, our Hillsboro estate planning lawyers act as sound advisors when helping clients plan for their family’s financial future. When creating a will or trust, it is important to make sure there is no room for dispute or interpretation of your wishes among family members.

Many residents in Hillsboro and across Washington County turn to our probate attorneys for clear, step-by-step guidance through both simple and complex estate matters. Our knowledge of Oregon’s estate laws—as well as local Washington County procedures—can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth estate administration process. With decades of combined experience working with the Washington County Circuit Court and serving clients throughout the region, we are committed to providing representation tailored to the unique needs and circumstances of each client we serve. We make it our mission to keep clients well-informed regarding important deadlines and local requirements, minimizing stress and maximizing peace of mind.

Leaving important decisions to the court, or to anyone who may not understand your intentions or desires, can undermine the estate plan you have carefully designed. Regardless of the size of your estate, you should ensure your specific wishes are honored, which is why it is crucial to consult with a caring, competent attorney who truly understands Oregon and Washington County probate law.

Contact Cornerstone Law Group or call (503) 461-5005 to schedule your appointment today!

Understanding the Probate Process in Hillsboro, OR

Probate is the court-supervised legal process that occurs after someone passes away, ensuring the correct distribution of assets and payment of debts from the decedent's estate. In Hillsboro and throughout Washington County, probate cases are filed with the Washington County Circuit Court, where established local procedures are designed to protect both heirs and creditors. The process begins with the court’s appointment of a personal representative, also known as an executor, who is responsible for managing the estate's tasks—including collecting assets, notifying interested parties, settling claims, and distributing property according to the will or Oregon law if there is no will.

At Cornerstone Law Group, our probate attorneys in Hillsboro have decades of combined experience managing probate administration in Washington County. We bring a unique understanding of Oregon’s probate code and local court protocols, allowing us to skillfully guide clients from initial petition to final accounting. When questions or conflicts arise—such as will validity or creditor disputes—our attorneys offer practical, informed solutions to help clients navigate complex situations efficiently. Whether you are administering a modest estate or handling extensive local assets, we tailor our approach to the specific needs of each family, helping to minimize delays and reduce the burdens associated with probate in Hillsboro.

Estate Planning Matters We Handle

Our firm has helped many families plan for their futures over the last 30 years, and we can help you create:

• An estate plan
• Will
• Trust
• Power of attorney
• Advanced directive
• Or any number of legal mechanisms customized to meet your needs

Whether you reside in Hillsboro, Beaverton, or other areas of Washington County, our probate attorneys and estate administration attorneys can help you develop a plan tailored to your complete circumstances. Many clients may need more than just basic wills or powers of attorney—they may require guidance on business succession, charitable giving, blended family dynamics, or special needs planning. We provide counsel on issues such as guardianship, trust administration, and Oregon advance health care directives so your wishes are both clear and enforceable under local law. By helping clients take proactive measures, we reduce the risk of future disputes and ensure the estate administration process runs smoothly for loved ones throughout Washington County and the greater Hillsboro area.

Role of an Estate Administration Attorney & Local Considerations

Administering an estate in Hillsboro or the greater Washington County area involves managing financial, legal, and procedural responsibilities that can quickly become overwhelming for family members. An estate administration attorney in Hillsboro from Cornerstone Law Group is equipped to interpret complex Oregon probate statutes and to help personal representatives comply with Washington County’s unique court expectations—such as timely filings, mandatory accountings, and required legal notices. Our attorneys keep you informed at every step, outlining your obligations and options so you always know what lies ahead in the estate administration process.

Washington County estate administration lawyers often advise on local property transfers, navigate relationships with county agencies, and help with Hillsboro-specific assets like agricultural holdings or family businesses. Our attorneys are familiar with rules and regulations governing local real estate, facilitating ownership changes and resolving complications related to zoning or property taxes. We offer practical, comprehensive advice centered on your family’s priorities, making certain all court requirements are met and your loved one’s intentions are honored.

Step-by-Step Will Planning

One of the biggest pitfalls people encounter during estate planning is failing to address all assets or draft binding documents. It is essential that your estate plan is thorough—providing clear instructions for asset distribution so that nothing is left up for dispute or confusion among beneficiaries.

The probate process in Washington County includes preparing detailed filings and following local court rules and deadlines. Our probate lawyers in Hillsboro collaborate with clients to inventory assets, clarify beneficiaries, and address possible tax considerations that may affect estate administration. We provide strategic advice to help avoid unnecessary probate delays and, where possible, streamline asset transfers. By documenting the entirety of your estate plan and providing individualized advice, we ensure your wishes are preserved and your family is protected within the framework of Oregon’s legal system and local court expectations.

Leaving assets unaccounted for in your will or trust can cause intra-family disputes or even jeopardize carefully considered provisions. Taking a comprehensive approach with the help of a knowledgeable probate attorney in Washington County is vital for a smooth estate process.

When helping you plan your estate, we will make sure you consider the following factors as necessary:

How Cornerstone Law Group Can Help

If you have thoughts about how to provide for your family or support charitable causes after incapacity or death, our Washington County estate planning lawyers can help. Our approachable, direct process can reassure you and help you feel confident about your financial legacy and estate plan.

As trusted probate attorneys in Hillsboro, we guide families through each stage of the estate administration process, from filing initial petitions with the Washington County Circuit Court to distributing assets according to your loved one’s wishes. We work directly with personal representatives and beneficiaries, clearly explaining legal concepts and helping to meet every deadline. Thanks to our understanding of local statutes and court practices, we proactively identify and address regional challenges unique to Oregon and Washington County. Whether you require assistance for standard estate administration or more complex probate litigation, Cornerstone Law Group stands ready to deliver reliable, clear guidance and strong representation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Probate & Estate Administration

How long does the probate process take in Washington County?

The length of probate administration in Washington County depends on the size and complexity of the estate, as well as whether any disputes arise during the process. Simple estates in Hillsboro, without significant assets or debts, may be completed within six months from filing to final distribution. More complex cases—such as those involving contested wills, business interests, or multiple real estate holdings—can extend for a year or longer. The Washington County Circuit Court sets clear timelines for steps such as personal representative appointment, providing notice to interested parties, and case closure. Working with an experienced probate attorney in Hillsboro can be instrumental in maintaining momentum, minimizing avoidable delays, and staying compliant with all court requirements.

What types of assets go through probate in Oregon?

In Oregon, assets owned solely in the decedent’s name that lack designated beneficiaries are generally subject to probate. This commonly encompasses local real estate, personal vehicles, bank accounts, and investment holdings. Assets such as life insurance or retirement accounts with specified beneficiaries, as well as jointly titled property, usually avoid probate. For families in Hillsboro and Washington County, special consideration should be given to the transfer and titling of real property, as the probate court may enforce specific procedures related to homestead rights, tax clearance, or local title requirements. Our probate lawyers in Washington County assist with clarifying which estate assets are subject to probate and help clients develop a strategic estate plan that may limit the need for court involvement when possible.

When is a small estate affidavit an option in Hillsboro?

Oregon’s small estate affidavit is available for estates below the statutory threshold—currently $275,000, including up to $200,000 in real property and $75,000 in personal property. In Hillsboro and throughout Washington County, this option can significantly expedite the asset transfer process and minimize court oversight, provided that legal notice is given to potential creditors and all other statutory requirements are met. Probate attorneys in Washington County can assist by preparing and filing the proper documentation with the local circuit court office, ensuring all interested parties are notified and the process is completed efficiently. Our team thoroughly evaluates your unique situation to determine eligibility and guide you through each step with clear, reliable advice.

Contact Cornerstone Law Group or call (503) 461-5005 to schedule your estate planning consultation.