Estate Planning Attorneys in Bend, OR
Estate Planning Attorneys in Bend, Oregon: A Comprehensive Guide
Updated 3/3/25
Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to secure your family’s future and ensure your assets are managed according to your wishes. Bend, Oregon, offers a variety of skilled estate planning attorneys ready to help with wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and more. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about estate planning in Bend, from understanding its importance to choosing the right attorney.
Estate planning involves creating a legally binding plan for how your assets, finances, and healthcare decisions will be managed in the event of your incapacity or passing. It ensures your loved ones are cared for and helps avoid costly legal disputes or confusion.
Key elements of estate planning include:
Wills and Trusts: Determining how your assets are distributed.
Powers of Attorney: Designating someone to make financial or medical decisions if you're unable.
Advance Directives: Outlining your preferences for healthcare decisions.
Guardianship Designations: Naming guardians for minor children.
Estate planning goes beyond wealth—it’s about providing peace of mind and clarity for your family.
Selecting the right estate planning attorney in Bend, Oregon, is crucial to ensure your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes. Here are over 20 reputable estate planning attorneys in Bend, along with their contact information and websites:
Two Spruce Law, P.C.
Specializes in estate planning, wills, trusts, and probate law with a client-centered approach.
Offers comprehensive elder law services, helping clients plan for long-term care and asset protection.
Works with families to establish revocable and irrevocable trusts, ensuring smooth wealth transfer.
Provides business succession planning for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Address: 591 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 323-2000
Website: twosprucelaw.com
Bryant, Lovlien & Jarvis, P.C.
One of Bend’s most established law firms, offering estate planning, real estate law, and business law services.
Assists clients with wills, trusts, power of attorney, and probate administration.
Provides legal guidance for high-net-worth individuals seeking asset protection strategies.
Helps families avoid probate through proper estate structuring and succession planning.
Address: 591 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 382-4331
Website: bljlawyers.com
Hurley Re, P.C.
Offers a full range of estate planning services, including tax-efficient trusts and guardianship planning.
Specializes in complex estate planning strategies for business owners, investors, and retirees.
Provides probate and trust administration, ensuring smooth asset distribution.
Personalized estate plans tailored to clients' needs, including special needs trusts.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 317-5505
Website: hurley-re.com
Law Office of Paul Heatherman, P.C.
Focuses on estate planning, real estate law, and business law.
Offers trust creation, asset protection, and estate tax minimization strategies.
Represents clients in probate and trust litigation, ensuring fair estate settlements.
Works closely with clients to create long-term financial and estate strategies.
Address: 250 NW Franklin Ave, Bend, OR 97701
Phone: (541) 389-1010
Website: bendattorneys.com
MGM Law Firm, LLC
Specializes in wills, trusts, and estate tax planning.
Provides business succession planning for small business owners.
Assists with elder law and Medicaid planning for long-term care.
Offers guidance on charitable giving strategies to minimize tax burdens.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 233-7441
Website: mgmlawfirm.net
De Alicante Law Group
Focuses on estate planning, business law, and probate administration.
Helps clients with wills, power of attorney, and healthcare directives.
Provides customized estate solutions for families with unique needs.
Experienced in real estate and asset protection law.
Address: 19570 Amber Meadow Dr, Suite 140, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 390-8961
Website: dealicante.com
J Mishkin Law
Specializes in wealth preservation and advanced estate planning.
Assists with trusts, business succession planning, and tax planning.
Works with high-net-worth clients to develop strategic estate transfer plans.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (503) 274-7849
Website: jmishkinlaw.com
Estana Law Group
Provides estate planning, probate, and elder law services.
Focuses on revocable and irrevocable trusts to secure family wealth.
Assists with Medicaid planning to ensure proper long-term care funding.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 241-6657
Website: estanalaw.com
Dorsay & Easton LLP
Based in Portland but serves Central Oregon with estate planning, probate, and business law services.
Specializes in trusts, estate tax planning, and high-net-worth estate strategies.
Offers guidance on charitable estate planning and philanthropic giving.
Address: 1 SW Columbia St, Suite 440, Portland, OR 97258
Phone: (503) 241-7400
Website: dorsayindiana.com
Stahancyk, Kent & Hook P.C.
A full-service firm offering estate planning, family law, and business law.
Experienced in probate litigation and trust administration.
Helps families establish guardianships and conservatorships.
Address: 450 SW Powerhouse Dr, Suite 400, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 318-9115
Website: stahancyk.com
Eager Law PC
Specializes in estate planning, wills, and elder law.
Provides asset protection strategies to safeguard wealth.
Helps clients navigate probate and estate administration.
Address: 960 SW Disk Dr, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 323-8760
Website: eagerlawpc.com
Francis Hansen & Martin LLP
Experienced in estate planning, business law, and real estate law.
Provides comprehensive probate services to settle estates efficiently.
Assists clients in creating revocable trusts for tax-efficient wealth transfers.
Address: 1148 NW Hill St, Bend, OR 97703
Phone: (541) 389-5010
Website: francishansen.com
Carnahan Law Office
Focuses on estate planning and real estate law.
Specializes in trust formation and will preparation.
Assists with probate and asset distribution.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 389-6020
Website: carnahanlawbend.com
Hurley Law
Provides estate planning, trust administration, and business succession planning.
Specializes in elder law, helping clients plan for long-term care and Medicaid eligibility.
Experienced in probate litigation to resolve estate disputes.
Offers personalized wealth protection strategies to minimize tax burdens.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 317-5505
Website: hurleylaw.com
The Law Office of Angela Lee
Focuses on estate planning, guardianships, and special needs trusts.
Helps families draft comprehensive wills, power of attorney, and healthcare directives.
Provides legal support for probate and trust administration.
Works closely with clients to ensure their estate plans align with their long-term goals.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 306-6587
Website: angelaleelaw.com
Bend Law Group
Provides estate planning, business law, and asset protection services.
Specializes in wills, trusts, and probate administration.
Offers estate planning solutions tailored to business owners and entrepreneurs.
Assists clients in reducing estate taxes through strategic planning.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 550-7750
Website: bendlawgroup.com
The Law Office of Rick J. Pedersen
Experienced in estate planning, probate, and elder law.
Assists with creating trusts, wills, and durable power of attorney.
Provides guidance on minimizing estate taxes and protecting family assets.
Works with clients to ensure their wishes are legally documented and enforceable.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 389-1280
Website: rickpedersenlaw.com
The Law Office of Karen M. Wilson
Specializes in estate planning, asset protection, and business succession planning.
Helps clients draft wills, set up trusts, and manage probate.
Provides legal counsel for real estate and family law matters.
Offers estate strategies that help minimize tax liability and streamline inheritance planning.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 389-5010
Website: karenwilsonlaw.com
The Law Office of Jeffrey D. Munns
Offers estate planning, probate law, and elder care legal services.
Works with clients to establish wills, trusts, and advance directives.
Provides guidance on long-term care planning and Medicaid eligibility.
Assists with estate administration and probate litigation when disputes arise.
Address: 747 SW Mill View Way, Bend, OR 97702
Phone: (541) 389-5010
Website: jeffmunnslaw.com
More to Know About Estate Planning in Bend, Oregon
Estate planning is more than just drafting a will—it’s about creating a comprehensive strategy to protect your family and assets, both now and in the future. In Bend, with its growing community and unique lifestyle, many residents incorporate specific considerations like second homes, recreational properties, or outdoor equipment into their estate plans. Including these items ensures they are distributed as intended, preserving cherished memories and avoiding potential disputes among heirs. Additionally, with Oregon’s specific estate tax laws, careful planning can help minimize the tax burden on your beneficiaries.
Another important aspect of estate planning is addressing digital assets. With the increasing prevalence of online accounts, cryptocurrencies, and digital portfolios, ensuring these are part of your plan is essential. Estate planning attorneys in Bend can help you outline how these assets should be managed, accessed, or distributed. This forward-thinking approach not only protects your financial interests but also provides peace of mind knowing your legacy is well taken care of in the modern age.
1. Common Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most well-intentioned estate plans can fall short due to avoidable mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to steer clear of them:
Failing to Update Your Plan: Major life events like marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or acquiring new assets should trigger updates to your estate plan.
Not Funding a Trust: If you set up a trust but don’t transfer assets into it, it won’t serve its purpose.
Overlooking Tax Implications: Failing to account for Oregon’s estate tax, which applies to estates over $1 million, can lead to unexpected costs for your heirs.
Ignoring Digital Assets: Without clear instructions, your family might struggle to access online accounts, cryptocurrency, or other digital holdings.
Tip: Work with an experienced estate planning attorney to ensure your plan remains thorough and up-to-date.
2. Special Considerations for Bend Residents
Living in Bend comes with unique estate planning needs:
High-Value Real Estate: The area’s booming housing market often means estates include high-value homes or vacation properties. Proper planning ensures these assets are distributed without excessive tax burdens.
Outdoor Assets: Many Bend residents own outdoor equipment like RVs, ATVs, or boats, which should be included in the plan to avoid disputes.
Sustainability Interests: For those committed to conservation, consider options like donating land for preservation or setting up eco-friendly burial arrangements.
Tip: Include these specifics in your estate plan to align with your lifestyle and values.
3. Estate Planning for Business Owners
Small business owners in Bend face additional complexities in estate planning.
Succession Planning: Ensure your business transitions smoothly by designating a successor or outlining a buy-sell agreement.
Continuity Plans: Protect your business operations with strategies to maintain cash flow during probate or transitions.
Tax Efficiency: Work with professionals to minimize the impact of estate and inheritance taxes on your business assets.
Tip: An estate planning attorney can help align your business and personal goals.
4. How Estate Planning Protects Minor Children
If you have young children, estate planning is essential to safeguard their future.
Guardianship Designations: Clearly name who will care for your children if you’re no longer able.
Trusts for Minors: Set up trusts to manage inheritance until your children reach a specified age or milestone.
Education Funds: Include plans for funding college or other educational needs.
Tip: Communicate your plans with the designated guardians to ensure they are prepared.
5. Charitable Giving in Estate Planning
For Bend’s philanthropic residents, estate planning provides opportunities to leave a lasting legacy.
Charitable Trusts: Use these to allocate funds to causes you care about while potentially reducing estate taxes.
Bequests in Wills: Specify organizations or causes in your will to receive donations.
Donor-Advised Funds: Set up funds that your heirs can manage, continuing your tradition of giving.
Tip: Discuss your charitable goals with an attorney to ensure they’re legally binding.
6. What to Bring to Your First Meeting
To make the most of your initial consultation with an estate planning attorney, come prepared:
Asset List: Include real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal property.
Beneficiary Information: Names and contact details of those you wish to include.
Existing Documents: Bring any wills, trusts, or powers of attorney you’ve created.
Debt Information: Include mortgages, loans, and other financial obligations.
Business Details: If you own a business, bring relevant documents like ownership agreements.
Tip: A prepared list helps your attorney create a comprehensive plan quickly and accurately.
7. Frequently Overlooked Assets in Estate Plans
Some assets are often forgotten but should be included in your estate plan:
Pets: Specify a guardian for your pets and funds for their care.
Digital Accounts: Include login information for banking, social media, and subscriptions.
Sentimental Items: Create a list of heirlooms or keepsakes and designate recipients.
Memberships and Subscriptions: Detail how these should be canceled or transferred.
Tip: An attorney can help you account for all assets to avoid leaving anything unaddressed.
Explore other related local services:
Professional tax advisors can assist with tax planning strategies that complement your estate planning efforts.
Accurate financial records are essential for effective estate planning.
If you own a business, digital marketing professionals can help increase its value, which is a crucial aspect of your estate.
Planning for your children's education expenses is an important component of estate planning.
Strong family relationships can influence decisions in your estate plan.
Maintaining your health ensures you can actively participate in planning your estate.
FAQs About Estate Planning in Bend, Oregon
What is estate planning?
Estate planning is the process of organizing your assets and making legal arrangements for their management or distribution after your death. It includes creating documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.
Why is estate planning important?
Estate planning ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes, minimizes tax burdens, and provides clarity for your family during difficult times. It also allows you to appoint guardians for minor children and specify healthcare preferences.
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will outlines your wishes for asset distribution and guardianship after your death. A trust, on the other hand, is a legal arrangement that can manage your assets during your lifetime and after your passing, often avoiding probate.
Do I need an estate planning attorney?
Yes, an estate planning attorney ensures your documents comply with state laws and are legally enforceable. They provide guidance on complex issues like tax strategies and trust formation.
How often should I update my estate plan?
It’s recommended to review your estate plan every 3–5 years or after major life events like marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant changes in assets.
Is estate planning only for wealthy individuals?
No, estate planning is for everyone. It helps ensure your assets, no matter their value, are distributed according to your wishes and protects your loved ones.
What documents are typically included in an estate plan?
An estate plan often includes a will, trust, power of attorney, healthcare directive, and sometimes letters of instruction or beneficiary designations.
Can I avoid probate with a trust?
Yes, certain types of trusts, like revocable living trusts, allow you to avoid probate, which can save time and money for your heirs.
Are estate planning documents valid in all states?
Generally, yes, but state-specific laws may impact certain provisions. It’s a good idea to consult an attorney if you’ve moved to a new state.
How much does estate planning cost in Bend?
Costs vary depending on complexity. A simple will might cost a few hundred dollars, while comprehensive estate plans with trusts and advanced tax planning can range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more.
What happens if I don’t have an estate plan?
If you pass away without a plan, your estate will be distributed according to Oregon’s intestacy laws, which may not align with your preferences.
Why You Need to Hire an Estate Planning Attorney in Bend, Oregon
Estate planning is more than just drafting a will—it's about ensuring that your assets, family, and legacy are protected in the event of incapacity or death. In Bend, Oregon, where residents often have diverse assets like real estate, small businesses, and retirement savings, hiring an estate planning attorney is essential for creating a comprehensive plan tailored to your unique situation.
1. Local Expertise and Compliance with Oregon Laws
Estate planning laws vary by state, and Oregon has its own specific regulations regarding probate, inheritance taxes, and healthcare directives. A Bend-based estate planning attorney understands these laws and ensures your documents comply, avoiding potential legal challenges. Whether you need a will, trust, power of attorney, or advance directive, their local knowledge guarantees your plan is legally sound.
2. Protecting Your Assets and Family
An estate planning attorney can help protect your family’s future by:
Drafting wills and trusts to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
Setting up guardianship for minor children or dependents.
Creating tax-efficient strategies to minimize estate and inheritance taxes.
Safeguarding assets from creditors or legal disputes through proper planning.
3. Navigating Complex Family Dynamics
In families with blended relationships, estranged members, or special needs dependents, estate planning can become complicated. A skilled attorney in Bend can mediate these complexities, ensuring equitable solutions that reduce potential conflicts among heirs.
4. Avoiding Probate Hassles
Probate can be a lengthy, costly, and public process in Oregon. A well-structured estate plan, including living trusts and beneficiary designations, can help your heirs avoid probate, saving them time, money, and stress.
5. Planning for Incapacity
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you pass away—it also includes preparing for unforeseen events. An attorney can draft:
Durable Power of Attorney: Designates someone to manage your finances if you’re incapacitated.
Advance Healthcare Directive: Ensures your medical preferences are followed in emergencies.
6. Keeping Your Plan Current
An estate planning attorney can help you update your plan to reflect life changes such as marriage, divorce, having children, or acquiring significant assets. They ensure your estate plan evolves alongside your circumstances.
7. Peace of Mind
Perhaps the most significant reason to hire an estate planning attorney in Bend is peace of mind. Knowing that your loved ones are cared for, your assets are secure, and your wishes will be honored allows you to focus on enjoying life in beautiful Central Oregon without uncertainty about the future.
Hiring a local estate planning attorney is an investment in your family's future. Their expertise ensures your plan is robust, compliant with Oregon laws, and capable of protecting what matters most to you.