A will is a written set of instructions that explains how you want your property distributed after your death. Creating a will allows you to decide who will manage your money and other property after you die and how it will be distributed. It also communicates your wishes about the care of your children, if they are minors or are disabled. Another…
Read More
There are many factors that will go into a family’s decision to adopt a child. One important consideration will be a financial one: how much will it cost to adopt? There are several different methods of adoption available in Oregon, each of which involves different costs and expenses. Whether you choose an agency adoption, an independent adoption…
Read More
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month. For parents and caregivers who are raising a child with Down syndrome or other special needs, it is important to start thinking about what happens when your child becomes an adult. Fortunately, many adults with Down syndrome are able to live full, meaningful lives and, with some support, they are quite capa…
Read More
If you are concerned about the well-being of a grandchild, there are options you may be able to pursue as a grandparent. While Oregon does not have a law that is specific to grandparents rights, there are laws that allow third parties (including grandparents, foster parents, stepparents, or other relatives) to ask the court for visitation or custod…
Read More
At Litowich Law, we know many Oregon parents rely on child support to help their families survive and thrive. Receiving regular payments from your child’s other parent to help pay for food, housing, clothing, medical care, day care, and other costs, can make a profound difference in your family’s safety, security, peace of mind, and happiness.…
Read More
I’ve had many questions recently about how the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting adoptions in Oregon. For the most part, and largely dependent on what county you reside in, adoptions are proceeding as usual. If you are thinking about starting an adoption and have paused because of the pandemic, I recommend you speak with an attorney about your speci…
Read More
There are many benefits to becoming an adoptive parent. From providing a loving, stable home to children who need them to allowing couples and single adults to share their life with a child and enjoy the unique experience of parenthood. Adopting a child will be a rewarding and life-changing event for all involved. If you have made the decision to a…
Read More
The outbreak of COVID-19 has left many of us feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Some Oregonians may have found themselves contemplating their own mortality. You may also be concerned about the well-being of an elderly or vulnerable loved one. Considering your estate planning needs and goals can give you peace of mind during these uncertain times. Fr…
Read More
In an effort to target guardianship abuses, a bill is under consideration in the U.S. House of Representatives called the “Guardianship Accountability Act.” Introduced last summer by Democratic Representative Darren Soto, the bill (H.R. 4174) seeks to help states improve guardianship oversight and data collection by designating a National Onlin…
Read More
If you have an elderly relative who needs help making decisions, you may want to consider becoming a guardian. A successful guardianship arrangement can be beneficial to all involved. When there is a trusted person at the helm, who truly acts in the best interests of a loved one, the loved one is well taken care of and can often thrive. Your loved…
Read More
Salem family law attorney Sarah M. Litowich is an Oregonian through and through, with roots in rural eastern Oregon and the Willamette Valley. She is grateful for these deep Oregon roots because she learned the value of hard work and building and mai… Read More