One of the most emotional — and legally complex — issues in an Oregon divorce concerns the division of retirement accounts. Whether you’re divorcing after retirement or before, these assets are subject to division if they were acquired during the course of the marriage. However, the process for dividing retirement accounts will depend on the…
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Estate planning encompasses much more than writing a will or putting your assets into trusts. It also involves planning for the event of incapacity. Importantly, an advance directive is a tool that can be used to help ensure your wishes are carried out regarding your medical treatment in the event you are unable to communicate them yourself. What i…
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There are many children who need loving homes and adoption can be a wonderful and rewarding way to grow a family. However, there can be many challenges throughout the process — and LGBTQ+ couples can often face many hurdles. If you are an LGBTQ+ couple who is looking to fulfill your dream of becoming parents through adoption, it’s essential to…
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The first thing that comes to mind for most people when it comes to estate planning is a last will and testament. However, there are also a number of other tools that can be used to carry out your objectives. A revocable living trust can be an important part of a comprehensive estate plan. Not only can it allow you to decide how your assets will be…
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Although most people know that they should have a last will and testament in place, they may not realize that a complete estate plan can include various other documents to help them accomplish their objectives. Importantly, several tools can be used to ensure your wishes are carried out after your passing and in the event of incapacity. Regardless…
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Adoption is a rewarding experience and a wonderful way to grow your family. However, it also takes planning and research, especially if you will be adopting a child with special needs. Whether you are adopting from foster care or through a private placement, it’s essential to educate yourself about what special needs means. You must also carefull…
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Adopting a child can be a rewarding and fulfilling way to grow your family. Importantly, there are several ways you can adopt a child — you can adopt from foster care, pursue the domestic adoption path, or adopt from another country. If you are considering international adoption, it’s essential to understand what the requirements are for that p…
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Much of our time is spent online — and you will likely accumulate a significant amount of digital assets during your lifetime. While you may be thinking about who will inherit your home or family heirlooms, it’s critical to be aware that digital assets must be considered just like any other type of asset when it comes to estate planning. Import…
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Custody orders aren’t necessarily set in stone. Oregon law recognizes that there may be situations in which modifying a child custody order may be in the best interests of the child. However, it’s important to understand that once an order is in effect, neither parent can simply make changes on their own accord — they must either agree to the…
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Coping with divorce stress can be a challenge — but it’s important to find ways to manage your emotions while going through the legal process of ending your marriage. There will be many emotional challenges from the time you begin the divorce process until you receive your final judgment. By finding healthy ways to deal with divorce anxiety, yo…
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Salem 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 maintaining st… Read More