Probate Your Problems. Our Priority.

Probate Lawyers in Salem

Skilled Attorneys Guiding Our Clients Through the Probate Process in Albany & Keizer

Probate laws in Oregon can be complex, and the process involves specific legal requirements, including adhering to deadlines and filing paperwork. At Johnson & Taylor, we handle all aspects of the probate process, which helps to make sure any steps you take during estate administration are legally sound.

If you’re the executor or personal representative of an estate, your probate attorney can help you understand the significant legal responsibilities you’ve been entrusted to carry out. Having our attorneys assist you throughout the process ensures you comply with Oregon probate law and helps you avoid errors and personal liability.

Request your initial consultation by calling our firm at (971) 318-5516 today. Se habla español.

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From the beginning, the entire team has been professional, kind, and knowledgeable.
“Johnson and Taylor have been an incredible help to my wife and mother-in-law as they navigated the process of setting up a Special Needs Trust. Ryan, in particular, has been outstanding—patient, understanding, and always willing to take the time to explain every step clearly. He’s made what could have been a complicated and stressful process feel smooth and manageable. We truly appreciate the care and attention they’ve given our family, and we’re grateful to have had such a dedicated and compassionate legal team on our side.”

- Casey W.
They provided a perfect blend of professionalism and personal care.
“My experience was exceptional. Interacting with Ryan and Mayra was professional, yet very personal. They expertly guided me through the complex process of preparing a Revocable Living Trust and Power of Attorney, and more, ensuring that every detail was meticulously handled. Ryan’s deep knowledge and clear explanations made me feel confident and informed at every step. Mayra’s attention to detail and friendly demeanor made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.”

- Deb S.
Debbie with Johnson & Taylor was a pleasure to work with on closing out my dad's estate.
“She was knowledgeable, professional, & prompt in her responses...while also being personable & friendly. She made a complicated process easy to navigate. Thx Debbie!”

- Kathy L.
We could not have chosen a better firm to do our Estate Planning.
“My wife & I, recently completed our Estate Planning to protect our family and everything we have built this far. The attorneys were very professional and walked us through the process of doing the right kind of estate planning that was best for our family. I highly recommend them for your estate planning needs. Also, his assistant Debbie was Amazing. Thank you again!”

- Joaquin B.
They gave me peace of mind and clear options.
“I had no idea how to handle my father's insolvent estate after his death and I was in distress. The staff at Johnson &Taylor were compassionate to my situation and set up a consultation when no other firm would give me the time of day. It was the best money well spent.”

- Leah D.
Very professional in the handling of my mom's estate.
“Debbie was respectful and prompt in all of our discussion. Recommend them to anyone needing help with probate.”

- Ruben G.

What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process by which a person’s estate is settled after their death.

Overseen by the Oregon Circuit Court, it involves several different steps and important duties, including:

Validating a deceased person’s will (if they have one)
Appointing a personal representative for the estate if there is no will
Identifying and inventorying assets
Paying outstanding debts
Filing and paying taxes
Distributing assets to beneficiaries

Although it can take as little as five to six months to complete, depending on the complexity of the estate, probate can be time-consuming, costly, and stressful for families. Our attorneys work to make it run efficiently and effectively, and help you avoid common mistakes that delay the process.

What if My Loved One Dies Without a Will?

If a person dies without a last will and testament, the court will appoint a personal representative and distribute assets according to Oregon's laws of intestate succession. These laws dictate who inherits assets based on the deceased person’s closest living relatives.

For example, if the deceased is survived by a spouse but has no children or descendants from another relationship, the spouse inherits the entire estate. If the deceased has children from a previous relationship, the spouse inherits half of the estate, and the other half is divided among the children.

If the deceased has no surviving spouse but has children, the entire estate is divided equally among the children. If a child has predeceased the parent, their share passes to their children (grandchildren of the deceased).

Succession then passes to the deceased's parents, siblings, and more distant relatives according to Oregon law. Understanding intestate succession is vital for families navigating probate without a will.

The Simple Estate Probate Process in Oregon

As of 2025, estates valued at $275,000 or less (with no more than $200,000 being real property) in Oregon may qualify for a simplified probate process that involves a simple estate affidavit (formerly called a small estate affidavit). This method of settling an estate can help your loved ones save time and money and enable beneficiaries to receive their inheritance more quickly. Our probate attorneys are familiar with the simple estate process. We can determine whether an estate qualifies, gather required documentation, and help you file a simple estate affidavit.

Probate & Estate Administration Disputes

When disputes over an estate arise among beneficiaries or other family members, our probate lawyers can help mediate these conflicts, resolve matters in an efficient manner, and make sure the decedent’s wishes are carried out fairly. Whether you’re the personal representative of an estate or contesting a will, our experienced attorneys are well-versed in all aspects of probate litigation in Oregon.

Other Probate & Estate Planning Matters

Our probate lawyers also handle legal matters such as property transfers, contested wills, guardianships, and powers of attorney. If you believe a loved one’s will should be contested, we can assess your case and advise you of your options. We can also help transfer legal ownership of property and assist you in establishing a guardianship or a conservatorship for minors or if an adult loved one is incapacitated and unable to handle their affairs due to age or health reasons.

Why Choose Our Oregon Probate Lawyers?

Our probate attorneys have extensive experience handling estates of all sizes and complexities and provide personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs and family dynamics. They guide you through every step of the process, safeguard your interests, and facilitate a smooth and efficient resolution of your loved one’s estate. With so many details to take care of, you can trust our compassionate team to handle your probate case with the care and professionalism you and your family deserve.

For detailed information pertaining to your unique circumstances, reach out to our Salem probate lawyers at (971) 318-5516 today.

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The attorneys leading your case with experience, strategy, and a commitment to results

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Your Legacy Deserves Thoughtful Planning The right plan provides more than protection. It provides peace of mind.

Estate planning is about more than documents and legal formalities. It’s about protecting the people you love, preserving what you’ve worked hard to build, and making sure your wishes are honored. We take the time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and create a plan tailored to your family’s future so you can move forward with confidence knowing everything is in place.

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