Probate Lawyers in Salem
Managing a Loved One’s Affairs After Death
If you’re the executor or personal representative of an estate, Johnson & Taylor can help you understand the legal responsibilities you’ve been entrusted to carry out.
We’ve been handling probate matters in Salem, Albany, and Keizer since 2012 and have earned the AVVO Client’s Choice and Client Champion awards for our client-focused approach.
We’re here to:
- Tell you whether probate or another process applies to your situation;
- Explain what needs to happen first, as well as next steps;
- Help you understand your responsibilities as a personal representative;
- Help you work through complicated estate issues; and,
- Explain fees, deadlines, and our role as your attorneys in the process.
We are a multidisciplinary firm practicing family law and estate planning in Oregon, and we represent personal representatives and beneficiaries in uncontested probate and estate administration.
We’re available for same-day and next-day appointments. Request your initial consultation by calling our firm at (971) 318-5516 today. Se habla español.
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“Debbie was respectful and prompt in all of our discussion. Recommend them to anyone needing help with probate.”- Ruben G.
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“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.
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“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.
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“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.
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“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.
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“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.
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
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.
- 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.
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 an 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.
Orderly Probate & Estate Administration
Grief can strain family relationships, and an unclear probate process can add to the pressure. Our probate lawyers help keep the process organized, so you can focus on honoring your loved one’s wishes.
We guide personal representatives through each duty on schedule and in line with Oregon law, and we help beneficiaries understand what to expect and when. Clear steps, accurate records, and steady communication give everyone involved a better view of where the estate stands as it moves toward distribution.
Other Probate & Estate Planning Matters
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