What is a Will?

A will outlines who should receive your assets when you die. If you die without a will, your property will pass via the pre-determined intestate succession rules under Oregon law. If you want to control disposition of your own assets rather than the de facto plan, you will need to ensure you have a will.

Most people have a general concept of a will. This formal document names the beneficiaries of your assets and appoints a personal representative to distribute those assets and otherwise wrap up your affairs under the close supervision of the probate court. A will depends on the court process to become fully implemented.