Portland, OR estates & probate attorney Steve Zipper talks about how you can structure your estate plan to maximize your asset protection. Asset protection is crucial for everyone, and there are two primary types that are typically addressed: litigation, in which individuals face lawsuits, and divorce, which is especially relevant at this firm due to the volume of divorce cases being handled. Over the years, it has been observed that inheritances are often at risk during divorce proceedings, with many individuals losing a significant portion—sometimes as much as half—of their inheritance in the process.

To address this issue, the team has diligently sought knowledge from leading family law experts on the most effective methods for protecting inheritances. They implement various trust planning strategies that involve establishing trusts for children when assets are passed down. These trusts are designed with specific provisions aimed at safeguarding the inheritance, particularly in the event that the children experience their own divorce in the future.