Can property be transferred without probate?

Yes, in Oregon, there are several ways in which property can be transferred without going through the probate process. These options can be useful for avoiding the time and expense of probate, and they can also provide greater privacy and control over the transfer of the property.

Some of the ways in which property can be transferred without probate in Oregon include:

1.       Joint ownership: Property that is owned jointly with right of survivorship (also known as joint tenancy with right of survivorship) will automatically pass to the surviving owner(s) upon the death of one of the owners.

2.       Transfer-on-death deed: A transfer-on-death deed (also known as a TOD deed or a beneficiary deed) allows property owners to transfer ownership of their real property to one or more designated beneficiaries upon their death.

3.       Payable-on-death designations: Many financial accounts, such as bank accounts, brokerage accounts, and retirement accounts, allow the owner to designate a beneficiary who will inherit the account upon the owner's death.

4.       Trusts: Property that is held in a trust can be transferred to the beneficiaries of the trust upon the death of the trust creator (also known as the grantor or settlor) without going through probate.

It's important to note that each of these options has its own unique set of rules and requirements, and it's a good idea to consult with an attorney to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.