Business Details
Trusted Estate Planning & Probate Services in Medford
Penny Lee Austin is a dedicated legal professional with over 30 years of experience in estate planning, probate, trusts, and bankruptcy. Graduating from Willamette University with a Juris Doctor in 1980, she has built a reputation for providing personalized, client-focused legal solutions. Her practice emphasizes simplifying complex legal processes to help clients secure their financial and familial futures.A former President of the Jackson County Bar Association and chair of the Oregon State Bar's Debtor/Creditor Executive Committee, she combines deep legal expertise with community engagement. Beyond law, she actively supports Southern Oregon's arts scene as a performing musician and nonprofit advocate, ensuring her practice reflects both professional excellence and civic commitment.
Services
Estate Planning
Probate Services
Trust Administration
Will Preparation
Bankruptcy Assistance
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of specialized experience in estate planning and probate law
- Former President of Jackson County Bar Association and OSB committee leader
- Personalized approach prioritizing client education and comfort
- Active community involvement in legal and arts organizations
- Proven track record in simplifying complex legal processes
Services
Estate Planning
Estate planning involves creating legal documents to manage and distribute assets after death. We help clients establish wills, trusts, and power of attorney to ensure their wishes are honored. Our approach focuses on minimizing legal complexities for families while addressing tax implications and long-term care provisions.
Probate Services
Probate services guide executors through court processes for validating wills and distributing assets. We assist with inventorying estates, settling debts, and transferring property ownership. Our goal is to streamline probate proceedings while maintaining compliance with Oregon state laws.
Trust Administration
Trust administration involves managing assets held in living trusts after the grantor's death. We help trustees fulfill fiduciary duties, distribute assets to beneficiaries, and maintain proper documentation. Our services ensure smooth transitions without court involvement.
Will Preparation
Will preparation establishes legal directives for asset distribution and guardianship arrangements. We draft customized wills that meet state requirements while addressing unique family circumstances. Documents include provisions for personal representatives and contingency plans.
Bankruptcy Assistance
Bankruptcy assistance provides solutions for overwhelming debt through Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 filings. We evaluate financial situations, prepare necessary documentation, and represent clients in proceedings. Our approach focuses on helping individuals regain financial stability.
People
Penny Lee Austin
Attorney
Penny Lee Austin has practiced law in Oregon since 1980, specializing in estate planning and probate. A former Jackson County Bar Association President, she combines legal expertise with community service through music-related nonprofits.
Questions
What legal services do you specialize in?
We specialize in estate planning, probate, trusts, wills, and bankruptcy assistance for individuals in Southern Oregon.
How does estate planning benefit my family?
Estate planning ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes while minimizing legal complications and tax burdens for your heirs.
Can trusts help avoid probate?
Properly funded revocable living trusts allow asset distribution without probate court involvement, maintaining privacy and efficiency.
What happens if I don't create a will?
Without a will, Oregon's intestacy laws determine asset distribution, which may not align with your personal preferences for family members.