State probate guide · Oregon
How probate works in Oregon.
Oregon uses the term personal representative for the person appointed to administer an estate. A full probate generally moves from appointment and notice through asset administration, creditor resolution, accounting, distribution, and discharge.
The administration process
From appointment to distribution.
- 01
Open the estate
A petition asks the circuit court to admit the will, if any, and appoint a personal representative.
- 02
Give notice
Required notices are sent and published so heirs, interested people, and creditors can respond.
- 03
Inventory and protect assets
The representative identifies, values, secures, and manages estate property.
- 04
Resolve claims and taxes
Valid expenses, creditor claims, and tax obligations are addressed before final distribution.
- 05
Account, distribute, and close
The representative reports the administration, seeks authority to distribute, and requests discharge.
Estate representative compensation
Oregon has a statutory commission schedule.
Unless the will provides otherwise or the court approves a different arrangement, ORS 116.173 calculates compensation on property subject to the court’s jurisdiction.
- The statute also provides 1% on certain property reportable for estate-tax purposes but outside the court’s jurisdiction, excluding life insurance proceeds.
- The court may allow additional just and reasonable compensation for extraordinary or unusual services.
- The final amount depends on the assets included in the statutory calculation, the will, court orders, and the work required.
Official references
Read the source material.
This page is a general educational overview, not legal advice or a fee quote. Court procedure, compensation, deadlines, and available options depend on the estate, governing documents, applicable law, and court approval.