How Long Does Oregon Probate Take?
One of the first questions that families ask when they’ve lost a loved one is:
“How long is this going to take?”
It’s a reasonable question. Probate usually feels like another hurdle in already trying circumstances, and most people want to wrap everything up soon and with class — without being wrapped up in court for months.
The short version? It depends.
In Oregon, a typical probate case runs six to nine months from start to finish. Some take less time, especially if the estate has more assets than debts and is relatively straightforward. Others linger — sometimes a year or longer — if there are complications like lost papers, heir conflicts, hard-to-value assets, or if there are more debts than assets.
What determines the length?
Here are some of the factors that can affect how long probate lasts:
- Whether your loved one had a valid will.
- How organized the financial records are.
- How quickly the court processes forms – each county operates at its own pace.
- Whether there are any family or creditor disputes.
- Whether there are any unexpected legal issues (e.g., claims against the estate).
- Whether there are complicated assets, such as a business that needs to be wound down.
Even something ordinary — such as being delayed waiting for a death certificate or missing account information — can slow things down.
The good news: You don’t have to go it alone.
At Kehoe Moneyhun Law, LLC, we’ve helped many Oregon families move through with more confidence and fewer delays. We know how to stay on track — from gathering papers in advance to prepare pleadings correctly the first time. And if something unforeseen comes up, we’ll help guide you through it.
Our goal isn’t just to “get it done.” It’s to take pressure off you, so that you can focus on what matters most — your people, your peace, your healing.
Every estate is different, yet with sound legal guidance, probate doesn’t have to be burdensome or time-consuming. If you don’t know where to start, we’re here to walk you through it.
No pressure. Just clear guidance, when you’re ready.