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James Oberholtzer

Estate planning Attorney at Portland, OR

4.9   36 reviews
  • State Years
    Washington - WA 15 years
    Oregon - OR 21 years
    Illinois - IL 43 years
    Virginia - VA 44 years
  • Licensed for 15 years
    State WA
    Acquired 2008
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 21 years
    State OR
    Acquired 2002
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 43 years
    State IL
    Acquired 1980
    Status
    Active and Authorized to Practice Law No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 44 years
    State VA
    Acquired 1979
    Status
    Associate No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Estate planning
    25%

    43 years, 500 cases

  2. Business
    20%

    43 years, 600 cases

  3. Real estate
    20%

    43 years, 300 cases

  4. Tax
    20%

    43 years, 300 cases

  5. Trusts
    15%

    43 years, 500 cases

SIMPLE - UNDERSTANDABLE SOLUTIONS TO YOUR LEGAL PROBLEMS. 42+ YEARS EXPERIENCE. CALL FOR FREE CONSULTATION

Background:  I was raised in Tucson, Arizona and Whittier, California.   I opened our Chicago, Illinois office in 1995 and the Portland, Oregon office in 2001.  Our family is 13th generation members of the Society of Friends (people known as "Quakers").  While attending Whittier High School, I was an Eagle Scout, an AFS exchange student to Malaysia and the section head for percussion for the WHS Marching Band (we marched in the 1968 Presidential Inaugural Parade in Washington, DC for Richard Nixon).

 

I enjoy playing music (piano, guitar and percussion), sailing, soccer (including futsol), T'ai Chi Chuan, hiking (I hiked up the South Sister, Oregon summit recently), skiing, snorkeling, classic languages (mostly Latin), databases (particularly Filemaker), web page design and wikis.

 

I was the president of the Arbor Parent Teacher organization for the Arbor School in Tualatin, Oregon that all three of my children attended.

Photos and videos

Contact James

James Oberholtzer
1500 SW First Avenue
Suite 800
Portland, OR, 97201
James Oberholtzer, Chartered
211 West Wacker Drive
Suite 1200
Chicago, IL, 60606
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Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  36 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by Fred | April 15, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
James is easy to talk to, and very knowledgeable.
James explained to me the nuances of trust deed issues, as well as title subtlety. I was very satisfied with the way he explained the situation from the other point of view. In my opinion, James will quickly explain the situation so that u won't waste money and effort pursuing legal action.
Posted by Christopher | December 11, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Consultation
James was very helpful and patient with me as we went over his suggested course of action pertaining to a lease payment dispute. I highly recommend talking with him.
Posted by anonymous | October 26, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great guy, very knowledgable
James took the time on short notice to answer my questions and get my moving in the right direction according to my needs. I would highly recommend giving him a call if you are in need of excellent legal services.
Posted by Thomas | August 16, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
helpful and professional
In my brief interaction with James he was extremely helpful and professional.
Posted by Jamie | July 25, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Excellent advice and generous with his time.
I’m in a really unique spot and didn’t know where to turn for help on a tax situation with the state of IL. James was incredibly helpful, genuine, and his expertise was obvious. Highly recommended.
Posted by Bobbie | February 25, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Ubertrieben der Beste! Grateful
He was an excellent communicator. He asked me pertinent questions, I had not received the title report, so no numbers to provide! Yikes. Chagrin. He was a strategist, he provided the measurable data versus the subjective and he allowed me to decide on the action. I must say I am vexed. I would love to have him represent me in court. Better though than that, he empowered me by discussing the pros and cons of the situation with me to be proactive with the county and my situation. I plan to research (anonymously)with the county what happens if I abandon the property? Penalties? I will contact the property dept. ,at the county and ask them, what forms do I need to have my cousins fill out in order to cede the property to me. I will organize a packet and keep my presentation simple. I will look up and learn what I can about the deed from 1974. I will learn all about representative Deeds. I already called the title company and ask why I was not given the order # and had them send it to me, after they provided a flimsy excuse! Thank you. You met me where I was at, and kindly enlightened me, along the way. I am going to try to have my cousins cède their share to me.
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Posted by anonymous | October 21, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Bold, direct help
I had some questions surrounding tax law and divorce. My husband has been trying to steamroll the process and James Oberholtzer gave me the tough love pep talk I really needed. During our conversation, he provided me with a few points of information that I really needed and helped me outline a plan to move forward.
Posted by Jennifer | September 16, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Knowledgable & Helpful!
James helped me with some audit questions and I'm extremely happy I gave him a call! Will be using him if I need representation. He's very easy to talk to and answers all of your questions while providing excellent legal advice and insight. I would feel very comfortable and confident with James representing me.
Posted by anonymous | August 6, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Honesty and Integrity
Mr. Oberholtzer was very helpful in providing some guidance on a tax issue that he felt could be handled on my own. He briefly outlined the process I could expect and the actions I would need to take. I appreciate the time he took to listen and understand the situation and am grateful for his honest advice.
Posted by Mu | July 28, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
James answer your call when you call and give you strategies that saves you 1000s dollars
I consulted James, He answered my call and answered my all specific questions and show me what strategies to follow. Best attorney to go with before buy anything
Posted by anonymous | May 29, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experienced and Trustworthy
We've been working with James and his team for a while now and have been very impressed. He is extremely professional, attentive and patient. He breaks down the legal mumbo-jumbo so that it is digestible. I've enjoyed not only his legal advice but some words of wisdom about life in general. He helped us to navigate the challenges legally and emotionally of transitioning a family business. His experience and knowing we have a lawyer that we can trust is worth EVERY penny. He showed us great dedication in meeting a very tight deadline, working all hours of the night...even when it was Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. We interviewed a lot of really great lawyers, but are so happy we chose to go with James and are very grateful for all that he and his team have done for us.
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Posted by anonymous | January 3, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very Helpful and Intelligent
I recently consulted with Mr. Oberholtzer regarding a tax question about my retirement account. He was extremely knowledgeable and provided different options that I could pursue. I did not feel that he was wasting my time, and I was happy with the information he provided. I would have no problem hiring him in the future.
Posted by anonymous | November 23, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Professional and helpful
I was searching for an attorney to help a friend with an estate matter. Mr. Oberholtzer was one of the few attorneys who responded to my queries. He was patient with my complicated explanation and my questions; I appreciated that very much. I also appreciated his graciousness and understanding when my friend later decided to put her plans on hold. Had she wanted to proceed, we would have hired him.
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Posted by Joe | November 6, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Helpful
Does not do conservatorship, but was super helpful pointing me in the right direction and gave me other pro tips on finding a will. This guy is smart and super nice.
Posted by Richard | May 28, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Experienced, straight forward and honest advice.
Mr. Oberholtzer provided me with some greatly needed direction and advice. I am new to the Oregon coast and am not familiar with it's history nor legal differences compared to where I am from in Arizona. I would not hesitate to use this attorney if I require his services in the future.
Posted by Angela | September 21, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Business Litigation
I work as General Counsel for a Missouri company. Mr. Oberholtzer immediately returned my call and had good knowledge of the litigation matter in a very short matter of time. He offered inciteful solutions and suggestions. He was knowledgeable of the legal community in Portland. Very helpful consultation.
Posted by Elise | July 17, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Invaluable Assistance With a Real Estate Matter
My husband and I recently consulted with James Oberholtzer concerning a dispute with a neighbor over a driveway easement and property boundary. We found Mr. Oberholtzer not only exceptionally knowledgeable and competent, but very amiable and easy to talk with. An hour's friendly and informative consultation with him sent us in the right direction in dealing with our neighbors, as well as providing us with several options, possible outcomes, and costs. The wealth of information that Mr. Oberholtzer provided us with during this first, hour-long, consultation was worth a great deal to us, yet there was no cost. We will be engaging Mr. Oberholtzer again for assistance with future real estate matters, and have every confidence in his capabilities and effectiveness.
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Posted by Avery | April 27, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great for probate help
Very easy to speak with highly recommend I wish I spoke with James earlier in the process
Posted by anonymous | March 7, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Incredibly Helpful and Honest
I consulted with Mr. Oberholtzer today regarding a pending case that my business is involved in and I must say, he was the most honest and helpful attorney I've spoken to through all of this. He took time, listened and seemed to truly care about the case. I would recommend him to any business.
Posted by Alex | November 1, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very helpful consultation
I had a concern which required a legal advice. Mr. Oberholtzer got back to me with the phone call, asked me several questions and provided extremely helpful advice on how to resolve my issue in the fastest and most correct manner. I am very pleased with his expertise and level of service.
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 175-450 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Rohlfing & Oberholtzer
  • 2000 - Present
  • President
  • James Oberholtzer, Chtd.
  • 1995 - Present
  • Income Partner
  • Cowan & Minetz
  • 1986 - 1995
  • General Counsel
  • Jewish Family & Community Service of Metro Chicago
  • 1980 - 1985
View all work experience

Education

  • DePaul University College of Law
  • LL.M - Master of Laws
  • 1985
  • Washington and Lee University
  • J.D.
  • 1979
  • Earlham College
  • A.B.
  • 1975
  • California Polythechnic University at Pomona
  • 1973
View all education

Legal Cases

  • In re: Estate of Helen Steele
  • Successful administration
  • In re: Estate of Hafeman
  • Successful administration

Associations

  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1980 - Present
  • Oregon State Bar
  • Delegate
  • 2007 - 2012
  • Chicago Hull House Social Service Agency
  • Housing Committee member
  • 1986 - 1989
  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Chair and founder of co-ed soccer league
  • 1984 - 1995
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • member refuge committee
  • 1982 - 1995
  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Chair of Child Abuse & Neglect Committee
  • 1981 - 1982
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • French

Honors and Awards

  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2020
  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2011
  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 1995

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • The Complete Trust Course
  • Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts
  • 2013
  • LawReviewCLE Seminar
  • Estate Planning
  • 2013
  • LawReview CLE Seminar
  • Estate Planning
  • 2012
  • Seminar Arbor School APT
  • Family Estate Planning
  • 2008
  • Estate Planning Seminar
  • Estate Planning for Singles
  • 2003
  • Seminar for Metropolitan Family Service
  • Estate Planning for Social Workers
  • 2002
  • Committe on Mental Health Chicago Bar Association
  • Confidentiality of Mental Health Records
  • 1985
  • National Conference
  • Confidentiality of Mental Health Records
  • 1984
  • Annual Meeting
  • Legal Liability of Clinical Social Workers
  • 1983
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (7)
Given (7)
Endorse James
Estate planning Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Oberholtzer is widely considered to be one of the best Estate Planning attorneys practicing today."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Truly excellent lawyer. Well respected in the legal community."
Business Attorney | Dec 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"When a business lawyer endorses a business lawyer he means it. The answers of Mr. Oberholtzer are consistenly, clear, accurate, analytic and customized to the needs of the Avvo asker. These are exactly the qualities that any client would be looking for in retaining legal services."
Tax Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Jim is an extremely conscientious and intelligent lawyer. We have had excellent discussions about how to approach client issues in the field of taxation. I would recommend his services without hesitation."
Business Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Jim has been a fantastic source of information for me. I have a domestic relations practice and Jim always has the answer, and usually a very common sense one, to any tax or business question that comes up in my cases."
Trusts Attorney | Apr 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer's work. He is an expert in Wills & Trusts, as well as commercial & residential real estate. I recommend Jim without hesitation."
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