Karen E. Hobson
Counsel to the Firm
HobsonK@lanepowell.com
503.778.2158
Areas of Practice
Karen Hobson focuses her practice on estate planning and administration, as well as tax planning and
business transactions. She is experienced in the preparation of wills, trusts and other estate planning
documents for high net worth individuals, and provides strategic tax and legal advice to help her
clients reach their business goals. Karen regularly assists clients in the creation and development
of estate plans through the assessment of assets and goals, and understands complex tax and entity
planning including the use of grantor trusts and family limited liability companies. Karen also has
experience advising on pre-formation planning, entity formation, corporate governance, mergers and
acquisitions, contractual interpretation issues and business succession planning.
Professional Experience
Williams Kastner & Gibbs, PLLC, Associate (2011-2015)
Bullivant Houser Bailey, PC, Associate (2008-2011)
Admitted to Practice
Oregon
Washington
U.S. Tax Court
U.S. District Court, District of Oregon
Academics
New York University School of Law (LL.M., Taxation)
University of Oregon School of Law (J.D.)
Tax Law Certificate
Pro Bono Certificate
University of Wisconsin–Madison (B.A.)
Behavioral Science and Law, Psychology and Criminal Justice Certificate
Dean’s List in the College of Letters and Sciences
Practice Group and Specialty Team Memberships
Trusts and Estates
Publications
“Persistence Paid Off in Rewarding Tax Law Career,” University of Oregon School of Law, Interviewed (January 2014)
“Avoid Estate Planning Miscues,” Portland Business Journal, Quoted (March 16, 2012)
“Pro Bono Spotlight — Karen E. Hobson,” Multnomah Lawyer, Interviewed (December 2011)
Speaking Engagements
“Tips for Identifying Your Ideal Trustee (and What Can Happen If You Don’t)” and “Oregon vs. Washington — Differences in Planning and Administration,” Lane Powell Beneficiaries & Brews Seminar, Co-presenter (May 19, 2016)
“An Estate of Mind: Planning and Defending Your Financial Legacy,” Co-presenter (March 20, 2014)
“Thrive: Living the Life, Leaving the Legacy,” Co-presenter (April 26, 2012 and October 20, 2011)
“Sustainability and the Law: State and Federal Tax Incentives for Green Energy Development,” Seattle University (May 2009)
“Green Building: Advantages and Risks,” Construction Financial Management Association,
Co-presenter (April 23, 2009)
Professional and Community Activities
Estate Planning Council of Portland (2016-Present)
Board of Directors, University of Wisconsin Alumni Association, Portland Chapter (2011-Present)
Board of Directors, Multicultural Kidney Education Program (2009-2010)
Member, Oregon State Bar
Estate Planning Section
Tax Section
Bar Exam Co-Grader (2011)
Pro Bono Committee (2009-2010)
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