| Wills, Trusts, or Both? |
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We can utilize both a Last Will and Testament and a Trust Agreement for the distribution of your estate upon your death. Deciding whether a Will or a Trust best fits your needs depends on your circumstances. Some basic considerations that we can review during an initial office conference are: - Wills are always subject to probate proceedings but Trusts usually are not; - whether you have out-of-state property that may require secondary or ancillary probate proceedings in the states where the property is located; - the level of privacy you desire and whether you want court involvement and supervision during the management or distribution of assets; - Trust Agreements are usually effective immediately and Wills are effective upon your death; - whether special provisions or planning is necessary for charitable giving or special needs; - changing tax laws and their effect on estate planning; - the value of your estate and other items that are important to you. |