Wills, Trusts, or Both?

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.