Setting up a trust can be an efficient way to shield assets, avoid probate, or keep separate property apart from marital funds. But can you establish a trust in a way that doesn’t give your spouse interest in the trust property? The short answer to “Can I set up a trust without my spouse?” is […]

A trust is a legal document whereby you transfer ownership of assets to a trust and name someone you have confidence in as the trustee. The trustee manages the trust and makes sure your assets are transferred to your named beneficiaries when you die. There are many types of trusts that serve different purposes. There […]

Creating a will or a trust is a serious matter, and choosing who you appoint to carry out your wishes (the fiduciary) is the most important estate planning decision you’ll make. When you create a will or a trust, you appoint executors, guardians, and trustees, known collectively as fiduciaries. A fiduciary performs specific duties, such […]

Trusts are typically straightforward – they are arrangements in which a third party holds assets on behalf of someone else. A special needs trust is a bit more complex. Also known as a discretionary trust, a special needs trust provides for the needs of a child or adult beneficiary who has a disability. The main […]

In order to understand what a joint will is, it’s essential to start with what a will is. A will is a legal document that sets out how you would like all of your assets and liabilities treated after you pass. It can also create a trust and name a guardian for minor children. A […]

Creating an irrevocable trust may be one of the best things you’ll do when planning your estate. A trust moves money and assets from one person (or entity) to another. This legal document allows you to state who receives your assets, and how and when they receive them. A trust can provide you and your […]

A Revocable Trust is one of many types of trusts.  Each is designed to offer something different. As tools, these legal documents help people preserve their assets in ways that meet the needs of their estates. Trusts can be broken down into two groups: Revocable Trust Irrevocable Trust A revocable trust can be “revoked” – […]

A Last Will and Testament is one of the best ways to protect your legacy. Also known simply as a will, this legal document allows you to control what happens to your property when you die. Even if you have a trust a will is still necessary to provide for a “personal representative” with powers […]

During estate planning or when you write a will, you can grant a person (fiduciary) certain responsibilities – an executor, trustees, and guardians are all examples. Fiduciaries have a significant role in the management of your estate. As such, it is important that these roles be filled by people who can manage their responsibilities so […]

Probate litigation is the process by which the probate court determines the validity of a will, evaluates the assets of an estate, determines liabilities, determines the heirs or beneficiaries and distributes property, should there be assets. Read for further information about what this process entails. The Actions of Probate Litigation When you die, and you […]