Trust v. Will?

People often ask about the difference between a will and a trust. 

There are numerous benefits to executing a revocable living trust as opposed to a last will and testament, in particular the following three:

1. Probate: Once property is transferred into a revocable living trust, it does not go through Probate
   
2. Privacy: Unlike a last will and testament, a revocable living trust is a private document, and is thus not published
   
3. Control and Simplification: In addition to a revocable living trust not complicating the management of your assets during your lifetime, it also simplifies the transfer of your estate to your beneficiaries upon your death 

"Pour Over" Wills?

Are you familiar with "Pour Over" wills?

If so, then you know that a “pour over” will is used in conjunction with a revocable living trust. This document is designed to “pour” anything of yours that was not placed into your revocable living trust during your lifetime into it after your death. You might think of it as a “safety net.”

Chances are, you’ll never need a "pour over" will, but if an unexpected need arises, it’s good to have.

Myths About Wills & Trusts...

There are a number of things that people often assume about wills and trusts, and sometimes these assumptions can cause problems. With this in mind, we'll begin a short series of listing some of the more common myths associated with wills and trusts.


For a start, many people think if they die without a will, everything will go to their spouse...

Well, this is not necessarily true. If you don't have a will, your estate is distributed according to the intestacy statute and in some cases, it could be divided between your spouse and your children. This issue is especially relevant if you have children from a previous marriage.