The number of people in the US concerned about their age and wealth has increased in recent years. This has led some people to consider building a legal trust to protect themselves from potential financial problems.
If you are thinking about creating a trust, you should seek the help of an attorney. A trust attorney can help you create trust documents, review your options for protection, and advise you on managing your assets.
In order to create a valid trust, all elements must be present: an intention to build a trust, a named trustee, and the settlor(s) who transfer property to the trust. Read everything about trust here!
What Is Trust?
A trust is a legal document allowing people to control and manage their assets while limiting their ability to access or use them. A trustee can create trust, typically a family member, trusted friend, or lawyer. The trust document establishes how the assets will be used and who will access them. When creating a trust, it is essential to consider your estate planning goals and ensure they will meet them.
What Are The Benefits Of Forming A Trust?
Forming a trust can benefit the individual, their beneficiaries, and the trust itself. Trusts can avoid probate, which can be an expensive and time-consuming process.
They also provide peace of mind for those involved, knowing that their assets will be protected and accessible in the event of their death.
Additionally, trusts offer tax benefits in many cases, including excluding certain income from taxation and receiving a larger deduction than if the assets were held directly by the individual.
Finally, trusts are often more secure than individual holdings because they are less likely to be impacted by legal disputes or bankruptcy.
What Are The Different Types Of Trust?
A few different types of trusts can be used to protect property and assets for individuals. These trusts can be either revocable or irrevocable, depending on the preferences of the trust creator.
A separate property trust is also possible, created to hold assets not associated with the individual’s primary residence. Finally, a continuing lifetime trust will continue to protect an individual’s assets after they die, typically benefiting their children or other designated beneficiaries.
Blended family trusts are one type of trust. They’re typically used to divide assets between multiple family members in case of a second marriage and the death of the first spouse. Minors’ trusts are another type of trust. They’re used to protect minors from financial harm. Lastly, charitable trusts donate money or property to a specific charity.
How Can A Trust Attorney Help You?
Hiring an attorney can make the process more manageable if you consider creating or revoking a trust. In addition, a trust attorney can help you understand state and federal laws related to trusts and can help prevent costly mistakes.
Additionally, an attorney can guide how to structure the trust to optimize its benefits for you and your beneficiaries. Finally, having an attorney on your side will help ensure that your trust is properly executed and upheld by the courts.
How Should You Select An Attorney?
When considering who to hire as your lawyer, it is essential to research and make an informed decision. The following tips will help you select the best lawyer for your needs.
- Ask around: Talk to friends, family, and experts in the field to see if they can recommend a qualified attorney.
- Consider your budget and needs: Make sure you are comfortable with the cost of the lawyer’s services before selecting them. Also, be aware of what legal services are required for your case and which ones may be more affordable, depending on your specific situation.
- Review qualifications and experience: Look for attorneys with degrees in law or similar concentrations and years of experience practicing law.
When Do You Need To Hire A Trust Lawyer?
- You want your minor kids to be taken care of
- You are at high risk of lawsuits
- You want to lower your estate taxes
- You want the beneficiary to receive their inheritance on your prescribed time
- You have considerable wealth
- You don’t want your family to go through probate
Winding Up
If you need a trust lawyer, research and choose one who is well-known and experienced. You can also ask your family or friends for referrals or check online reviews to find someone you can trust. Finally, keep all your communication and records related to your trust in a safe place so that if any problems arise, you will have a solid foundation on which to build.