Keep your family out of court and your affairs private
Pass assets to your loved ones without probate, with privacy and control.
A trust is a legal arrangement in which a trustee holds assets for the benefit of the people you name. Assets properly placed in a trust during your lifetime generally do not go through probate, which means a faster, private transfer to your family and continuity if you become unable to manage your own affairs.
What it covers
Revocable living trust
You stay in control during your lifetime and can change or revoke it at any time. It helps avoid probate after your death.
Irrevocable trust
Generally cannot be changed once established, but may offer asset protection and tax advantages depending on your situation.
Trust funding
A trust only works for the assets titled in it. We guide you through retitling accounts and real estate so the plan performs as intended.
Inheritance protection
Keep a beneficiary's inheritance protected from lawsuits, divorcing spouses and estate taxes where appropriate.
A trust is worth considering if you
- Own a home, co-op or other real estate
- Want your family to avoid Surrogate's Court
- Value privacy about what you own and who receives it
- Have a beneficiary who needs protection or help managing money
- Want someone to step in seamlessly if you become incapacitated
Common questions
What is the difference between a revocable and an irrevocable trust?
A revocable trust lets you keep control of your assets and make changes during your lifetime, and it helps avoid probate after your death. An irrevocable trust generally cannot be changed once established, but it may provide asset protection and tax benefits depending on your individual situation.
Do I still need a will if I have a trust?
Yes. A short pour-over will catches anything not titled in the trust and, if you have minor children, names their guardians. The trust and will work together.
Will I lose control of my property?
With a revocable living trust, no. You are typically your own trustee, you can buy, sell and spend as before, and you can amend or revoke the trust at any time.
Often prepared together
Let's have a conversation. On me.
A complimentary Estate Planning Discovery Session helps you understand your options and decide what kind of planning fits your circumstances. A full consultation ordinarily takes about two hours; a short questionnaire and some simple homework in advance make our time together focused and productive.
The session is offered at no charge provided the advance preparation is completed and you honor your scheduled appointment.
There is no obligation to move forward with any legal services.
Call 718-529-8200