Wills and Trusts

Wills and trusts are essential legal tools to control your assets and care for loved ones after your death. A will specifies how your property and dependents are handled upon passing. A trust provides flexible management of assets during life and beyond, often avoiding probate court.

Key Features of Wills

Wills name an executor to carry out your wishes, designate guardians for minor children, and direct asset distribution. Without one, state laws decide outcomes, potentially against your intent. They require state-specific formalities like witness signatures. Service members can access free legal help for wills through military offices.

Key Features of Trusts

Trusts let you appoint a trustee to manage property for beneficiaries under set conditions, like age-based payouts. Revocable trusts allow changes while alive; irrevocable ones do not. They bypass probate, reduce delays and costs, and protect eligibility for government aid. Testamentary trusts activate via a will for minors.

Choosing the Right Option

Use a will for simple estates. Add a trust for complex needs like blended families or large assets. Many combine both. Service members, explore legal assistance for wills and trusts tailored to military life at no cost.