The answer is: it depends. Every family has different goals, assets, relationships, and concerns about privacy, cost, and long-term administration.
A will is usually less expensive to prepare and can nominate guardians, appoint a personal representative, and include trust provisions for children. It does not, however, avoid probate or provide asset management during incapacity.
A revocable living trust generally costs more to prepare, but it can help avoid probate for properly titled assets and can provide continuity if incapacity occurs during life. It may also be useful for blended families, complex property arrangements, or clients who want more private administration.
An intake appointment allows the attorney to review your assets and family goals so the planning approach can be matched to your situation.
Keep exploring this section.
What Is a Will?
Understand what a will does, what it does not do, and how it directs probate and guardianship planning.
Read moreWhat Is a Revocable Living Trust?
Learn how revocable living trusts can help with both incapacity planning and post-death administration.
Read moreEstate Planning for Parents
See why planning matters especially for parents of minor children and how guardianship and trusts fit in.
Read moreWhat Should I Expect at Estate Planning Appointments?
Understand the intake, document review, and signing stages of the estate planning process.
Read moreEstate Planning Packages
Review the typical documents included in will-based and revocable trust-based planning packages.
Read more