Do I Need a Living Trust?

When it comes to protecting your family and your assets, one of the most common questions people ask is: “Do I really need a Living Trust?” The short answer: if you want to save your loved ones from court battles, delays, and unnecessary costs, then yes — a Living Trust is one of the smartest moves you can make.

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Probate is the legal process that happens after someone passes away without a Living Trust. The court oversees the distribution of assets, paying off debts, and making sure everything is done “by the book.” Sounds simple, right? Not exactly.

Here’s the problem with probate in California (and most states):

• It’s expensive. Probate fees and attorney costs can eat up thousands of dollars.
   
• It’s time-consuming. Families often wait 9–18 months before receiving their inheritance.
   
• It’s public. Probate records are filed in court, which means anyone can see your financial and family details.
   

A Living Trust helps you avoid this messy process completely.

When you set up a Living Trust, you’re creating a private legal document that outlines who gets what, how, and when. Instead of leaving it to the courts, you stay in control.

Here are the key benefits of having a Living Trust:

• Avoids probate. Your heirs receive their inheritance faster and without costly legal battles.
   
• Keeps things private. No court filings, no public records, no strangers peeking into your -family’s business.
   
• Provides flexibility. You can update your Trust anytime as life changes (marriage, divorce, new children, new property, etc.).
   
• Protects your legacy. You decide how and when your assets are distributed — not the state of California.
   

One of the biggest misconceptions about estate planning is that it has to be expensive and complicated. That’s simply not true.

At First Call Carolyn, we meet clients conveniently over Zoom, so you don’t have to leave your home or take time off work. By keeping overhead low, we’re able to pass those savings on to you — making Living Trusts more affordable for everyday families.

If you own real estate, have children, or simply want to make sure your family avoids the headaches of probate, the answer is yes. A Living Trust isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s for anyone who wants peace of mind knowing their family is protected.

Ready to protect your legacy? Schedule your free Zoom consultation today and let’s get started on your Living Trust.  

First Call Carolyn at 909-223-6904.