Estate planning is seldom a happy topic. It’s not pleasant to contemplate ones’ death in California, or any other state for that matter, and it’s good to keep in mind that one can’t foresee becoming incapacitated. Planning for such an eventuality can make life easier for family and loved ones, and trust preparation can clarify one’s wishes for such an eventuality.
A trust enables a person to designate who will govern one’s affairs and make decisions should the author of the trust become incapacitated and unable to do so. Life is unpredictable, but knowing that a person has provided for such eventualities as an accident or illness can bring peace of mind. A trust can also help ensure that a person’s final wishes are carried out and can facilitate that process.
Trusts can have other benefits as well. When children are young, trusts can be established for their care until they reach adulthood. College education is also something that can be designated in a trust. If a family has a disabled child or a child who is not fiscally responsible, it can also be used to address that issue. Asset distribution can also come under a trust.
A person in California who is considering trust preparation or estate planning would benefit from speaking with an experienced estate planning attorney. There are many facets to estate planning, and a knowledgeable lawyer can review the client’s situation and advise him or her on what features to consider. A lawyer can look at the big picture and help to ensure that all contingencies are accounted for.
