California does not use the uniform probate code which simplifies the probate process so it may be a good idea for you to make a living trust to avoid california s complex probate process.
Living trust vs will in ca.
An overview you can t take it with you when you go while this familiar statement is true you can and should do your best to control your assets from beyond the grave.
However the two estate planning options diverge in their execution.
While both wills and living trusts establish procedures to manage and eventually distribute your assets to beneficiaries after your death.
California residents who want to plan for how their assets will be managed and distributed after their deaths can use revocable living trusts wills or both.
In your living trust you name a successor trustee who will manage just the property left through the trust.
Using an attorney means that the trust will be completed correctly but the associated fees can greatly increase the cost of creating a living trust.
Because most estates will need an executor to some extent it makes sense to make a will and name an executor even when you leave most of your property through a trust.
A living trust goes into effect immediately while a will takes effect only after someone dies.
Living documents furthermore every revocable trust created during a settlor s lifetime is referred to as an inter vivos trust meaning it was created during lifetime as opposed to being created at death the way a will is created.
Last will by cindy deruyter j d.
What are the differences.
But in a trust based estate plan the will merely supplements and supports the trust but it s the trust that s the star of the show.
There are some key differences between trusts and wills and understanding those nuances may help you determine which option.
With a trust you initially serve as trustee and manage the property.
However california does have two procedures that fast track the probate process for smaller estates using simplified probate processes.
The average cost for an attorney to create your trust ranges from 1 000 to 1 500 for an individual and 1 200 to 1 500 for a couple.
California living trust vs.
If you become.
In most cases it also makes sense to name the same person for both.
A living trust enables you to place certain assets under the management of a trustee.
There are additional things to consider when thinking about a will vs.