A will or a trust says what should happen to your property and who should look after your family if you cannot. Settling the estate of a loved one who has died raises its own questions. An independent attorney can explain your options and what the process looks like for your situation.
What this covers
- Wills and living trusts
- Powers of attorney and health care directives
- Settling an estate after someone has died, including probate
- Managing a trust after the person who created it has died
- Disagreements about an estate or a trust
What to have ready
- A simple list of what you own, such as a home, accounts and vehicles, without needing exact figures
- Who your family is, including a spouse, children, and anyone who is a minor or has special needs
- Any existing will, trust or other estate documents
- If someone has died: the date, their relationship to you, and copies of any documents they left
Common questions
Do I need a trust, or is a will enough? It depends on your family, your property and your goals. An independent attorney can explain the differences and what fits your situation.
What if a loved one died without a will? State law often decides who receives the property, and a court process may be needed. An attorney can explain what applies and what the next steps are.