If you own a home or have financial assets in California, a living trust isn’t just helpful—it’s foundational to protecting what you’ve built. As an estate planning attorney in Palm Springs, I regularly meet clients who assume that a will alone is enough. In reality, a revocable living trust is one of the most effective tools for avoiding probate, preserving privacy, and ensuring your wishes are carried out efficiently.
What Is a Living Trust?
A revocable living trust is a legal document that holds title to your assets while allowing you to maintain full control during your lifetime. You can amend or revoke it at any time. After your passing, a named successor trustee distributes the assets according to your instructions—without the need for court intervention.
- Avoid Probate
California’s probate process is expensive, time-consuming, and public. A trust allows your assets—including your home—to pass directly to your chosen beneficiaries. - Preserve Privacy
Unlike a will, which becomes public in probate court, a trust keeps your affairs private. - Plan for Incapacity
If you’re ever unable to manage your affairs, your successor trustee can step in without court involvement. - Protect Your Home
Placing your home in a trust ensures it can transfer smoothly to your heirs.
Trusts Aren’t Just for the Wealthy
Living trusts are not only for high-net-worth individuals. If you own a home or have over $184,500 in assets, a trust can help your loved ones avoid delays, legal fees, and confusion at a difficult time.
Living Trusts Services
Creating a trust requires careful planning and legal guidance to ensure it’s properly drafted and funded. If you’re in Palm Springs or the Coachella Valley, I’d be happy to help you understand whether a living trust is right for your situation. Contact Estate Planning Attorney, Eric A. Rudolph, at (760) 673-7600 or schedule an estate planning consultation.
