San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer

The Election Won’t Change the Government’s Plan for Your Family and Assets… You Need an Estate Plan!

As we round out another election season, it’s natural to focus on how government policies might affect our families and finances. However, as any experienced San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer will tell you, there’s a crucial aspect of your family’s future that remains constant regardless of who’s in office: the need for a personalized estate plan.

The Government’s Default Plan

Here’s a sobering reality: if you don’t create your own will or trust, you’re defaulting to the government’s “plan” for your estate. This plan is implemented through a process called probate, which can be both expensive and time-consuming. During probate:

  • Your estate cannot be distributed to loved ones
  • A judge makes decisions about how your legacy is distributed
  • Family disputes are settled by the court

As a San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how this process can strain families and diminish inheritances. The good news? You have the power to avoid this scenario entirely.

Beyond Death: Planning for Incapacity

Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone. It’s also about protecting yourself and your family while you’re alive. Without crucial documents like a healthcare directive and power of attorney, your loved ones can’t simply “step in” if you become incapacitated. Instead, they must petition the court for these rights – a process that’s expensive, time-consuming, and potentially contentious.

Even more concerning, without these documents in place, someone you may never have chosen could gain control over your finances and healthcare decisions. A San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer can help you create these vital documents, ensuring your wishes are respected even if you can’t speak for yourself.

Long-Term Care: Protecting Your Assets

Did you know that statistically, most of us will need long-term care at some point in our lives? The government’s default plan for this scenario is simple: you pay until you’re broke, then Medi-Cal steps in. However, with proper planning, you can work to protect your hard-earned assets for your family, not Uncle Sam.

A knowledgeable San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer can help you explore options like irrevocable trusts or long-term care insurance to safeguard your assets while ensuring you receive the care you need.

Taking Control of Your Legacy

While elections may change the political landscape, they don’t change the fundamental importance of having a solid estate plan. Some of the most critical decisions affecting your family’s quality of life are actually in your hands, not a politician’s. By creating a comprehensive estate plan, you’re taking control of your legacy and ensuring your wishes are carried out.

Don’t leave your family’s future to chance or government default plans. A San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer can guide you through the process of creating a personalized estate plan that protects your assets and ensures your wishes are respected.

Remember, the best time to plan is now, regardless of your age or asset level. By taking action today, you’re giving yourself and your loved ones the gift of security and peace of mind.  Contact us at 818-334-2805 to get started with the process.

Calabasas trust lawyer

Lessons from Prince’s Estate: Calabasas Trust Lawyer on Avoiding Family Drama When Planning Your Legacy

Even iconic artists like Prince can encounter estate planning challenges. As a devoted fan of many musical legends, I was surprised as a Calabasas trust lawyer to learn that Prince passed away without a trust or will. Sadly, the resulting legal battles within his estate continue to make headlines. Let’s delve into the situation and discover valuable lessons we can all learn from this unfortunate estate planning situation.

The Prelude: A Musical Legacy Unprepared

Prince, the musical genius behind hits like “Purple Rain” and “When Doves Cry,” left behind a substantial estate valued at hundreds of millions of dollars. Unfortunately, his passing in 2016 without a will meant his estate entered probate, a legal process for distributing assets without a clear plan in place.

Eventually, six of Prince’s siblings inherited his estate, which was divided between two limited liability companies (LLCs). These LLCs formed a joint venture to manage Prince’s assets, with two former business advisors appointed as managing members. The siblings agreed to be passive members, uninvolved in day-to-day management decisions.

The Unfortunate Turn: Disagreements and Legal Battles

Despite the initial agreement, one of Prince’s sisters, Sharon, sought to exert more control over the estate. She attempted to replace staff at Prince’s former residence (now a museum) and advocated for extravagant events, but her requests were denied by the managing members.

Sharon then tried to replace the managing members and, failing that, led a successful effort to amend the LLC agreement. However, the managers filed a lawsuit, arguing that the amendment was invalid.

The Lesson: U Got the Look (of Someone Who Needs an Estate Plan)

The court ultimately sided with the managers. Why? Because in Delaware (where the LLC was formed), contracts are king. Even if you have a majority vote, you can’t just change an agreement willy-nilly if it goes against what everyone originally agreed to. This highlights several crucial lessons we can all learn:

  1. Create an Estate Plan: If Prince had a trust or will, much of this legal turmoil could likely have been avoided.
  2. Understand Agreements: Thoroughly review and comprehend any contracts or agreements before signing them.
  3. Respect Roles: If you agree to be a passive member in a business arrangement, adhere to that role.
  4. Put It in Writing: Clear, well-drafted agreements are essential for preventing future disputes.
  5. Seek Professional Guidance: Estate planning and business agreements are complex areas of law. Consult with experienced professionals for expert advice.

The Encore: Let’s Go Crazy (for Good Estate Planning)

As Prince himself sang, “Life is just a party, and parties weren’t meant to last.” While our time on Earth is finite, a well-crafted estate plan ensures that your legacy endures harmoniously.

Don’t delay in securing your own estate plan. Schedule a consultation with us today to create a plan that protects your wishes and safeguards your loved ones. Let’s create a legacy that would make any music icon proud. Contact us at 818-334-2805 and we’ll help you get started.

North LA County trust lawyer

The Trustor: Unsung Hero of Estate Planning – A North LA County Trust Lawyer’s Perspective

Imagine you’re at a family reunion, and your eccentric Uncle Bob starts talking about how he’s become a “Trustor.” Your cousin Sarah rolls her eyes, assuming it’s just another one of Bob’s quirky hobbies. But little does she know, Uncle Bob might just be the smartest person at the picnic table.

As a North LA County trust lawyer, I can tell you that being a Trustor isn’t about joining some secret society or learning a new dance move. It’s about taking control of your legacy and protecting your family’s future. So, let’s demystify this role and show why Uncle Bob deserves a high-five instead of an eye-roll.

What Exactly Does a Trustor Do?

A Trustor, simply put, is the person who creates a trust. But the role involves much more than just signing a few papers. Here are the key responsibilities of a Trustor:

  1. Creating the Trust: The Trustor is responsible for establishing the trust by drafting a legally binding trust agreement. This document outlines how the trust will operate and what it aims to achieve.
  2. Defining Terms: As the Trustor, you set the rules. You decide who the beneficiaries are, how the assets should be managed, and under what conditions they should be distributed. Want to ensure your grandchildren use their inheritance for education? You can specify that in the trust terms.
  3. Appointing Trustees: The Trustor selects one or more trustees to manage the trust. This is a crucial decision, as the trustee will be responsible for carrying out your wishes according to the trust document.
  4. Funding the Trust: A trust is only effective if it has assets. The Trustor is responsible for transferring ownership of assets into the trust, which could include property, investments, or cash.

Why Being a Trustor Matters

Now, you might be wondering why anyone would want to take on these responsibilities. As a North LA County trust lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how being a Trustor can make a world of difference:

  • Control: As a Trustor, you maintain control over how your assets are managed and distributed, even after you’re gone.
  • Protection: Trusts can protect your assets from creditors and potentially reduce estate taxes.
  • Privacy: Unlike wills, trusts are not public record, offering more privacy for your family.
  • Flexibility: Trusts can be tailored to meet your specific needs and family situation.

Real-World Impact of Being a Trustor

Remember Uncle Bob? Let’s say he set up a trust for his grandkids’ education. Twenty years from now, when little Timmy is heading off to college debt-free, he’ll be thanking his lucky stars for his forward-thinking grandpa. That’s the power of being a Trustor – you’re not just managing assets, you’re shaping futures.

Ready to Create Your Trust?

Being a Trustor isn’t just for eccentric uncles or millionaire tycoons. It’s for anyone who wants to protect their assets and provide for their loved ones. Whether you’re a small business owner, a new parent, or just someone who likes to plan ahead, you can step into the Trustor role.

Don’t let your hard-earned assets and your hopes for your loved ones’ futures be left to chance. Contact us at 818-334-2805 to schedule a consultation with a North LA County trust lawyer. We’ll help you embrace your role as a Trustor and create a legacy that stands the test of time.

San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer

Grandparents and Estate Planning: How a San Fernando Valley Estate Planning Lawyer Can Help You Protect Your Grandchildren’s Future

As a grandparent, you’ve probably spent countless hours doting on your grandchildren, showering them with love, and creating precious memories. But have you considered how you can continue to support and protect them long after you’re gone? As a San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how grandparents can play a crucial role in securing their grandchildren’s financial future. Let’s explore some powerful strategies you can use to leave a lasting legacy.

The Grandparent’s Dilemma: Love vs. Long-Term Planning

Picture this: You’re at your grandchild’s birthday party, watching them blow out the candles on their cake. As you hand them yet another gift, a thought crosses your mind – “How can I make sure I’m still helping them when I’m no longer here?” It’s a common concern, but one that many grandparents struggle to address.

The good news? You don’t have to choose between showering your grandkids with love today and securing their tomorrow. With the right estate planning strategies, you can do both.

Your Estate Planning Toolkit: Options for Grandparents

As a San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer, I’ve helped many grandparents navigate this journey. Here are some powerful tools you can use to protect your grandchildren’s future:

1. 529 College Savings Plans: These tax-advantaged investment accounts are specifically designed for education expenses. By contributing to a 529 plan, you can help ease the burden of college tuition for your grandchildren.

2. Trusts: Setting up a trust allows you to specify how and when your assets are distributed to your grandchildren. This can be particularly useful if you want to ensure the funds are used responsibly or if you have concerns about your grandchild’s money management skills.

3. Life Insurance: A life insurance policy can provide your children with a financial safety net.

4. Direct Gifts: You can make annual tax-free gifts up to a certain amount (currently $18,000 per person in 2024) to each grandchild.

The Power of 529 Plans: A Closer Look

Let’s zoom in on 529 plans for a moment. These plans offer a unique combination of tax benefits and flexibility that make them particularly attractive for grandparents:

  • Tax-free growth: The money in the account grows tax-free as long as it’s used for qualified education expenses.
  • Potential state tax deductions: Depending on your state, you may be able to deduct contributions from your state income taxes.
  • Flexibility: If one grandchild doesn’t need all the funds, you can change the beneficiary to another family member.

Trusts: Tailored Protection for Your Grandchildren

While 529 plans are great for education expenses, trusts offer broader protection and control. As a San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer, I’ve helped grandparents set up various types of trusts, including:

  • Testamentary Trusts: Created through your will, these trusts come into effect after you pass away.
  • Living Trusts: These are created and funded while you’re alive, offering more immediate benefits and potentially avoiding probate.
  • Spendthrift Trusts: These can protect assets from creditors and provide guidelines for how the money is spent.

Taking Action: Your Next Steps

Ready to start protecting your grandchildren’s future? Here’s what you can do:

  1. Assess your financial situation:  Determine how much you can comfortably set aside for your grandchildren without jeopardizing your own retirement.
  2. Talk to your adult children: Discuss your plans to ensure they align with your children’s own financial strategies for their kids.
  3. Consult with professionals: Work with both a financial advisor and a San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer to create a comprehensive plan.
  4. Review and update regularly: As your grandchildren grow and circumstances change, make sure your plan still reflects your wishes.

Remember, estate planning isn’t just about distributing assets – it’s about creating a lasting legacy of love and support for your family. By taking these steps, you’re not just planning for your grandchildren’s financial future; you’re also teaching them valuable lessons about foresight, responsibility, and family values.

If you’re ready to start this journey, we’re here to help. Contact us at 818-334-2805 to schedule a consultation with a San Fernando Valley estate planning lawyer. We’ll work with you to create a plan that protects your grandchildren’s future and honors your wishes. Your grandchildren’s tomorrow starts with the plans you make today!

Calabasas trust lawyers

Stepping In: What to Do as Trustee When Your Loved One is Hospitalized | Calabasas Trust Lawyers

Being named a trustee is an important responsibility, but sometimes life throws unexpected situations your way. When a loved one is hospitalized and you have to step into the trustee role, you might feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what lies ahead. Here’s a guide on how to navigate your new responsibilities and ensure your loved one’s best interests are protected.

Understanding Your Role as Trustee

As a trustee, you have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the trust’s beneficiaries. This means carefully following the terms of the trust document and fulfilling the responsibilities it outlines. Some common tasks might include:

  • Managing Assets: You may need to manage the investments, real estate, or other assets held by the trust.
  • Paying Bills: The trust might be responsible for paying your loved one’s bills, taxes, or care-related expenses.
  • Making Distributions: You might be authorized to make distributions to the trust’s beneficiaries under certain conditions.
  • Record-Keeping: Keeping detailed records of your actions as trustee is crucial for accountability.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

It’s important to know that you’re not expected to go it alone during this time. Trust administration can be complex. Seeking guidance from experienced Calabasas trust lawyers ensures you take the right steps and avoid potential missteps that could have costly consequences. They can also advise you on your responsibilities, assist with asset management, and ensure compliance with all the necessary legal requirements that trustees face.

We’re Here to Help

Navigating your role as trustee during a stressful time can be incredibly difficult. We understand. Our Calabasas trust lawyers are here to offer personalized support and guidance every step of the way. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your specific situation, answer your questions, and develop a clear plan of action. Call us at 818-334-2805 and let’s work together to ensure your loved one’s trust is managed responsibly for their ongoing care and well-being.

Calabasas trust lawyer

New Home Contract? Now’s the Time to Consider a Trust – Consult a Calabasas Trust Lawyer

New Home Contract? Now’s the Time to Consider a Trust – Consult a Calabasas Trust Lawyer

You’ve found your dream home and your offer’s been accepted – this is an exciting time! As you approach closing, your agent, attorney, or title company will ask how you’d like to hold the title to the property. While individual ownership is common, placing your new house into a trust right from the start has compelling advantages.

Why Transfer Your New House to a Trust at Closing?

  1. Effortless Probate Avoidance: Your house seamlessly passes to your intended beneficiaries outside of probate court. This means no costly attorney fees, administrative delays, or undue stress for your heirs.
  2. Control Even After Your Passing: With a trust, you set guidelines for how your property is managed, sold, or distributed. This lets you protect your wishes, even when you’re no longer here.
  3. Privacy Matters: Trusts remain private, protecting your family’s financial affairs from public records, unlike wills.
  4. Incapacity Planning: Should illness or an accident render you unable to handle your affairs, your chosen successor trustee swiftly assumes management of the property. This prevents issues from lack of ownership oversight.
  5. Potential Tax Advantages (Seek Professional Advice): Tax laws are complex, but certain trust structures can sometimes offer tax benefits. Consulting a Calabasas trust lawyer early will allow you to make informed decisions.

Make Informed Property Ownership Decisions

Placing a new home into a trust may not be the right choice for everyone. An experienced Calabasas trust lawyer will:

  • Analyze your unique circumstances and family dynamics.
  • Explain how different trust structures will impact your goals.
  • Address any mortgage-related considerations.
  • Facilitate trust creation and execute the property transfer at closing.

Start Protecting Your Legacy Today

Ready to consider if a trust is right for your new home purchase? Our experienced estate planning attorneys are here to guide you. You’ll gain clarity about your options and ensure your investment is safeguarded for your loved ones’ future. To schedule a consultation with our Calabasas law firm, simply call 818-334-2805 to get started.

San Fernando Valley Will and Trust Lawyer

Leaving a Legacy to Your Nieces and Nephews: What to Know and Why You Need a San Fernando Valley Will and Trust Lawyer

If you share a close bond with your nieces and nephews, ensuring they’re included in your estate plan is natural. However, the laws of inheritance can complicate things, especially for younger beneficiaries. Let’s unravel the factors to consider:

How Inheritance Laws Work without a Will

When you die without a will (known as dying “intestate”), state laws dictate how your assets are distributed. In most cases, these laws prioritize descendants in order of lineage:

  • First in line: Your spouse and children.
  • Next: Your parents.
  • Following that: Siblings come into the picture.

Nieces and nephews often won’t inherit directly in this scenario unless their own parent (your sibling) has also predeceased you.

Leaving Assets Directly to Nieces and Nephews

A clear, legally-sound will ensures your inheritance desires are honored. A San Fernando Valley will and trust lawyer will help you structure your will to leave specific assets or a portion of your estate to your nieces and nephews.

Important Considerations for Minors

If your nieces and nephews are still minors, it’s important to consider the following issues when creating your plan: 

  • Age of Majority: Most states consider minors unable to directly manage property or finances before age 18 (in some states, 21).
  • Guardianship Battles: Parents are normally guardians, but without a plan, surviving relatives could clash over this role, jeopardizing your intended legacy.
  • Access to Funds: Even well-intentioned guardians may have limits on how they can use inherited money for a child’s benefit.

Trusts – The Flexible Solution

Trusts solve problems and provide enhanced control over how and when your nieces and nephews receive their inheritance. Your lawyer can advise on these crucial components:

  • Trustee Choice: Choose someone you trust implicitly to manage assets responsibly for your beneficiaries until they reach a certain age.
  • Distribution Rules: Tailor provisions for staggered payouts, funding education, or meeting specific needs in their childhood.
  • Protecting Assets: Properly constructed trusts may shield inheritances from future creditors or bad financial decisions early in a beneficiary’s adult life.

Get Clear Guidance – Protect Your Legacy

If you are interested in creating a plan that benefits your nieces and nephews, our San Fernando Valley will and trust lawyers are here to offer guidance and support. Simply call our law firm at 818-334-2805 to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll help you navigate the legal framework and design an estate plan that reflects your love and ensures peace of mind.

North LA County estate planning lawyers

Are All Trusts Living Trusts? A North LA County Estate Planning Lawyer Explains

The word “trust” gets used quite broadly, creating potential confusion. While a “living trust” is a widely discussed instrument for estate planning, it’s crucial to understand that not every trust is a living trust. Below our North LA County estate planning lawyers break down the key distinctions.

What is a Trust?

Simply put, a trust is a legal arrangement where someone (the grantor) places assets (property, investments, etc.) under the management of a trustee for the benefit of named beneficiaries. Trusts provide flexible control over asset distribution and come in several forms.

Two Primary Trust Categories

  • Living Trusts (also called Revocable Trusts): Revocable Living Trusts are created during the grantor’s lifetime. Grantors often act as their own trustee initially, retaining control. These trusts can be changed or dissolved easily. Their primary advantage is avoiding probate.
  • Testamentary Trusts: These types of trusts are established within a person’s will and only go into effect after their passing. Because they arise only upon death, testamentary trusts don’t avoid probate. They primarily are used to control how assets pass to beneficiaries (such as minor children).

Other Trust Types

To further illustrate the variety, here are a few additional trust types:

  • Irrevocable Trusts: Once created, the grantor cannot alter the trust’s terms. These can offer certain tax and asset protection advantages within a specialized plan.
  • Special Needs Trusts: Designed to benefit individuals with disabilities while allowing them to maintain public benefit eligibility.
  • Charitable Trusts: Used for philanthropic purposes with potential tax benefits for grantors.

Why the Focus on Living Trusts?

Probate avoidance is a significant concern for many people. Living trusts offer a relatively straightforward way to achieve this, making them a common tool within estate plans.

Is a Trust Right for You?

Choosing the right type of trust (or if any trust is needed) depends on your goals and situation. A North LA County estate planning lawyer can assess your needs and advise on the following:

  • If probate avoidance is your primary concern
  • Whether you seek advanced tax strategies
  • How potential incapacity factors into your situation
  • If you have minor children or beneficiaries with special needs

Seek Clarity With Experienced Guidance

Ready to explore your estate planning options? Our firm assists clients in creating secure plans tailored to their needs. Schedule a consultation to learn more about how trusts can serve you. Simply contact our North LA County estate planning lawyers at 818-334-2805 to schedule a consultation.

Calabasas trust attorney

Why Setting Up a Trust is a Smart Move When Buying a New Home According to a Calabasas Trust Attorney

Buying a new home is more than just a significant financial investment; it’s a key component of your overall estate. As you embark on this exciting journey, it’s crucial to consider how this asset will be managed, both now and in the future. One effective strategy for managing real estate assets is setting up a trust, a tool that a knowledgeable Calabasas trust attorney can help you navigate.

Understanding Trusts in Estate Planning

A trust is a legal arrangement where one party (the trustee) holds and manages assets for the benefit of another (the beneficiary). In the context of estate planning, a trust can offer a structured and strategic way to handle significant assets, including real estate like your new home.

Benefits of Placing Your Home in a Trust

When you place your home in a trust, you gain several key benefits:

  • Probate Avoidance: Assets in a trust bypass the often lengthy and costly probate process, enabling a smoother and more efficient transfer to beneficiaries.
  • Privacy: Unlike probated assets, the details of a trust are not a matter of public record, offering greater privacy in how your estate is handled.
  • Potential Tax Benefits: Depending on the type of trust, there can be tax advantages both for you during your lifetime and for your beneficiaries after your passing.
  • Ease of Transfer: A trust can provide clear instructions on how your home should be managed or distributed, reducing the potential for disputes among heirs.

Protecting Your Real Estate Investment

A trust can also provide protection for your home from potential legal issues. This includes safeguarding the asset against lawsuits or creditor claims, ensuring that your investment remains secure for the benefit of your beneficiaries.

Flexibility and Control

Different types of trusts offer various levels of flexibility and control:

  • A revocable trust allows you to retain control over the asset during your lifetime, with the ability to alter or dissolve the trust if needed.
  • An irrevocable trust provides stronger protection against creditors and legal claims but involves giving up direct control over the asset.

Working with a Calabasas Trust Attorney

Establishing a trust for your new home is a decision that requires careful consideration and professional guidance. Consulting with a Calabasas trust attorney is essential in determining the best type of trust for your situation, ensuring it aligns with your overall estate planning goals. and is set up correctly.

Getting Help

Are you buying a new home and considering how best to include it in your estate plan? Our Calabasas trust attorneys are here to help. Contact us at 818-334-2805 to discuss how setting up a trust can benefit you and your loved ones, ensuring your new home is managed according to your wishes.

West San Fernando Valley trust attorney

Revocable vs. Irrevocable Trusts: Key Differences Explained by a West San Fernando Valley Trust Attorney

When it comes to estate planning, understanding the different types of trusts available is crucial. Two common types are revocable and irrevocable trusts, each with its own set of features and benefits. As a West San Fernando Valley trust attorney, I often encounter questions about the differences between these two types of trusts and which one might be the best fit for a particular estate plan.

What is a Revocable Trust?

A revocable trust, also known as a living trust, is a flexible estate planning tool. The grantor – the person who creates the trust – retains the ability to modify or completely revoke the trust at any time during their lifetime. This flexibility allows for adjustments as life circumstances or estate planning goals change.

Benefits of a Revocable Trust

The main benefits of a revocable trust include:

  • Privacy: Unlike a will, a revocable trust is not a public record. It allows for a more private distribution of assets.
  • Probate Avoidance: Assets held in a revocable trust bypass the probate process, facilitating a smoother and quicker transfer to beneficiaries.
  • Control Over Assets: The grantor maintains control over the assets in the trust and can make changes as needed.

Upon the death of the grantor, a revocable trust typically becomes irrevocable, meaning it can no longer be changed.

What is an Irrevocable Trust?

An irrevocable trust, once established, generally cannot be altered or revoked. The grantor transfers assets into the trust, relinquishing control and ownership. This transfer is permanent, and the grantor typically cannot reclaim the assets or change the terms of the trust.

Benefits of an Irrevocable Trust

Key benefits include:

  • Tax Advantages: An irrevocable trust can provide significant tax benefits, including estate tax reductions and income tax advantages.
  • Asset Protection: Assets in an irrevocable trust are generally protected from creditors and legal judgments against the grantor.
  • Medi-Cal Planning: Properly structured irrevocable trusts can help in planning for Medi-Cal eligibility, as assets in the trust may not be counted against the grantor’s assets.

Choosing the Right Trust for Your Needs

Deciding whether a revocable or irrevocable trust is right for you depends on your individual circumstances, financial goals, and estate planning objectives. Factors such as the desire for flexibility, tax considerations, and asset protection needs all play a role in this decision.

Getting Help

Revocable and irrevocable trusts serve different purposes in estate planning. Understanding these differences is key to making an informed decision about which trust suits your needs best.

Whether you’re considering a revocable trust for flexibility or an irrevocable trust for asset protection and tax benefits, our West San Fernando Valley trust attorneys are here to guide you. Contact us at 818-334-2805 to discuss your estate planning needs and determine the best trust strategy for your situation.