If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you should consult an attorney to determine if a living trust would be appropriate for you: 

  • Do I have children who are not mature enough to handle inherited money responsibly?
  • Do I have a child who is disabled or incapable of handling his finances?
  • Do I have a child with a drinking, drug, or gambling problem?
  • Do I have a child with an untrustworthy spouse?
  • Do I have a child who is so successful that he will be subject to his own estate taxes?
  • Do I have a child who is in a business or profession potentially subject to personal liability (i.e. a doctor)?
  • Am I divorced and have minor children?
  • Am I re-married and have children from a prior marriage?
  • Am I concerned about the privacy of my affairs after my death?
  • Am I concerned about the costs and timeliness of concluding my affairs after my death?
  • Do I own real estate located in a state other than the state in which I reside?
  • Do I trust the federal government to continue to allow a couple to transfer $23.4 million of assets at death without paying federal estate taxes?