professional representation
Firm
click here for a free consultation

Lakewood living trusts attorney

When planning your estate, one powerful tool to consider is a living trust. Living trusts can provide your family with a smoother path by helping avoid the often lengthy and costly probate process after you pass away. If you want to protect your assets and ensure your loved ones receive their inheritance quickly and privately, a living trust might be the right choice for you.

To explore whether a living trust fits your unique needs, connect with a trusted Lakewood living trusts attorney at Colorado Estate Matters. Our experienced trust lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way. Call us today at (303) 713-9147 for your free consultation and start securing your family’s future.

lakewood living trusts attorney

Why is Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd. the right law firm for you?

Choosing the right law firm for your estate planning is crucial. At Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd., we bring decades of experience as dedicated living trusts attorneys serving Lakewood and the surrounding areas. Our team prioritizes clear communication and personalized service to help you understand every step of the trust administration and estate planning process.

We offer flexible options, including virtual consultations, to fit your schedule. With us, you get a trusted trust attorney who will guide you through creating a comprehensive plan that protects your assets, supports your family members, and helps you avoid the complexities of probate court. Call us today to learn how we can help you secure your legacy.

How to craft a living trust in Lakewood

Creating a living trust involves several important steps to ensure your estate is managed and distributed according to your wishes. Here’s what you can expect when working with a skilled Lakewood living trusts attorney:

  1. Initial consultation: Discuss your goals, family situation, and assets with your trust attorney to determine if a living trust fits your estate planning needs.
  2. Inventory your assets: Work with your attorney to list all property, financial accounts, and valuable items you want to include in the trust.
  3. Choose a trustee: Select a trusted individual or professional to manage your trust during your lifetime and after your passing.
  4. Draft the trust document: Your attorney prepares a legal document outlining the terms of the trust, including how assets will be managed and distributed.
  5. Sign and fund the trust: Officially sign the trust documents and transfer ownership of your assets into the trust to avoid probate.
  6. Review and update as needed: Periodically revisit your trust with your attorney to make adjustments based on life changes or new estate planning laws.

Common types of living trusts and which one might be right for you

When working with a Lakewood living trusts attorney, you’ll learn that not all trusts are created equal. Understanding the different types of trusts can help you choose the one that best fits your goals for asset protection, estate planning, and providing for your family members.

Revocable living trust

This is the most common type of living trust. It allows you to maintain control over your assets during your lifetime, with the flexibility to make changes or revoke the trust at any time. Upon your passing, the assets are transferred directly to your beneficiaries without going through the probate process. A revocable trust is ideal if you want to avoid probate while retaining control.

Irrevocable living trust

Unlike a revocable trust, an irrevocable living trust cannot be easily changed or revoked once it’s established. This type of trust offers stronger asset protection and may provide tax benefits, but it requires giving up direct control over the assets. Irrevocable trusts are often used for estate tax planning or protecting assets from creditors.

Special needs trust

If you have a family member with special needs, a special needs trust can provide for their care without jeopardizing eligibility for government benefits. This trust is carefully crafted to comply with legal requirements, ensuring ongoing financial support without affecting public assistance.

Testamentary trust

Created through your will, a testamentary trust only takes effect after your death. It can manage assets for minor children or others who need help handling their inheritance, but it must go through probate court.

Choosing the right trust involves careful consideration of your personal situation and estate planning goals. A knowledgeable trust lawyer at Colorado Estate Matters will help you understand your options and craft a plan that protects your legacy while meeting your family’s needs.

Understanding estate taxes and living trusts in Lakewood

Many people choose to set up living trusts in Lakewood to help their families avoid the burden of estate taxes after they pass away. The good news is that federal estate taxes generally only apply if your estate exceeds about $12 million, so most families won’t be affected.

Because assets held in a living trust transfer directly to your successor trustee upon your death, they typically avoid the probate process—and the associated estate taxes that can apply to assets passed through a will. This is one of the many benefits that make living trusts an effective tool for asset protection and smooth trust administration.

Get help from a living trusts attorney in Lakewood today

Setting up a living trust does not have to be as complicated as you might have thought. With the help of a seasoned Lakewood living trusts lawyer at Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd., you can get your living trusts set up and your estate plans formalized so your family is protected upon your passing.

When you are ready to get started with your living trusts, schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can reach us through our quick contact form or by phone at (303) 713-9147.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a living trust and a will?

A living trust allows your assets to be managed and distributed privately without going through probate, while a will must go through probate and becomes a public record.

Can I change or revoke my living trust?

Yes, if you have a revocable living trust, you can modify or revoke it anytime during your lifetime. Irrevocable trusts, however, generally cannot be changed.

How does a living trust help avoid probate?

Assets placed in a living trust are owned by the trust, not you personally. When you pass away, these assets transfer directly to your beneficiaries without the delays and costs of probate court.

Do I still need a will if I have a living trust?

Yes, a will (often called a “pour-over will”) is used to transfer any assets not included in the trust at the time of your death.

Who should I name as my trustee?

Choose someone you trust to manage your assets responsibly. This can be a family member, friend, or a professional trustee such as a bank or law firm.

What happens if I become incapacitated?

A living trust can provide instructions for managing your financial affairs if you become incapacitated, helping avoid court-appointed guardianship or conservatorship.

Schedule your free consultation

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

ALL FIELDS Are REQUIRED

Search...