Q: we heard a trust is the way to go, so when we go to a lawyer to set this up what do we need to bring with us?
for example deeds, registrations, bank acounts
A:
There is NO SUCH THING as 'one best way' to handle things. You need to have a good idea of what your assets are and roughly what they are worth for the first appointment with a real estate planner. He or she will then sit and talk with you about what you would like to achieve, and who your family is (bringing your address book is not a bad idea if you don't know their addresses off the top of your head!) and discuss your assets and debts in BROAD strokes.
THEN they will make recommendations about trusts, ladybird deeds, wills powers of attorney and perhaps even 'Family LLCs' or 'cottage trusts', special needs trusts, inter-vivos or testamentary or other rarer options ...
In short, don't buy into the idea that "I have heard I need document 'x'" -- talk to a skilled professional estate planning attorney -- not some dude who sells trusts after buying you a 'free lunch seminar' ....
-- This answer is offered for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney/client relationship.
I am licensed to practice in Michigan only. Please seek competent local legal help if you feel you need legal advice
A: I have an excellent estate planning intake questionnaire I can provide you with if you email me.
A: If you're speaking to an attorney about a high-quality trust, the conversation should be an extended process to try to fit your needs, rather than a single office visit situation. More details are necessary to provide a professional analysis of your issue. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website, www.AEesq.com. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.
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