WILLS, TRUSTS & ESTATE PLANNING

Do I Need A Trust In Georgia?

Most people don't need a complicated estate plan. In fact, for may Georgia families, a straightforward will may accomplish everything they need at a fraction of the cost of a living trust. But trusts can offer important advantages in certain circumstances. So, how do you know which approach is right for you? Answer a few simple questions below to explore whether a will-based or trust-based estate plan may better suit your circumstances. This free questionnaire provides general guidance, not individualized legal advice.

Educational information only, based on general Georgia estate-planning considerations. This questionnaire is not legal advice, does not establish an attorney-client relationship, and cannot account for every circumstance. Do not enter names, account numbers, or confidential details. Answers are processed in your browser and are not submitted to Harvey Law Group.

TRUST FAQS

Not necessarily.  Many Georgia families can accomplish their estate-planning goals with a properly drafted will, powers of attorney, and advance directives.  A living trust may be useful when you own property in multiple states, want greater privacy, or have particular concerns about how your assets will be managed or distributed.

Yes, potentially.  Assets properly transferred into a revocable living trust generally do not have to pass through probate when you die.  However, simply signing a trust isn’t enough.  The trust must be properly funded, and assets left outside it may still require probate.

Generally, no.  A standard revocable living trust does not protect your own assets from your creditors during your lifetime.  Other types of trusts may offer different protections, but they involve different legal and financial considerations.

Generally, yes.  As long as you have the legal capacity to do so, you can usually amend or revoke a revocable living trust.  This flexibility is one reason revocable trusts are commonly used in estate planning.

Prices will vary depending on individual circumstances; however, at Harvey Law Group, a basic will typically costs $500 for an individual or $750 for a couple.  For estates valued at less than $5 million, trust-based estate plans typically range from $2,500 to $3,500 depending on complexity.  This fee does not include any additional costs associated with funding the trust.  Larger or more complex estates may require additional planning and are priced individually.  A free consultation can help determine whether the additional expense makes sense for your circumstances.