Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California
Will/Trusts
Is it possible to use a form and write an irrevocable trust without using an attorney?
Also, what is a good reference to study to decide whether or not a trust is needed?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Will/Trusts
It is not only possible, but for most people I advise it. In two weeks my book on the subject will be available on Amazon.com. It provides a plain English explanation and instructions for do-it-yourselfes. In the appendix you'll find the Legacy Living Trust Package which is the first do it yourself trust package written in simple English so that you and your trustees and beneficiaries will understand what it says. There are detailed instructions about how to complete it. The name of the book is "Create Your Legacy & Save the American Middle Class. How You Can Protect Your Loved Ones in the Event of Death and Disability (Without Paying a Lawyer)
If you have any trouble finding it, email me and I'll send you a link.
Re: Will/Trusts
I think it is a mistake to do. Pennywise and pound foolish.
Re: Will/Trusts
Using canned forms is great! By the time your heirs are arguing and suing each other and spending your estate on attorney fees, hey, you'll be dead!
And why consult an attorney? You can teach yourself everything there is to know about estate planning in but a few short years at the library.