When Is a Will Enough — And When Do You Really Need a Trust?
Passing It On: Estate Planning for Families · Michael Pevney
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Show Notes
In this episode, I dive into one of the most common estate planning questions I get: Is a will enough? Or do I need a trust?
I break down when a will might be appropriate — and why, in most cases here in California, it falls short. Especially if you own real estate or have young kids, relying on just a will could cost your family tens of thousands of dollars and years of court time.
You'll learn:
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What a will actually does (and doesn't do)
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Why a will does NOT avoid probate in California
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The types of people who might be okay with a will
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When a living trust becomes essential
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How probate works — and why we want to avoid it at all costs
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Why control matters when passing assets to kids or beneficiaries
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The 2 other must-have documents: Power of Attorney and Advance Healthcare Directive
Whether you're starting your estate plan or just trying to figure out the difference between a will and a trust, this episode will give you a solid foundation.
👋 I'm Michael Pevney, an estate planning lawyer based in Orange County. I help families all over California set up custom estate plans that protect what they've built and avoid court.
🔗 Book a free strategy session with me at
https://www.ocestateplanlawyer.com
📍 Pevney Estate Planning, PC
25201 Paseo de Alicia, Suite 140
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
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