Can I change or revoke my will or trust after it is created?

Yes, in most cases. As long as you have the legal capacity to do so, you can revoke or replace a will, and a revocable trust can generally be modified or revoked during your lifetime. Irrevocable trusts are much more limited in changes that can be made. A Connecticut estate planning attorney, such as Connecticut Attorney Geoffrey T. Einhorn, can help you make updates when your circumstances or goals change.

What estate planning documents should every adult have?

Most adults should have a will, durable power of attorney, advance health directives, appointment of healthcare agent, designation of conservator,  and, depending on their circumstances, a revocable living trust. An estate planning attorney can recommend the documents that best fit your individual needs and goals. The Law Offices of Geoffrey T. Einhorn, LLC can recommend the documents that best fit your personal, family, and financial needs.

How often should I update my will or trust?

You should review your estate plan every three to five years or whenever you experience a major life event, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, a death in the family, or significant financial changes. Attorney Geoffrey T. Einhorn recommends regular updates to help ensure your documents continue to reflect your wishes.

Can a Trust help my family avoid probate?

Yes, but only if it is properly funded. Assets that are transferred into a living trust during your lifetime generally avoid probate and can pass directly to your beneficiaries. However, any assets left outside of the trust may still need to go through probate and pass by a will.

What is the difference between a Revocable vs. an Irrevocable Trust?

Revocable Trust: can generally be changed or revoked during your lifetime, providing flexibility as circumstances change.

Irrevocable Trust: is typically more difficult to modify but may offer benefits such as asset protection or tax planning in certain situations.

The Law Offices of Geoffrey T. Einhorn, LLC can help you determine which type of trust best meets your goals.

What is the difference between a Will and a Trust?

A will directs how your assets are distributed after your death and generally goes through probate.

A trust can manage assets during your lifetime and after your death and may help simplify the transfer of property to your beneficiaries and minimize probate.

Attorney Geoffrey T, Einhorn can help determine whether a will, trust, or combination of both is right for your estate plan.

Can I write my own will?

While you can create your own will, even small mistakes may make it difficult to enforce or fail to accomplish your goals. Working with an experienced Connecticut estate planning attorney helps ensure your documents are legally valid and tailored to your family’s needs.

What happens if I die without a will in Connecticut?

If you die without a valid will, Connecticut’s intestacy laws determine how your assets are distributed. This may not reflect your wishes and can create unnecessary stress, delays, and expenses for your loved ones. The Law Offices of Geoffrey T. Einhorn, LLC helps Connecticut families avoid these issues by preparing legally sound estate plans.

Do I really need a will if I don’t have many assets?

Yes, a will is not just for people with significant wealth. It lets you decide who inherits your property instead of statutory intestacy laws. It also allows you to choose who will administers your estate and, if you have minor children, who you want as their guardian. Attorney Geoffrey T. Einhorn can help you create a will that reflects your wishes and protects your loved ones.