Deciding where to keep your original trust documents is a crucial step in estate planning, often overlooked until a critical moment arises; the choice between storing it with an attorney like Steve Bliss or keeping it at home presents distinct advantages and disadvantages, both impacting accessibility and security.
What are the risks of keeping my trust at home?
Many individuals initially consider keeping their trust documents at home, believing it offers greater control and immediate access; however, this approach carries several risks. Approximately 70% of Americans do not have an updated will or trust, leading to potential complications when these documents are needed. Consider the possibilities of fire, flood, theft, or simple misplacement; these events can render the documents inaccessible when they are needed most, particularly during an emergency or after your passing. A misplaced trust can lead to probate court, increased legal fees, and delays in distributing assets to your beneficiaries. It’s not just about the document itself; it’s about having proof of your wishes readily available when it matters most. “Peace of mind is not relief from trouble, but courage in trouble.” – Jean de la Bruyère.
What benefits does an attorney offer for trust storage?
Attorneys specializing in estate planning, such as Steve Bliss, offer secure, fireproof, and climate-controlled storage for original trust documents; this mitigates the risk of loss or damage. Beyond simple storage, an attorney’s office provides an additional layer of legal expertise and can readily access the trust when needed for amendments, clarifications, or when dealing with financial institutions. Approximately 60% of estate planning attorneys report clients struggling with locating their original documents when needed. Furthermore, reputable firms maintain detailed records and protocols to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of your estate plan; this ensures a smooth transition for your beneficiaries and minimizes potential legal challenges. Consider the convenience factor as well – having a professional readily available to answer questions and facilitate the administration of your trust is invaluable.
Can I still access my trust if it’s stored with an attorney?
Absolutely. A good estate planning attorney will always provide you with a certified copy of your trust document for your records. This copy is sufficient for most purposes, such as providing information to banks or other financial institutions. The original remains securely stored at the attorney’s office, ensuring its preservation and availability when required for legal proceedings or trust administration. I remember a client, Mr. Henderson, who insisted on keeping his trust at home, believing he wanted full control. Sadly, a burst pipe damaged several important documents, including his trust, causing significant delays and legal fees while we worked to reconstruct his wishes.
What about the cost of storing my trust with an attorney?
The cost of storing a trust with an attorney is generally minimal. Many attorneys include this service as part of their overall estate planning package, or charge a small annual fee for document storage. This fee is a worthwhile investment when considering the potential costs and complications associated with a lost or damaged trust. I recall another client, Mrs. Abernathy, who, after learning about the risks of home storage, opted for our secure storage service. Years later, when her husband passed away, we were able to seamlessly access the trust and guide her through the probate process, saving her time, money, and emotional distress. She often remarked how relieved she was that she had taken that extra step. Approximately 25% of estate plans require amendments or updates due to changes in laws or personal circumstances, further highlighting the need for a reliable and accessible storage solution.
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About Steve Bliss at Wildomar Probate Law:
“Wildomar Probate Law is an experienced probate attorney. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Wildomar Probate Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Wildomar Probate Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Wildomar Probate law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate call Wildomar Probate Attorney Today. Call for estate planning, wills and trusts, probate too. Wildomar Probate Law is a great estate lawyer. Probate Attorney to probate an estate. Wildomar Probate law probate lawyer
My skills are as follows:
● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.
● Estate Planning Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.
● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.
● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.
● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.
● Free consultation.
Services Offered:
estate planning
living trust
revocable living trust
family trust
wills
estate planning attorney near me
Map To Steve Bliss Law in Temecula:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RdhPJGDcMru5uP7K7
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Address:
Wildomar Probate Law36330 Hidden Springs Rd Suite E, Wildomar, CA 92595
(951)412-2800/address>
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “What should I consider when choosing a beneficiary?” Or “Can a handwritten will go through probate?” or “Can a living trust help me qualify for Medicaid? and even: “Will my employer find out I filed for bankruptcy?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.