Trusts
A Practical Tool for Managing & Protecting Your Assets
Trusts are often seen as complicated—but the right kind of trust can make your estate plan stronger, more flexible, and easier for your family to manage. We help individuals and families in New York City and the Greater Hudson Valley create customized trusts that fit their needs. Whether you want to avoid probate, plan for incapacity, or provide for a loved one with special needs, we’ll guide you through every step in plain English.
Types of Trusts We Commonly Create
- Revocable Living Trusts – These allow you to manage your assets during your lifetime and pass them directly to beneficiaries without going through probate. You can change or cancel them at any time.
- Irrevocable Trusts – Often used for asset protection or Medicaid planning. Once created, these generally cannot be changed.
- Special Needs Trusts – Set up to support a loved one with disabilities without affecting their eligibility for government benefits.
- Testamentary Trusts – Created through your will and activated after your death, often used for minor children or to stagger inheritances.
We’ll explain which options may apply based on your goals, assets, and family structure.
Why Consider a Trust?
Avoids probate and keeps your affairs private
Gives you more control over how and when assets are distributed
Can protect assets from creditors or nursing home costs
Helps manage property for children or vulnerable beneficiaries
Can reduce delays and expenses for your family down the road
You don’t need to be wealthy to benefit from a trust—just thoughtful about what happens next.
Trusts & Local Property
Many of our clients use trusts to transfer homes, rental properties, or investment accounts in NYC and the Hudson Valley. We’ll help make sure your deed, titles, and beneficiary designations are coordinated correctly with your trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will takes effect after death and usually goes through probate. A trust can take effect while you're alive and helps avoid probate altogether. In many cases, we recommend having both.
Do I need a trust if I already have a will?
Possibly. If you want to avoid probate, protect assets, or plan for long-term care, a trust may offer more flexibility than a will alone.
Will I lose control of my assets if I put them in a trust?
Not with a revocable trust—you can still use, manage, or sell your property as you normally would. With irrevocable trusts, control is limited, but they offer more protection.
How much does it cost to set up a trust?
It depends on the complexity of the trust and your goals. We offer straightforward pricing and will walk you through the options during your consultation.
Let’s Talk About Whether a Trust Makes Sense for You
Trusts aren’t just for the wealthy—they’re for anyone who wants more control and less red tape. We’ll help you understand the benefits and choose a plan that fits your life. Contact us today to get started.
Let us Know How We Can Help
We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Please try again later.