When is it more important to use a living trust as opposed to a will? This is a question many clients and advisors ask themselves. Discussed below is an attempt to clarify these murky waters.

First, let's make sure we understand that the answer to the above question may vary depending on which state you are from. For example, use of living trusts may be more widespread in certain states such as Florida or California. For our purposes, we will focus on New York. However, keep in mind that even for lawyers in the same state there is significant difference of opinion. Remember the old saying: "if you ask ten lawyers for their opinions you are bound to get at least fifteen strongly-held, well reasoned views." With that backdrop in mind, here are some thoughts:

We think most people do estate planning for one or more of the following reasons...click here to read more