Table of Contents
Introduction vii
Chapter 1 The Probate Process 1
Chapter 2 Avoiding Probate without Using Trusts 14
Chapter 3 Using Trusts as a Probate-Avoiding Tool 31
Chapter 4 Six Situations When a Trust Is Absolutely Necessary 69
Chapter 5 Using Powers of Attorney to Avoid Court-Ordered Guardians and Conservators 73
Chapter 6 Selecting and Dealing with Attorneys 79
Chapter 7 Funding the Trust 81
Chapter 8 Myths and Misconceptions about Estates and Probate 87
Appendix A Sample Intestacy Laws 91
Appendix B Sample Medical Power of Attorney and Advance Directive 95
Appendix C Sample Durable Springing Power of Attorney 108
Appendix D Sample Information Form to Take to Your Attorney to Start the Trust Process 116
Appendix E Sample Simple Trust 120
Appendix F Sample Pour-Over Will 160
Appendix G Sample Assignment of Assets to Trust 166
Glossary of Terms 169
Index 175