By Lei Jiang, Esq., Lei Jiang LLC.
A trust is built from three things: your family, your assets, and your wishes. The more of this information you bring to your first meeting, the faster your attorney can draft a trust that actually fits you. You do not need everything perfect — bring what you have.
Your family. Full names and relationships: your spouse, children, grandchildren, and anyone else you want to provide for. Note minor children, and whether anyone has special needs that affect how they should inherit.
Your assets. A list is enough — exact values are not required at first. Include real estate (addresses and deeds if you have them), bank and brokerage accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance, and any business interests.
Your existing documents. Bring copies of your current will, any prior trusts, powers of attorney, health care directives, and deeds. Your attorney needs to see what is already in place before drafting something new.
Your choices. Think about who should serve as trustee and successor trustee, who should be guardian for minor children, and who should make health care decisions if you cannot. Also consider how and when beneficiaries should receive assets — all at once, or in stages.
Anything unusual. Non-U.S. assets, a prior marriage or blended family, charitable wishes, or a family business all affect the design. Mention them early.
What to do next: gather these five groups before your meeting, bring copies rather than originals, and do not email sensitive numbers. Your attorney will fill the gaps with you — but starting organized saves time and legal fees.
Questions? Contact us at info@leijianglaw.com or (440) 835-2271, or book a free 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/leijianglaw-info/15-minute-consultation
This article is general information, not legal advice for your situation.