North Carolina Living Trust Attorney
Everyone seems to want to know how they can keep their estate out of probate after they die. Probably the most common way is by putting your assets into a living trust. If you live in North Carolina, the next question after that usually is: Do I need a North Carolina living trust attorney to do that? The answer, as usual is: "It Depends." Technically you do not have to have a lawyer prepare your living trust. You can do it yourself using many resources on the web (and elsewhere); some of which are even free. But, you know the old saying that "you get what your pay for." And when it comes to something as complicated as a living trust, the old saw is certainly true. Living trusts are not necessarily complicated. But, what is complicated is you. You likely have many complex relationships, assets, liabilities and just generally -- issues that need to be considered when the trust is drafted. This can only happen if you discuss these things with a professional and they craft your own unique living trust. That is clearly the way to go. But if you still wonder, check out Don't Do Your Own Living Trust. If you've spent some time on this site you know that there are many pros and cons to having a living trust. But, it is worth pointing out that if you own property (even a time-share) out of state -- you have an extra incentive to put that property into your living trust. Why? Because that way your heirs can avoid having to probate that property in an out-of-state court. What a pain that would be! However, this brings us back to why you really should talk to a professional before acting on your own. The reason is that if the property has a mortgage; title insurance; or homeowner insurance -- those things could be adversely affected by the property being titled in the name of the trust. Also, if a married couple owns property together in North Carolina, it is difficult for a creditor to attach it to pay a debt of one of the spouses. Whether that issue is much of a concern or not to you is exactly the kind of thing you should discuss with a qualified and experienced North Carolina living trust attorney. If you already know a good living trust attorney, licensed in NC; then you are set. But, if you don't -- whether you live in Raleigh; Fayetteville, or Hickory -- you can use the services of Legal Match to find the perfect North Carolina living trust attorney for you.
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