Nov 10, 2025
Couple,Meeting,With,a trust attorney

A trust can be one of the most effective ways to protect your assets and secure your family’s future. However, it’s not always the right fit for everyone. Knowing when to create a trust can help you make confident, informed choices about your estate and your legacy.

At Parakletos Law in Ottawa County, MI, our experienced attorneys guide individuals and families through every step of the estate planning process. We’ll help you determine if a trust aligns with your goals, your values, and your financial situation. Whether you’re looking to protect loved ones, manage your assets, or avoid unnecessary court delays, our team is here to help.

If you’re ready to explore your options, call 616-984-1606 or Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

1. You Want to Protect Your Finances If You Become Incapacitated

It’s never easy to think about losing control over your financial affairs, but planning ahead ensures your wishes are respected no matter what happens. A trust allows you to appoint a successor trustee who can manage your assets if you’re unable to do so due to illness, injury, or cognitive decline.

This type of planning eliminates the need for lengthy court proceedings and guarantees a smooth transition of control. A trust also gives you peace of mind knowing your finances will be handled responsibly without placing a burden on your family.

2. You Want to Avoid Probate

Probate can be a lengthy, expensive, and public process. When your estate goes through probate, your family must wait months—or even years—before receiving what you’ve left for them. Creating a trust allows your assets to pass directly to your beneficiaries, avoiding the delays, costs, and complications of probate.

Certain types of trusts, like revocable living trusts, give you flexibility and control during your lifetime while still simplifying asset transfer later. Others, such as irrevocable trusts, offer stronger protection against taxes or creditors. The attorneys at Parakletos Law can help you decide which option best fits your family’s needs.

3. You Want to Control How and When Assets Are Distributed

A trust allows you to set clear terms for how your assets are distributed after you pass. If you’re concerned about leaving a large inheritance to a young or financially inexperienced beneficiary, you can direct how the funds are used—such as for education, buying a home, or medical care—and decide when they receive them.

This thoughtful approach helps ensure your assets are used wisely and according to your wishes. It’s an act of love and protection that can support your family for generations.

When Should You Consider Creating a Trust?

While every situation is unique, creating a trust can be especially valuable if:

  • You own real estate, investments, or a business.
  • You have a blended family and want to ensure fair inheritance distribution.
  • You want to reduce estate taxes or protect assets from creditors.
  • You’re preparing for long-term care or potential incapacity.
  • You value privacy and wish to keep your estate out of public probate records.

If any of these situations sound familiar, it’s worth consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney to discuss how a trust could fit into your plan.

Talk to a Trust Attorney in Ottawa County, MI Today!

Deciding whether a trust is right for your family doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Parakletos Law, we take a personal approach to estate planning—listening to your story, understanding your goals, and crafting a plan that gives you peace of mind.

Our attorneys combine legal precision with compassion, ensuring your plan reflects both your financial intentions and your family’s values. To learn more or start your estate plan, Contact us today or call 616-984-1606 to start your consultation.