A will is typically less expensive to create upfront, often costing a few hundred dollars. However, the costs associated with probate (court fees, attorney fees, etc.) can be significant and are paid from your estate after your death.

A trust has a higher initial cost, often ranging from a few thousand dollars, as it's a more complex legal document that requires careful preparation and funding. Despite the higher upfront cost, a well-drafted and funded trust can save your beneficiaries substantial time and money by avoiding probate entirely.

Yes, trusts offer significant privacy. When a will goes through probate, it becomes a public record, meaning anyone can access the document and see who inherited what. A trust is a private legal document, and its details, including your assets and beneficiaries, are kept confidential. This privacy is a major advantage for many families who wish to keep their financial affairs out of the public eye.

Without a legally valid will or trust, your estate may be subject to your state’s intestacy laws. This means the court will decide how your assets are distributed, and it may not align with your wishes. In addition, your estate will be required to go through the lengthy, public, and expensive probate process. The absence of a trust means your family's financial details will become a matter of public record, and a judge will have to appoint a guardian for your minor children, rather than a person you chose. A solid estate plan provides peace of mind, protecting your family, your privacy, and your legacy.