Revocable Trusts
Plan Ahead with Comfort and Control
A revocable trust—sometimes called a living trust—is one of the most effective tools for managing your estate while you’re alive and ensuring your wishes are carried out after you’re gone. It offers flexibility, privacy, and peace of mind, helping you avoid probate and maintain control over your assets.
At our Carlsbad office, we take the time to explain what a revocable trust is, how it works, and whether it fits your specific goals. Andy Fesler will meet with you personally to build a plan that’s clear, practical, and designed around your family’s future.
What a Revocable Trust Can Do for You & Your Family
Avoid Probate
One of the most valuable benefits of a revocable trust is that it allows your assets to pass directly to your beneficiaries without going through California’s lengthy and costly probate process.
Maintain Privacy
Unlike a will, which becomes public record during probate, a revocable trust keeps your financial affairs private—protecting your loved ones from unnecessary stress or scrutiny.
Stay in Control While You’re Able
You retain full control of the trust during your lifetime and can modify or revoke it at any time. It adapts as your life does—whether your assets, relationships, or priorities change.
Plan for Incapacity
If you become unable to manage your affairs due to illness or injury, your named successor trustee can step in and manage things for you—without the need for court involvement.
Simplify Distribution
A trust allows you to spell out exactly how, when, and to whom your assets are distributed. This can prevent family disputes and ensure your intentions are followed.
Asset Protection for your Heirs
By holding assets in trust rather than distributing them outright, you can shield what you leave behind from creditors, lawsuits, and even divorce. Whether your beneficiaries are still young or just navigating complex lives, this extra layer of protection gives them time, flexibility, and financial stability when they need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions About Revocable Trusts
Because the Right Questions Lead to the Right Plan
What’s the difference between a revocable trust and a will?
A will directs how your assets are handled after your death—but it typically goes through probate. A revocable trust allows your assets to pass more quickly, privately, and often with fewer costs or complications.
Can I change my revocable trust later?
Yes, and that’s part of what makes it so useful. As long as you’re alive and of sound mind, you can amend or revoke your trust whenever your circumstances change.
Who manages the trust when I can’t?
You’ll name a successor trustee—someone you trust—to step in and manage the trust if you become incapacitated or after your death. This person ensures everything is handled according to your instructions.
Do I still need a will if I have a trust?
Yes—a pour-over will is typically included to cover any assets that weren’t transferred into the trust during your lifetime. It ensures those assets still end up where you intended.
How do I know if a trust is right for me?
That’s what we’re here to talk about. We’ll walk through your specific needs, explain your options clearly, and help you decide if a revocable trust is the right tool for your plan.
