Revocable Living Trusts in California – Avoid Probate & Protect Assets
A properly structured living trust is one of the most effective ways to avoid probate in California, protect your assets, and ensure your wishes are honored. At Newman Law Group, we help families throughout Tustin and Orange County create living trusts that offer peace of mind—during life and after.
Start With the Right Foundation: A Trust Built for California Law
California’s probate process is time-consuming, expensive, and public. But a revocable living trust gives you a smarter way to transfer assets, reduce stress, and stay in control. With our help, your trust will reflect your personal goals and your family’s unique needs.
We work with clients across Orange County—from Tustin and Irvine to Santa Ana and Anaheim—to design trusts that are easy to understand and even easier to maintain.
Why Choose a Living Trust?
Avoid Probate
California probate can take 12–18 months and cost thousands in fees. A living trust keeps your estate out of court.
Plan for Incapacity
If you become unable to manage your affairs, your successor trustee can step in immediately—no conservatorship required.
Keep It Private
Unlike a will, a trust is not filed in court. Your family’s affairs stay confidential and out of the public record.
How Do They Compare?
Living Trust vs. Will in California
Both are useful—but they serve different purposes. Here's how they differ:
Bullet Comparison:
- A will must go through probate. A
trust avoids it.
- A will only works after death. A
trust works during life and after.
- A will is public record. A
trust remains private.
- A will names guardians. A
trust manages assets.
How to Fund Your Living Trust
A trust only works if it holds your assets. That means retitling property, bank accounts, and business interests into the trust’s name. We walk you through the process and double-check everything with our dedicated funding coordinator.
Keep It Current: Update as Life Changes
Your trust should reflect your life today—not five years ago. At Newman Law Group, we offer ongoing support and client care programs to keep your plan up to date through marriages, births, deaths, property sales, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a living trust avoid probate in California?
By owning your assets in the name of your trust, there’s no need for the court to transfer them.
Do I still need a will if I have a trust?
Yes—you need a pour-over will to catch anything not titled in your trust.
Can I change my living trust later?
Absolutely. Revocable trusts can be amended or revoked at any time while you're living and competent.
What happens if I don’t fund my trust?
Your assets may still go through probate. Funding is essential.
Let’s Create a Plan That Lasts
Protect Your Family With a Trust That Works
From setup to funding to long-term maintenance, we’ll help you build a living trust that avoids probate and honors your legacy. Let’s plan with clarity—together.
