Wills and Trusts in Cranston RI: What You Need to Know
Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your assets and provide peace of mind for your family. Yet many Rhode Islanders delay creating a will or trust, often because the process feels overwhelming or because they assume it’s something only wealthy people need. The truth is, wills and trusts are essential tools for almost everyone.
At McCormick Law Offices, we guide families through every stage of estate planning with clarity and care. If you’re searching for information about wills and trusts in Cranston RI, here’s what you need to know.
Why Estate Planning Matters
Without a legally valid will or trust, your property and assets may be distributed according to Rhode Island’s intestacy laws—not your wishes. This can create confusion, family disputes, and lengthy probate proceedings. By planning ahead, you can:
- Decide who will inherit your property
- Name guardians for minor children
- Provide for a spouse or partner
- Protect assets from unnecessary taxes or disputes
- Ensure your healthcare wishes are honored
Whether you need a simple will or a more complex trust arrangement, taking action now helps secure your family’s future.
Understanding Wills
A will is a written legal document that states how you want your assets to be distributed after your death. It can also appoint guardians for your children and designate an executor to carry out your wishes.
Working with a will drafting attorney in Cranston ensures your document meets Rhode Island’s legal requirements. Common issues addressed in a will include:
- Distribution of property, bank accounts, and personal items
- Care of dependents and pets
- Charitable gifts or donations
- Appointment of an executor to manage the estate
Without a will, your family may face unnecessary stress and conflict during an already difficult time.
Understanding Trusts
A trust is a legal arrangement that allows you to place assets under the management of a trustee for the benefit of designated beneficiaries. Unlike wills, many trusts can help avoid probate, keeping your affairs private and saving time and expense for your loved ones.
Common types of trusts include:
- Revocable living trusts
- Irrevocable trusts
- Special needs trusts
- Testamentary trusts (established through a will)
A trust formation lawyer in Rhode Island can help determine which type of trust best fits your goals.
Wills vs. Trusts: Which Is Right for You?
While both wills and trusts provide essential protections, they serve different purposes.
- Wills are typically simpler and less expensive to create. They direct the court on how to distribute assets but must go through probate.
- Trusts may cost more to establish but offer benefits such as avoiding probate, protecting privacy, and providing more detailed control over when and how beneficiaries receive assets.
For many families, the best solution is to use both. A will ensures no asset is overlooked, while a trust provides additional protections.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to wills and trusts in Cranston RI, families often make these avoidable mistakes:
- Putting off planning until it’s too late
- Using online forms without legal guidance
- Forgetting to update documents after major life changes
- Not coordinating estate planning with tax or financial planning
- Failing to appoint reliable executors or trustees
An experienced Cranston wills and trusts lawyer can help you avoid these pitfalls.
How McCormick Law Can Help
With over 30 years of experience, McCormick Law Offices has helped families across Rhode Island create customized wills and trusts tailored to their needs. Our services include:
- Drafting wills that meet Rhode Island legal standards
- Establishing revocable and irrevocable trusts
- Advising on guardianship and healthcare proxies
- Coordinating estate planning with probate strategies
- Updating documents as your life circumstances change
We take the time to explain your options in clear, straightforward language so you can make informed decisions about your future.
Secure Your Family’s Future Today
Estate planning isn’t just about preparing for the end of life—it’s about protecting your family now and for generations to come. By working with McCormick Law Offices, you’ll gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing your wishes will be honored and your loved ones provided for.
To learn more, visit our probate and wills page or contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided on this website, including all blog posts, resources, and service descriptions, is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While McCormick Law Offices strives to keep content accurate and up to date, the law is constantly evolving, and the information presented may not reflect the most recent legal developments or apply to your particular circumstances.
No attorney-client relationship is established by viewing this website, filling out a contact form, or engaging with our content. An attorney-client relationship with McCormick Law Offices is only formed through a signed written agreement.
You should not act or rely on any information on this site without first consulting a qualified attorney regarding your specific legal matter. Any links to third-party websites are provided for convenience only and do not imply endorsement or responsibility for their content.
McCormick Law Offices serves clients primarily in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Legal services are provided in accordance with the applicable laws and ethical rules of these jurisdictions.
If you need legal advice or representation, please contact our office directly to schedule a confidential consultation.
