Ask a Lawyer: Wills and Trusts

Know your legal rights without spending a fortune in legal fees; get the advice of an expert for the cost of a book. It happens to everyone. You need legal help, but you have no idea what you're getting into or where to begin. The thought of hiring a personal attorney--and shelling out outrageous amounts of money in hourly legal fees--makes you cringe. Isn't there a better way? The Ask a Lawyer series arms you with practical, usable advice about common legal situations, answering your questions and familiarizing you with legal procedure before you ever set foot in a lawyer's office. Each book walks you through simple explanations of the law, legal definitions, tips, and sample scenarios, describing what will happen and what your options are. In some cases, these books can keep you from spending money on a lawyer you really never needed. Whether you ultimately decide to handle the matter by yourself or use an attorney's assistance for the completion of your plans, these books can easily save you thousands of dollars in the process. You may be avoiding the issue, but planning for your loved ones' future is essential to ensure eliminating legal tangles later. This book explains the basics of wills, trusts, and estate planning, including taking inventory and naming your beneficiaries, avoiding probate, eliminating estate taxes, choosing an executor, drawing up your will, getting a living trust and creating subtrusts for your spouse or your children, and giving gifts.