Tom’s passing brought a wave of grief, but it also opened a Pandora’s box of complications for his family. He had a will, but no other estate planning measures in place. What followed was a grueling year of probate—court hearings, legal fees, and heated arguments among his children. The sentimental attachment to a few family heirlooms became the catalyst for irreparable rifts.
Probate, the legal process of settling an estate, is meant to provide structure and fairness. Yet, for many families, it’s an expensive, time-consuming, and emotionally taxing ordeal. In Colorado, probate fees can soar, and the process often drags on for months, if not years. Moreover, probate is public, meaning anyone can access the details of your estate.
Contrast Tom’s experience with Sarah’s. Sarah had taken proactive steps by creating a revocable living trust years before her passing. Her trust allowed her assets to bypass probate entirely. Upon her death, her successor trustee distributed assets directly to the intended beneficiaries, sparing her family from court proceedings and preserving the peace.
A revocable living trust works by transferring ownership of your assets to the trust during your lifetime. You retain control as the trustee, but upon your death, a successor trustee steps in to handle distributions. This simple step can save families untold stress and expense.
Avoiding probate is more than a financial decision; it’s a gift of time and peace to your loved ones. Without the shadow of court proceedings, families can focus on honoring their departed and moving forward together. If you want to ensure your family avoids unnecessary disputes and delays, register for a workshop today to learn how we can help.