Best Trust Lawyers Phoenix, AZ
If you want to set up a trust, you may want to consult with the best trust lawyers Phoenix, AZ residents trust at Kamper & Estrada, PLLC. We have helped many people create trusts and want to make the process as simple as possible for you. With an experienced lawyer on your side to assist you with your trust, you may have a better peace of mind.
Will my estate be below the threshold for taxes?
The estate tax exemption says that if the total value of your estate is below the threshold then you’re estate won’t owe taxes when you die. Many people mistakenly believe their estate will be below the threshold. When you factor in the value of your real estate, your bank accounts, retirement accounts, and other valuable assets, your estate can quickly reach the limit and end up being taxed. In addition, taxes aren’t the only consideration when it comes to estate planning.
With help from the best trust lawyers in Phoenix, a proper and complete estate plan can be established which includes tax considerations, but will also attempt to protect your assets.
What is a living trust?
A living trust is a legal document where you place your assets in the name of the trust. During your lifetime, you continue using your assets as you normally would. Upon your death, your assets are held for your beneficiaries. A living trust allows you to distribute your assets to your heirs upon your death, like a will. It also allows you greater control. You could keep the assets in the trust, managed by a successor trustee, until your heirs reach a certain age or complete certain life events, like graduating college.
Does a living trust gives me more control?
While a will allows you to provide directions about which of your heirs receive which assets, that’s where your control ends. You can’t make a condition of the distribution that your heir has married, graduated college, had a child, or any other condition you can think of. As Arizona best trust lawyers in Phoenix may tell you, a living trust does provide you more control. It also provides a successor trustee so that, when you die, your successor trustee takes over and continues to manage the trust, ensuring it has the money for proper distribution. So if you have a young heir, your successor trustee can manage the assets you want to leave them until they reach adulthood.
Does a living trust avoid probate?
You may have heard that one of the most expensive parts of managing your estate after your death is probate. This is the legal process where the court determines the value of your estate and helps to distribute your assets to your heirs. Of course, they don’t do this for free. Your estate will go through probate even if you have a will. One way to avoid this costly legal process, however, is with a living trust. Because a living trust does not need to go through probate, the costs associated with your estate will be less. In addition, your heirs generally receive their distribution faster.
While a will costs less to draft, it also provides less protection for your heirs and your assets. In the end, by avoiding probate, a living will may cost less in the long run even though it may cost more to draft.
What are the benefits of setting up a trust?
By now, you likely are aware of how important estate planning is. You want to ensure your assets go to the right heirs upon your death. But is it better to set up a will or trust? Living trusts are less common than wills, but they can provide some wonderful benefits including:
- Probate Isn’t Required: As the best trust lawyers in AZ can attest, one of the main benefits of a living trust is that it does not have to go through a probate process. This means your heirs will not have to wait months or years to receive their assets. In fact, they can obtain their assets within weeks.
- There Is More Privacy: If you are a private person, a living trust may be your best option. Unlike a will, a living trust is not made public when you die. You won’t have to worry about strangers finding out information about your assets. Your estate will be distributed in private, so your family will be free from disturbances.
- Your Heirs Can Save Money on Taxes: Setting up a living trust can also help your heirs avoid paying an inheritance tax. This allows your heirs receive the full gift you gave them.
- It Can Provide Funds for Educational Purposes: With a trust, it is possible to provide money for college for your children, grandchildren, and other relatives.
- It Allows Flexible Distribution: If you set up a trust, you have more flexibility on how your assets will be distributed upon your death. For example, if a beneficiary is unable to manage money well, you could distribute funds in smaller amounts, so he or she will not be able to spend the money at once.
- There Are Fewer Family Feuds: Our legal team can tell you about how setting up trusts often eliminates family feuds. Living trusts are more customizable than wills and allow you to detail the exact items you want to give to each beneficiary. If it is clear who gets what, there will be fewer arguments.
I’m not married and I have no children. Should I still set up a trust?
It is very important for single people to pay attention to their estate planning. About half of older Americans are single and may face unique estate planning situations requiring advanced planning. These individuals would certainly benefit from the assistance with Phoenix, AZ best trust lawyers at Kamper & Estrada, PLLC. Our multi-generational firm has years of experience handling estate planning. If you’re searching for a dedicated legal team, we can help you set up a plan best suited to your situation.
What are some of the estate planning issues that specifically affect singles?
- Advanced Health Care Directives
- Pet Care
- Beneficiaries
Advanced Health Care Directives
Single people need to declare a decision maker in the event their health deteriorates or an accident leaves them unable to make decisions for themselves. If you are single, it is important to designate someone you can trust to make health care or financial decisions on your behalf in case of an emergency. If such provisions are not in place, the responsibility could fall on state-appointed strangers or very distant relatives. If the state cannot find a family member, they may look to an heir to act on your behalf. This person might not understand your wishes regarding medical attention, end of life care, organ donations, and other important issues.
An advanced health care directive should specifically outline your requests and answer important health care questions that may arise should you become unable to speak for yourself. In addition to an advanced health care directive, you should also sign a general power of attorney and a HIPAA authorization. This allows an individual you trust to make difficult decisions on your behalf. The best trust lawyers based in Phoenix can help you fill out these documents.
Pet Care
If you have pets, you’ll want to make certain that there are provisions for them in your estate plan. You will need a caretaker as well as someone to manage funds that are designated for the care of your pet. If you do not have specific instructions regarding your pet, they could end up in a shelter. Ask us about a “pet trust” and see if this is something that can be created in your state.
Beneficiaries
Retirement accounts, insurance policies, and bank accounts require holders to designate a beneficiary when the accounts are opened. Even if you have other instructions in your will, the beneficiary listed on these accounts will typically still receive preference. Make sure all your beneficiaries — including secondary beneficiaries — are updated and changed if necessary.
If you are single with minor children, having an estate plan is essential. You’ll want to set up a trust to oversee the financial welfare of your children. Single parents need to select a guardian for their children. If this is not done, your children may end up in the care of someone you would have not selected.
Contact Our Team For Prompt Assistance
Whether you are married or single, if you don’t have an estate plan, you’ll likely find yourself looking for the best trust lawyers in Phoenix, Arizona. We understand how overwhelming the estate planning process can be. That is why we want to help you with every step of the way. We can help you craft a comprehensive plan tailored to your situation to ensure that your wishes may be addressed exactly as you intended.
If you are searching for some of the best trust lawyers in the Arizona area, contact Kamper & Estrada, PLLC at 602-730-7988.
Testimonials
Mary K.
Great experience with Kamper Estrada. My husband and I completed our trust, living will and POA’s with the help of attorney Giancarlo at this office. He was wonderful to work with, patient and kind, answering all of our questions and giving us time to consider our decisions. The office staff was very pleasant and always courteous, treating us as valued clients. I would highly recommend this firm and attorney Estrada to anyone who needs legal help.
Corrina W.
Elizabeth and Tim Kamper were amazing to work with! They took care of our needs in a timely and efficient manner with zero pressure. We highly recommend Kamper Estrada.
Rameel I.
Kamper Estrada has taken care of my family and I multiple times now and each time we have been treated like family! They explain the process and I never felt rushed throughout everything. I appreciate all the hard work they put in and recommend them in anyone in the Valley!
Neil D.
Attorney Estrada was wonderful to work with. He answered all of my questions thoughtfully and explained the details of my trust in a language easily understood. I have already recommended his law firm and will continue to do so.
Sarah C.
I had a very serious car accident in 2013 in another state. And he had to work with 3 different insurances and out of state accident laws. I worked with Mr. Timothy Kamper who was referred to me by my supervisor at the time. And he was absolutely a miracle worker! He actually found a hidden policy and was HONEST with me about it and all of the money went to me and he did not take any fees out for himself. They are a family business and once you walk in you feel like part of the family! I have referred a few people to their law firm and they got them more money than was expected. I cannot recommend this law firm enough!
Jason M.
I was in an accident over a year ago which resulted in my car being totaled and needed medical care, including an overnight stay in the hospital and about six months of physical therapy. The driver at fault had only the minimal coverage for insurance, which wouldn’t even pay half of the outstanding liens from the hospital and my medical insurance. Elizabeth Kamper explained the process to me and was always willing to answer any questions throughout the lengthy process. In the end, I was able to pay of all the liens and have more than enough to recoup other medical expenses. Kamper and Estrada’s entire staff was extremely helpful and easy to work with.
Lona H.
My husband and I went to Kamper Estrada to do our estate planning. We worked with attorney Estrada and could not be happier with our service. We really had no idea what we needed or how the process worked. Mr. Estrada helped us choose a path that was right for us and walked us through every step. Mr. Estrada and his team made the process so easy for us, it was a great experience. We highly recommend Kamper & Estrada, PLLC. Everyone we dealt with, from the first phone call to the end of the entire process, was warm, caring, and genuinely cared that our needs were being met
Glenda K.
I was so pleased with the attention and concern I received from Kamper Estrada law firm. From the first call to the settlement they were always there to answer questions. Very promptly and thoroughly . I was glad they were referred to me. I would be happy to refer them to anyone. I hope I never have the need to use their services again. But if I do I will not hesitate to contact them.
Thank you Elizabeth for always making me feel that you cared and I wasn’t just a client.
Thank you Elizabeth for always making me feel that you cared and I wasn’t just a client.
Adam S.
Elizabeth did a wonderful job working with the insurance company after my family was involved in a car accident. She negotiated an amount that we could all agree on and even though we had several injuries we felt like Elizabeth got us a fair amount for the damages. Thank you Kamper Estrada!
Pamela M.
Elizabeth and Tim are extremely professional and have a wealth of knowledge to help you through the difficult process of working with the insurance companies. They take all the pressure off from you and guide you in the right direction for what ever is needed to get you back on your feet and to settle your case. They helped me when the car insurance company chose to play hard ball instead of doing the right thing. I would highly recommend Kamper Estrada, and will return to them again if the need arises!!!
Joanna P.
I was completely thrilled with the service I got from Elizabeth! She is incredibly smart and took me through the whole process step by step. It’s not the most simple or comfortable process to go through but Elizabeth made it comfortable and I was done in no time. I have referred 4 people to her and all of them feel the same way. She’s awesome. You will not regret hiring her!
Anna S.
Everyone who retains Elizabeth as their attorney will be very pleased with her work performance and the time she take to help. She is very know legible, professional, caring and very kind person. I highly recommend Elizabeth for anyone who is going through ruff times and feels like the bankruptcy is the only option. After talking with Elizabeth everyone will feel comfortable with having the peace of mind that whatever decision they make it will be based on full knowledge, understanding of the process and knowing that they are not alone and things will get better. I highly recommend Elizabeth and her partners. This is a great law firm.
Shawna N.
As victims of identity theft and after losing over $2,000 to another legal firm that did nothing to help us with ongoing threats of garnishments from credit card companies, we were on the verge of losing everything. I’d been trying and trying to locate someone who could help us with a bankruptcy because it was finally our only alternative. THANK GOD we found Elizabeth. From Day 1, she stopped garnishment actions and immediately got our case going. It was 5 years of feeling additionally crushed with the ‘stigma’ of bankruptcy and Elizabeth often held our hands with the emotional and financial upheavals. She not only knows her stuff (I’d hate to go up against her in a courtroom), but she is always there, always kept us informed, and guided us through those years with skill, support, and her knowing the ropes with navigating the sometimes craziness of dealing with a Chapter 13. Elizabeth and her firm are the ONLY attorneys I recommend after losing money to a supposed lawyer prior. She truly saved the day – and our sanity.
Maya L.
Elizabeth is knowledgeable, friendly and caring. She continues to assist us even though our case is closed with helping to tie up some loose ends.
Mark S.
Carlene and Elizabeth are excellent attorneys who care about their clients.
Tracy M.
Elizabeth saved us! She graciously took on our case that another attorney had completely messed up. We would highly recommend her firm!
Tom M.
My wife and I personally met with Giancarlo to get in order our affairs. The process was simple, and we truly felt that Giancarlo had our best interests in mind. Having this done is definitely a weight off my shoulders.
Mat B.
I’m currently in the process of working with Giancarlo for my estate planning needs and he has been extremely helpful in the process. I am assured that this process will be painless and Giancarlo has assured me if anything ever needs to change it’s not a big deal at all. I was recently able to refer a good friend whom was unfortunately in an accident to Beth, and I know she was very happy with the interaction throughout the whole case. A big shout out to Kamper, Estrada & Simmons! Do not hesitate to call them with any Personal Injury, Estate Planning or Bankruptcy needs!
Lisa D.
We were in a difficult situation and very personal situation when I met Carlene. I was comfortable sharing private details and she honored that privacy. She was easy to work with, straight forward and took care of every detail professionally. I highly recommend her to anyone in need.
Christine Gale.
Kamper and Simmons are a a great asset to the state of Arizona and to the families that live there. You won’t find a more dedicated and compassionate law firm anywhere. They are REAL PEOPLE!! they speak to you in a caring way that just makes one feel that they made the right choices. Please don’t change anything you do and keep up the GREAT WORK!
Vam.
Carlene has exceeded in meeting all my needs and lifting my spirit during this long procedure when I felt helpless and stupid. God bless you, Carlene.
Bobby.
In my panic. She Looked at my case and provided me with all my options. Kept in touch whenever I had a question. Personal and professional. Very happy to have been recommended to her and would definitely recommend her to anyone. I already have. Thanks Ms. Simmons.
Christine.
Carlene has always been dedicated to those she serves.. She is an excellent attorney and strives to make her clients feel comfortable while attending to those legal matters. She has answers to problems that without a doubt, would boggle someone who isn’t an attorney. She is fast and thorough in getting the job done. There is no one else like Carlene that can get the job done and maintain at all times, her professionalism. She has become a great friend to me and I will always cherish her 110% of her tenacity and eagerness to help people.
Manny Maldonado
Carlene was very understanding, she explained the process thru out the process. I’ve heard horror stories about the trustee that was assigned to me. Thanks to Carlene and her experience, the trustee worked with Carlene and I was able to get a repayment plan that was comfortable to me. It took five years and Carlene was there the whole time. Contacting her was easy. Email or phone, I was always able to get in contact with her. She always returned my calls. I would and have recommended Carlene. She is a good attorney. She will get you through your bankruptcy thru thick and thin. Thank you so much Carlene, Life is much better now.
Ruben.
In addition to her knowledge about the process of bankruptcy. Carlene became my “emotional rock” during the whole process from beginning to end. I don’t think that bankruptcy is an emotionally easy thing for most people. Carlene provided the emotional support I needed. I shall ever be grateful to her for that. Carlene represented me in a complicated case. She went above and beyond to help me. She even went out of her way to help when I had a death in the family. I give Carlene my highest recommendation. She cares about her clients and does exemplary work.
James.
Carlene Simmons handled a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy on my behalf. Carlene impressed me with her knowledge of what needed to be done from the beginning to end of the process. She answered all of my questions, kept in constant contact when I called or emailed her, always getting back to me in a timely manner, sometimes within the hour.
Jennifer.
During the most difficult and strenuous time in our lives, my husband and I were left with no choice but to file bankruptcy as we could not recover our finances with the loss of my job due to illness. We were referred to Carlene Simmons from a disability attorney I had met with. Carlene has held our hand through the entire process, simplifying it and making sure we were informed and understood every step. There were no surprises. She was extremely knowledgeable and sympathetic to our circumstances. We were very hesitant and nervous that something would go wrong but she took care of everything and our case was discharged without any problems at all, just as she said it would. We now have the fresh start we need to regain our finances and focus on my health. I would highly recommend Carlene as she was professional yet compassionate during this stressful time for us. I appreciate her and you will too if you choose to work with her. Thank you, Carlene!
Angel K.
I became very ill and like so many others saw my life spiral out of control financially. I gave up my career and moved to AZ in an attempt to gain some kind of control over the pain and the mess. Nightmare landlords and my inability to get a job added to an already unbearable situation. When I finally came to terms with the fact that bankruptcy was a part of the solution I went online to shop for a lawyer. I came up with three names from NOLO and called and interviewed all three. Carlene Simmons was the clear choice and I feel so lucky to have had her guidance through the process. That last sentence seems so trite considering all she did for me. I was stunned and devastated that I was going to not pay bills when paying bills had always determined what kind of person you are to me. I was going to lose everything including my self-worth and I could see nothing of my future. This woman was strong for me, a comfort to me and literally took my hand and guided me through the process, the offices, the courtrooms and my own emotional loss. If you are in need of good guidance, strong character and true professionalism please call these women. I am so, so glad I did.
Vicky DeNero.
I was completely thrilled with the service I got from Elizabeth! She is incredibly smart and took me through the whole process step by step. It’s not the most simple or comfortable process to go through but Elizabeth made it comfortable and I was done in no time. I have referred 4 people to her and all of them feel the same way. She’s awesome. You will not regret hiring her!
Marianne B.
When i first came to Elizabeth Kamper in 2009 to file for bankruptcy, i was nervous about what lie ahead of me. Elizabeth was very reassuring and knowledgeable. She answered all my husbands and my questions. We always felt like we were a priority and over the years we never felt forgotten. While the bankruptcy was an unfavorable experience, working with Elizabeth was always a pleasure.
Marlene B.
All I have to say about Elizabeth is Amazing! she is wonderful ..helpful kept me informed and explained everything to me step by step. Love her such a blessing !!! Elizabeth always returned my calls same day and answered all my questions. All I have to say she is amazing made this scary processes very easy for me.
Jackie
Elizabeth was extremely professional and helpful with excellent advice on actions that should be taken. She always gave us options, if there was more than one way to handle a situation, and then allowed us to make the final decision, never pushing one way or another. She always kept us informed with updates and responded quickly to any situations or issues. She went out of her way to accommodate us. I would highly recommend her.
Luna L.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for Attorney’s Giancarlo and Beth. Like many other people, I had never been in need of an attorney before. They patiently answered all my questions and made sure I was able to navigate the process with ease. I am grateful to them for their dedication, experience, reassurance, and above all, their honesty! Thank you!
