Clermont Trust Attorney
You want to know that your family will be cared for, your wishes will be followed, and your assets will not be tied up in confusing court processes. Working with an attorney gives you a clear plan instead of uncertainty. Our goal is to turn complicated Florida rules into a manageable path forward.
At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we help people in Clermont and throughout Lake County design and manage trusts that fit their real lives. Whether you are planning ahead, updating old documents, or trying to handle a loved one’s affairs after a loss, we walk you through each decision in plain language.
Our team brings over 40 years of combined experience to every trust matter. We have grown with this community and routinely guide clients through estate issues. You get a steady team that knows the local courts and treats your future as something that matters deeply.
Call (888) 835-5840 to schedule a time to talk with our team.
What is a Trust?
A trust is a legal arrangement in which one person, known as the grantor or settlor, transfers assets to a trustee who manages those assets for the benefit of designated beneficiaries. Trusts can hold many types of property, including:
- Real estate
- Bank accounts
- Investments
- Business interests
- Life insurance proceeds
- Personal property
Unlike a simple will, a trust can become effective during your lifetime and continue operating after your death. Depending on the type of trust created, you may maintain control over the assets while alive or transfer management responsibilities to another party.
Trusts are commonly used in estate planning because they provide greater flexibility and control over how assets are distributed. They can also help families avoid probate, minimize disputes, and maintain privacy.
Common Types of Trusts
There are several different types of trusts available under Florida law. The right option depends on your goals, financial circumstances, and family dynamics.
Revocable Living Trusts
A revocable living trust allows you to maintain control of your assets during your lifetime while providing instructions for asset distribution after death. Because the trust is revocable, you can modify or revoke it at any time while you are mentally competent.
Benefits of a revocable trust may include:
- Avoiding probate
- Maintaining privacy
- Simplifying asset management
- Planning for incapacity
- Faster asset distribution to beneficiaries
Irrevocable Trusts
An irrevocable trust generally cannot be modified once it is created. While this type of trust involves giving up some control, it can provide important financial and legal advantages.
Irrevocable trusts are often used for:
- Asset protection
- Tax planning
- Medicaid planning
- Protecting inheritances
- Charitable giving
Special Needs Trusts
A special needs trust helps provide financial support for a person with disabilities without jeopardizing eligibility for government benefits such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
These trusts may cover expenses related to:
- Medical care
- Education
- Housing
- Transportation
- Recreational activities
Testamentary Trusts
A testamentary trust is created through a will and becomes effective after death. These trusts are often used to provide ongoing financial support for minor children or beneficiaries who may not be ready to manage assets independently.
Charitable Trusts
Charitable trusts allow individuals to support charitable organizations while potentially receiving tax benefits and preserving wealth for heirs.
Spendthrift Trusts
Spendthrift trusts help protect beneficiaries from creditors and poor financial decisions by limiting direct access to trust assets.
How a Clermont Trust Lawyer Can Help
Trust law can be complex, and mistakes in drafting or administration can create costly legal problems later. An experienced attorney can assist with every stage of the process, including:
- Evaluating estate planning goals
- Recommending appropriate trust options
- Drafting legally sound trust documents
- Coordinating wills and powers of attorney
- Funding trusts properly
- Modifying existing trusts
- Assisting trustees with administration duties
- Resolving trust disputes
At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we work closely with clients to create personalized estate plans designed to protect their families and assets for generations.
To get started on setting up or updating a trust, contact our firm today.
Voices of Victory
4.8 Google Rating from 150 of our Clients
-
“Angela Alcime was a Godsend who helped us navigate some muddy waters and resolve some tough issues. She really knows what she's doing. More than that, she actually cares.”- David L.
-
“We were so pleased and appreciative of the friendliness and professionalism of Mr. Rickman and the staff that we couldn’t have been happier.”- Gregg S.
-
“Angela was exceptional in assisting my family. Within a 5-minute conversation, she knew exactly how to assist my family and worked within our time constraints.”- Norma V.
-
“If you want a upfront, straight forward, professional go-getter, Justin and his team are all that and more!”- Nathan P.
-
“He and his staff made me feel like my needs were a priority, exuded professionalism, and I always felt like I had an advocate in my corner.”- Christopher F.
-
“He is a straight shooter and doesn't sugar coat, which was also very appreciated. I recommend Justin 100% and would definitely use him again if the need arises.”- Shannon Z.
-
“I will always continue to recommend Mr. Rickman to anyone in need and I am confident that him and his team will be able to take care of them!”- Brandon T.
-
“I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a good attorney. I am very thankful for his service and kindness.”- Jimmy
Benefits of Trusts
Trusts offer many advantages beyond basic estate planning. Depending on your situation, establishing a trust may help protect your assets and provide long-term security for your family.
Avoiding Probate
One of the primary reasons people create trusts is to avoid probate. Probate can be time-consuming, expensive, and stressful for surviving family members. Assets held in a properly funded trust typically pass directly to beneficiaries without going through probate court.
Privacy Protection
Probate proceedings are generally public records in Florida. Trusts, however, allow families to maintain privacy regarding financial matters and asset distribution.
Greater Control Over Asset Distribution
Trusts allow you to specify when and how beneficiaries receive assets. This can be particularly important when providing for:
- Minor children
- Beneficiaries with disabilities
- Individuals with spending problems
- Blended families
- Long-term care needs
Incapacity Planning
If you become incapacitated, a successor trustee can step in and manage trust assets on your behalf without requiring court intervention.
Asset Protection
Certain trusts can help shield assets from creditors, lawsuits, and financial risks.
Tax Planning Opportunities
Some trust structures may help reduce estate taxes and preserve more wealth for future generations.
Is a Trust Right for Me?
Not everyone needs the same estate planning tools. However, trusts may be beneficial if you:
- Own significant assets
- Want to avoid probate
- Have minor children
- Own a business
- Have a blended family
- Want to maintain privacy
- Have a loved one with special needs
- Wish to protect assets from creditors
- Own property in multiple states
- Want detailed control over inheritance distributions
A Clermont trust lawyer can evaluate your circumstances and recommend an estate planning strategy that aligns with your goals.
The Importance of Proper Trust Funding
Creating a trust is only one part of the process. To function properly, the trust must also be funded. Funding a trust involves transferring ownership of assets into the trust’s name.
Common examples include:
- Retitling real estate
- Updating bank accounts
- Assigning investment accounts
- Naming trusts as beneficiaries when appropriate
Failure to properly fund a trust may result in assets still being subject to probate. Working with an attorney helps ensure all necessary steps are completed correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Several FAQs about trusts include the following:
Do trusts avoid probate in Florida?
Yes. Assets properly transferred into a trust generally avoid probate proceedings in Florida, allowing beneficiaries to receive assets more efficiently.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will provides instructions for asset distribution after death and usually requires probate. A trust can manage assets during your lifetime and after death while often avoiding probate.
Can I change my trust later?
If you establish a revocable living trust, you can typically modify or revoke it while you remain mentally competent. Irrevocable trusts usually cannot be changed without court approval or beneficiary consent.
Do I still need a will if I have a trust?
Yes. Many people with trusts also create a “pour-over will” to address assets not transferred into the trust before death.
How much does it cost to create a trust?
The cost depends on the complexity of your estate plan and the type of trust involved. More advanced trusts may require additional planning and legal documentation.
Who should serve as trustee?
A trustee should be someone trustworthy, organized, and capable of managing financial responsibilities. Many people choose a family member, trusted friend, professional fiduciary, or financial institution.
Are trusts only for wealthy individuals?
No. Trusts can benefit individuals and families with a wide range of financial situations. Even modest estates may benefit from avoiding probate and simplifying asset distribution.
Our Core Values
We always provide our clients with a realistic assessment of their likelihood of success and are driven by three core values:
-
True Commitment
At our firm, unwavering dedication defines everything we do. We stand by our clients with integrity, diligence, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
-
Delivery of Effective Results
We are a dedicated team of legal professionals committed to delivering strategic, timely, and results-driven solutions tailored to our clients' needs.
-
Bang for Your Buck
We want you to receive maximum value for your legal investment - experienced representation, transparent pricing, and results that matter.