Trusts: What Do They Actually Do?

When it comes to estate planning, everything can feel overwhelming.  We see clients stuck and unable to see a path forward for all kinds of reasons.  Whether it’s the discomfort of thinking about your mortality and how things will go for your family if you weren’t around, or the fact that the internet is throwing information out that can seem contradictory or just like it’s too much, we help navigate through all of that to make sure you and your family have the plan needed.  At Wakefield Law, we specialize in estate planning for families and individuals all over Virginia.  We prioritize protecting your family, avoiding probate, and planning for future generations – often, a trust is the perfect tool to exercise that control and give that elusive peace of mind about a troubling subject.

Here are three powerful benefits of creating a trust—and how Wakefield Law makes the process simple and as accessible as possible:

1. Avoiding Probate and Preserving Privacy

One of the most well-known advantages of a trust is avoiding probate—the often slow, public, and costly court process that governs the distribution of a will. Assets placed in a trust can pass directly to your beneficiaries without court involvement, saving time and keeping your affairs private.

Why it matters: Probate in Virginia can take months or even years and can expose your family’s financial details to public record. A trust ensures your loved ones aren’t left navigating red tape during an already difficult time.

2. Greater Control and Flexibility Over Your Assets

Unlike a simple will, a trust gives you precise control over how and when your assets are distributed. You can set conditions—such as age, milestones, or staggered distributions—which is especially valuable if you have young children, family members with special needs, or complex family dynamics.

Why it matters: A trust lets you make decisions now that will protect and support your family long into the future, exactly how you intend—not just what the law dictates.

3. Seamless Coordination with Your Financial Life

A trust is more than just a legal document—it’s a key part of your overall financial picture. That’s why our firm takes a collaborative approach, working closely with your financial planner and accountant to ensure your trust is fully aligned with your investment strategy, tax goals, and retirement planning.

Why it matters: A well-drafted trust without integration into your broader financial plan can lead to missed opportunities or unintended consequences. We help avoid that by working with the whole team.

 Why Clients Choose Wakefield Law:

We believe estate planning should be personal, transparent, and as stress-free as possible.  We try to bring the process to you, if possible. Here’s how we deliver on that goal:

• Free Consultations: We offer complimentary initial meetings so you can understand your options without pressure or commitment.

• Flat Fees, No Surprises: Our estate plan packages are offered at flat rates, so you’ll know exactly what to expect—no hourly billing or hidden fees.

• Fully Customized Plans: Every trust and estate plan is tailored to your family’s unique needs, values, and goals. We don’t do cookie-cutter solutions.

• Collaborative Planning: We’ll work with your trusted financial advisor and CPA to build a plan that supports your full financial future.

• Virtual Meetings and Handicap Accessible Office:  We can have all of your meetings through the estate planning process virtually through video call, or by phone call.  We love meeting in person, but many of our clients have mobility challenges or busy schedules, so we can work with you to get the documents done without undue discomfort and causing extra delays in scheduling. Also, our office is outfitted with a low-grade ramp and railings to make entering our office as accessible as possible for all of our clients.

Ready to Get Started?  Give us a call or shoot us an email!

If you're considering a trust—or simply want to explore whether it's right for your family—we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We can walk you through all of the options, their benefits and drawbacks, and make the process as straightforward as possible.  703.771.9740 or law@wakefieldpllc.com