Wills vs. Trusts: Which Option Fits Your Family?
A will is instructions to the probate court. A revocable living trust handles your estate privately and protects you during incapacity. Understanding the differences helps you make the right decision.
- ✓Discuss the scope and responsibilities before work begins
- ✓Ask about plan reviews when your circumstances change
- ✓Review trust funding responsibilities for your assets
- ✓On average, our clients pay about half compared to a traditional law firm.
Protect Your Family
Don't let cost be the reason your family goes unprotected. Our estate planning packages make it easy for every Arizona family to secure their future.
Call Now for Immediate Assistance
(480) 346-3570Free consultation available. Let's find the right solution for your family.
On average, our clients pay about half compared to a traditional law firm.
RJP helps coordinate your planning. Clients separately consult the independent attorneys we work with for legal advice and document preparation.
Affordable Estate Planning Services
Start with your family, your property and your goals. RJP provides nonlegal planning support; independent attorneys provide legal advice and prepare legal documents.
Living Trusts
Discuss a living trust, asset ownership and funding responsibilities with RJP and the independent attorneys we work with.
Learn More About Living TrustsSimple Wills
Discuss estate instructions, beneficiaries and guardian nominations with the independent attorneys we work with.
Learn More About Simple WillsPowers of Attorney
Discuss financial and healthcare authority, agent choices and when each document takes effect.
Learn More About Powers of AttorneyPlanning Next Steps
Discuss the documents and support that fit your circumstances. Confirm the scope and responsibilities before work begins.
Learn More About Planning Next StepsWhat's Included with Your Estate Plan
We believe comprehensive estate planning should be affordable for every family. Our complete packages include everything you need to protect your loved ones.
Living trust, pour-over will, and powers of attorney
Complete trust funding assistance by a planning specialist
Complimentary reviews every 3 to 5 years for life
Document updates when Arizona laws change
Prepaid settlement support package
Most Valuable BenefitSuccessor trustee guidance at no extra cost
Power of Attorney medical ID cards
E-Vault storage of your documents
Notary services and asset protection guidance
Visit Our Arizona Office Locations
Convenient locations throughout Arizona to serve you better.
Scottsdale Office
Address:
4110 N. Scottsdale Road #170
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Phone: (480) 346-3570
Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM
Tucson Office
Address:
5151 E. Broadway Blvd, #750
Tucson, AZ 85711
Phone: (480) 346-3570
Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM
Ready to Get Started with Your Estate Plan?
See why over 45,000 Arizona families have chosen RJP Estate Planning for affordable, comprehensive protection.
Understanding Wills vs. Trusts in Arizona
Every Arizona family needs proper estate planning. Understanding the differences helps you make the right choice for protecting your loved ones.
Last Will & Testament
Essential for Every Family
•Takes Effect After Death
Only becomes active when you pass away
•Goes Through Probate
Court supervised process for estates over $200,000
•Becomes Public Record
Anyone can access your will after probate
•Names Guardians
Designates who cares for minor children
•Lower Initial Cost
More affordable to set up initially
Best For:
- ✓ Simple estates under $200,000
- ✓ Young families with minor children
- ✓ Those seeking basic protection
- ✓ Budget-conscious planning
Living Trust
Complete Protection & Control
•Works During Life & Death
Protects you if incapacitated and after death
•Avoids Probate
No court involvement, saving time and money
•Stays Private
Your affairs remain confidential
•Incapacity Protection
Manages assets if you become disabled
•Greater Control
Detailed instructions for asset distribution
Best For:
- ✓ Estates over $200,000
- ✓ Homeowners
- ✓ Privacy-conscious individuals
- ✓ Complex asset distribution
How Wills & Trusts Work Together
For comprehensive protection, most Arizona families benefit from having both documents. Here's why:
Pour-Over Will
Even with a trust, you need a will to catch any assets not transferred to the trust and name guardians for minor children.
Complete Coverage
The trust handles major assets and avoids probate, while the will provides backup protection and guardian designations.
Cost-Effective Planning
Our affordable packages include both documents, ensuring you have complete protection without breaking the bank.
What Our Clients Say
“Everyone was friendly and knowledgeable. We especially enjoyed our time with Ralph and Onyx.”
“”
“”
Frequently Asked Questions
Get clear answers to common estate planning questions specific to Arizona law.
What is the difference between a will and a trust in Arizona?
A will goes through probate after death. A trust avoids probate and transfers assets privately. Most Arizona families use both together for full protection.
Read full answerDo I need a will if I already have a Living Trust?
Yes. A pour-over will catches assets not in your trust and names a guardian for minor children. Only a will can handle these critical tasks.
Read full answerWhat is a living trust in Arizona and how does it work?
A living trust in Arizona lets you transfer assets into a trust you control during your lifetime. When you pass, a successor trustee distributes assets privately, without probate.
Read full answerWhat happens if I die without a will in Arizona?
Without a will in Arizona, your assets go through intestacy. The court distributes property using a fixed formula based on family relationships, not your wishes.
Read full answerHow is a trust different from a will in terms of privacy?
A will becomes public record in probate. A trust stays private because it never goes through court. Only the people you choose know the details of your estate plan.
Read full answerStill Have Questions?
Our estate planning specialists are here to help. Schedule your free consultation to get personalized answers.