Trusts

Structured planning that protects your priorities

Planning ahead with the right trust

Protecting assets and simplifying the future

Trusts give you greater control over how your assets are managed today and distributed tomorrow. They can streamline estate administration, maintain privacy, and reduce the burden on loved ones during difficult times. At Parker & Maloney, we craft trusts that reflect your goals, family dynamics, and financial picture with clear language and practical structure. Our team advises you on trust selection, funding, and ongoing administration so your plan works as intended.

Understanding how trusts work

A foundation for security and flexibility

A trust is a legal arrangement where a trustee holds and manages assets for named beneficiaries under written instructions. You decide what the trustee can do, when distributions should occur, and how specific circumstances are handled. During your lifetime, a revocable trust can be adjusted as your needs evolve; after death, it becomes irrevocable and guides asset transfers without a court process. Successor trustees step in seamlessly if you’re unable to manage affairs, ensuring continuity and clarity. With the right structure, a trust supports your intentions with less delay, less confusion, and fewer administrative hurdles.

Types of trusts we prepare

Finding the right fit for your goals

Every plan is customized, but clients often choose among several proven options:


  • Revocable living trusts – Maintain control of assets during life, provide incapacity planning, and support a more efficient estate settlement for your beneficiaries.


  • Irrevocable trusts – Offer stronger asset protection and purpose-driven structures (for example, legacy planning or charitable intent) while limiting later changes.


  • Specialized trusts – Address focused objectives such as care for a loved one with special needs, long-term stewardship of a family asset, a pet, or charitable gifts over time.


We explain pros and cons in plain language and help you align each tool with your broader estate plan.

Keeping your trust up to date

Regular reviews for lasting protection

As your life and finances change, so should your trust. We recommend reviewing your trust periodically to ensure it reflects your current wishes and complies with evolving laws. Major life events—such as marriage, property purchases, or changes in beneficiaries—often require updates. Our firm makes this process simple, helping you revise documents quickly and accurately. Maintaining an updated trust ensures your assets remain protected and your intentions are honored.

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Why work with an experienced trust attorney

Experience that brings clarity and confidence

Trusts depend on precise terms, consistent administration, and coordination with the rest of your estate plan. Much like a business entity, a trust must be structured thoughtfully to function properly and remain enforceable over time. Our team focuses on clear instructions, practical guidance, and real-world planning that helps trustees carry out their duties without confusion. We also support successor trustees so transitions happen smoothly and records stay organized from the start. When updates or amendments are needed, we ensure changes are completed correctly so the trust continues to serve its purpose when your family needs it most.

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Common questions about trusts

Answers to help you make informed choices

  • What problems does a trust actually solve?

    A trust provides organized management during your life, a clear process if you become unable to act, and efficient transfers to beneficiaries after death. It helps reduce the need for court involvement and keeps sensitive details private. Precise instructions also reduce the chance of conflict among family members. The overall effect is less administrative stress and more certainty for the people you care about.

  • Do I still need a will if I have a trust?

    Yes, most people pair a trust with a simple “pour-over” will. The will serves as a safety net to capture any assets not already in the trust. Together they create a coherent, complete plan for both expected and unexpected situations. This combination closes gaps and prevents avoidable confusion.

  • Who should serve as my trustee or successor trustee?

    Choose someone organized, trustworthy, and able to follow instructions under pressure. Some clients prefer a professional fiduciary when family dynamics are complex or asset management requires specialized expertise. We help you weigh independence, availability, and skill when selecting candidates. Clear guidance in the document makes the role easier to fulfill.

  • Can I change my trust later?

    If the trust is revocable, you can amend or restate it as your life changes. If it is irrevocable, options are more limited but planning techniques may still offer flexibility within legal bounds. We’ll explain how proposed updates affect your structure and beneficiaries. Regular reviews keep the plan current and effective.

  • How do I make sure my trust actually works when needed?

    Proper funding, organized records, and clear successor instructions are essential. We provide a funding checklist, coordination letters, and practical steps for trustees to follow. Beneficiary designations are reviewed so they align with the trust’s terms. This preparation minimizes delays and supports smooth administration.