Should I have a living trust? It is a question that lingers in the minds of many, especially when contemplating the best way to manage and protect one’s assets during their lifetime and beyond. What exactly makes a living trust advantageous over other estate planning tools? Is it the potential to avoid probate, which can often be a lengthy and cumbersome process? Or perhaps it is the element of privacy that a living trust provides, allowing one’s financial affairs to remain confidential after passing? Furthermore, could the flexibility of a living trust, which permits modifications as circumstances evolve, be an enticing feature? What about the complexities involved in setting one up? Are the associated costs and legal intricacies worth the peace of mind that accompanies a well-structured estate plan? Could the nuances of individual financial situations make such a trust more or less beneficial? All of these considerations warrant careful contemplation as you navigate this pivotal decision.