The Truth About Trusts: Tackling Setup Costs and Complexity

When it comes to estate planning, trusts often get a bad rap.

People hear the word and immediately think:

• Expensive to set up

• Too complicated to understand

• Only for the wealthy

The reality? Trusts can be one of the most powerful and practical tools in your estate plan—whether you're safeguarding a modest home, ensuring your children’s financial security, or avoiding probate altogether.

But yes—initial setup costs and complexity can feel overwhelming. That’s where services like LegalShield come in and change the game.

Why Trusts Feel Intimidating: Setup Costs and Legal Complexity

Let’s break it down:

Initial Setup Costs

Creating a trust with a traditional attorney can range anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on:

• The type of trust (revocable, irrevocable, special needs, etc.)

• The number of assets involved

• The level of customization required

And that’s just the beginning—there can also be fees for funding the trust, drafting related documents, and ongoing maintenance.

Legal Complexity

Trusts aren’t plug-and-play. You need to:

• Understand which type of trust fits your goals

• Choose the right trustee(s)

• Properly title assets into the trust

• Follow state-specific legal rules

Without legal guidance, even a small mistake—like failing to retitle your home into the trust—can send your estate right back into probate court.

How LegalShield Helps You Create a Trust — Without the Stress

LegalShield offers affordable access to experienced estate planning attorneys as part of their monthly membership—often for less than the price of one attorney consultation.

Here’s how they help simplify trust creation:

Consultations Included

Have questions about whether you need a trust? Want to know if a will is enough? LegalShield members get unlimited consultations with an attorney to explore their options without worrying about hourly rates.

Trust Review & Assistance

LegalShield attorneys can:

• Help you determine the right trust for your situation

• Review your estate planning documents

• Draft standard living trusts (in some states and plans)

• Guide you through trust funding steps

If your plan includes trust services, you may even get discounted or included document preparation through your provider attorney.

Flat-Fee Services (Where Available)

Rather than paying thousands in unpredictable legal fees, LegalShield offers flat-rate services through their provider law firms for more complex needs. That means no surprise billing—just transparency and confidence.

Peace of Mind

Best of all? You can ask questions any time during the process. Need to update your trust after a life change? Want to name a new trustee? Your LegalShield attorney is just a phone call away.

Bottom Line: You Don’t Need to Be Wealthy to Use a Trust

Trusts aren’t just for millionaires—they’re for:

• Parents who want to protect minor children

• Homeowners who want to avoid probate

• Blended families planning for future security

• Anyone who wants privacy, control, and peace of mind

With LegalShield, you don’t have to sacrifice affordability for quality.

Ready to Start?

Whether you’re building a legacy or just getting your estate plan off the ground, a trust might be exactly what you need—and with LegalShield, it’s more accessible, affordable, and stress-free than ever.

Protect your future. Secure your legacy. Simplify the process with LegalShield.