Wills and trusts are two complementary estate planning tools that can help ensure that property is distributed appropriately after a person's death. A will can outline everything from funeral arrangements to guardianship for minor children. It can also name an executor to handle any issues that may arise during the probate process. The distribution of personal effects to friends and family members can also be covered in a will.

A trust can greatly simplify the transfer of property to heirs. Generally, the more assets in an estate that are put in a trust, the less time consuming and costly the probate process will be. A living trust allows a person to continue to control his/her own assets until death. At that time, the trust passes on to the beneficiary. A successor trustee can be named to continue to administer a trust. This is especially helpful if the beneficiary is a minor. Unlike a conservator appointed by the court, a trustee has significant autonomy and flexibility in making sure the needs of a beneficiary are met.