You've spent a lifetime making decisions for yourself and the people you love. A will or trust can help ensure those decisions are clearly documented and your intentions understood.
At Coastwide Law, attorney Kathy Brown van Zutphen helps individuals and families create wills and trusts that reflect their wishes, family circumstances and long-term goals.
Whether you're starting from scratch or updating existing documents, we'll help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
What's the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?
Both are valuable estate planning tools, but they serve different purposes.
Wills
A will lets you specify how your property should be distributed after your death. It can also name an executor to administer your estate and nominate a guardian for minor children.
Trusts
A trust provides a legal arrangement for holding and managing assets according to its terms. Depending on the type of trust and how it is established, it may help address asset management, beneficiary needs and the transfer of property.
The right approach depends on your circumstances. Some people benefit from a will, others may need a trust, and many estate plans use both.
Kathy can help you understand how these tools work and which may be appropriate for your family.
When Should You Review Your Will or Trust?
Major life changes often create reasons to revisit existing documents.
Marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, the loss of a loved one, new property ownership or changes in family relationships can all affect your planning needs.
Even if nothing significant has changed, reviewing older documents can help you determine whether they still reflect your wishes.
Clear Guidance. Personal Attention.
Legal documents can feel intimidating, especially when you're making decisions that affect people you care about.
Kathy takes a practical approach, explaining your options, answering your questions and helping you understand the documents you're considering.
Her goal is to make the process easier to navigate, with less stress and less legalese.
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A well-crafted will or trust is the foundation of a strong estate plan. These essential tools ensure your wishes are honored, your loved ones are protected, and your assets are distributed as you intend—not left to the uncertainty of state law.
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We work closely with individuals and families to design wills and trusts that reflect their values, goals, and unique circumstances. Whether you are planning for young children, protecting a blended family, preserving a family business, or simply seeking peace of mind, we provide clear guidance every step of the way.
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Our Wills & Trusts Services Include:
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Last Will and Testament – Direct how your assets are distributed and name guardians for minor children.
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Revocable Living Trusts – Maintain control of your assets during your lifetime while simplifying the transfer process after death.
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Irrevocable Trusts – Protect assets, support tax planning, and safeguard resources for future generations.
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Special Needs Trusts – Ensure long-term financial support without jeopardizing government benefits.
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Trust Administration – Assist trustees in carrying out their duties responsibly and in compliance with the law.
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Will & Trust Updates – Review and revise documents as your life circumstances change.
Creating a will or trust is not just about planning for the unexpected—it is about providing clarity, security, and stability for the people you care about most.
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We are committed to making the process straightforward and accessible, helping you chart a clear course for your family’s future with confidence and peace of mind.