Can You Set Up a Trust Without an Attorney?

You’re smart, resourceful, and tired of overpaying for things you could probably handle yourself. So you start Googling: Can you set up a trust without an attorney? The internet says yes. There are kits, templates, and even AI tools. Easy, right?But what happens when the language is vague, the assets aren’t properly transferred, or the trust doesn’t do what you thought? That’s when families land in court. If you're asking the question, you're already thinking ahead. Now let’s talk about what you really need to know before going DIY.

What Is a Living Trust?

A living trust is a legal document that lets you control how your assets are handled while you're alive and after you're gone. It holds your property for your benefit during your lifetime and names who will receive it after you.What makes it “living” is that it takes effect while you’re still here. You can change, update, or cancel it at any time. That flexibility is part of what makes it so appealing to folks who want a bit more say in how things go.For many small business owners and creatives, a living trust feels like a safeguard. It’s not just about avoiding probate—it’s about making sure your stuff lands where it should, without chaos or court drama. It’s your plan, in writing, with a clear process already baked in.

What Goes Into a Trust?

You can place almost any asset into a trust, as long as you own it. That includes real estate, bank accounts, investment portfolios, and even your business interests.If you're running a business, this part matters. You’ll want to transfer ownership or assign your share of the business to the trust. It’s one of those steps folks skip because it feels too technical, but skipping it can create a mess later.You can also include life insurance policies, vehicles, personal valuables, and intellectual property. The key is funding the trust. If you don’t move assets into it, it’s just paperwork. A trust only protects what’s inside.

You Should Hire a Lawyer To Set Up A Trust 

Setting up a trust isn’t just about filling out forms—it’s about making sure your intentions hold up. That’s where working with a lawyer like Melissa Wick makes all the difference.If you’re dealing with real estate, business ownership, or a family structure that’s anything but simple, a trust drafted from a template can fall short. It might look fine on paper, but one vague clause or missed step can lead to court battles, tax issues, or assets landing in the wrong hands.Melissa brings more than legal knowledge—she brings clarity. She listens for what matters to you, then makes sure your trust reflects that. Whether you're protecting a family home, planning for a child with special needs, or securing your business legacy, she’ll craft a strategy that holds up—now and years from now.You don’t need to guess or Google your way through something this personal. You need legal clarity that aligns with your purpose.

7 Steps To Set Up a Trust

If you're thinking about skipping the lawyer and handling your trust on your own, there’s a clear path to follow. But each step matters—miss one, and your trust might not work the way you want it to.

Step #1: Collect Information

Start by gathering everything you own that you’d want to include in the trust. Think property titles, bank statements, business documents, and personal assets. You’ll need names, account numbers, and accurate values.

Step #2: Choose a Type of Trust

Most people looking to DIY go with a revocable living trust. It gives you full control during your lifetime. If you need to protect assets from creditors or manage money for others, you might consider other types, but those get more complex.

Step #3: Name a Trustee and Successor Trustee

You’ll act as the trustee while you’re alive, but you’ll also need to name someone to take over when you can’t. Choose someone reliable, organized, and ready to follow your wishes without drama.

Step #4: Draft the Trust Document

You can use online tools or templates to create the trust itself. Ensure it reflects your exact intentions—who gets what, when, and how. The language needs to be specific. One unclear sentence can throw off the whole plan.

Step #5: Get a Trust Review

Even if you're DIY-ing, this is one instance where a legal eye can help. A trust review isn’t full legal representation, but it can catch big mistakes and help you fix them before they cause problems later.

Step #6: Sign and Notarize

Trusts need to be signed and notarized to be valid. That part’s non-negotiable. Follow your state’s requirements exactly. If you miss a detail here, the whole thing could fall apart.

Step #7: Transfer Assets to the Trust

This is the step most people miss. You have to retitle your assets in the name of the trust. If you don’t, the trust won’t control them, and you’ll be right back in probate court—exactly where you didn’t want to end up.

Set Up a Trust: Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the cheapest way to set up a trust?

The cheapest way to set up a trust is by using online legal software or trust templates, which typically cost between $50 and $500. However, these low-cost options don’t include legal advice and may not cover complex situations, like business assets, blended families, or state-specific rules.

What are the requirements for a trust in Indiana?

To create a valid trust in Indiana, you need a grantor (the person creating the trust), a named trustee, a clearly stated intent to create the trust, identifiable trust property, and a signed, written trust agreement. The trust must also comply with Indiana’s Uniform Trust Code.

How much does a trust cost in FL?

In Florida, setting up a trust can cost anywhere from $500 to $3,000 or more, depending on complexity. Simple trusts done online are cheaper, while hiring an attorney for a custom trust—especially one involving real estate or business interests—adds legal fees but offers stronger protection.

Who is the best person to set up a trust?

The best person to set up a trust is a licensed estate planning attorney who understands your assets, goals, and state laws. A qualified lawyer can tailor your trust to avoid probate, protect your assets, and ensure your wishes are legally binding.

Work With Melissa Wick To Set Up a Trust

can you set up a trust without an attorney?Whether you’re setting up your first trust or updating one that no longer fits, Melissa Wick offers clear, compassionate legal support that centers your goals—not just your paperwork.She’ll help you create a plan that protects your people, honors your values, and stands up to real-life complexity. Ready for legal clarity aligned with your purpose? Schedule a consult with Melissa and get the peace of mind that comes from doing it right.