A typical estate plan I prepare consists of: (1) a Revocable Living Trust; (2) a Pour-Over Will; (3) a Durable Power of Attorney for Assets; and (4) an Advanced Healthcare Directive (a combined power of attorney for healthcare, a living will and a HIPAA release). A Nomination of Guardians is also included if the client has minor children. For most people, the primary advantage of a Revocable Living Trust is the avoidance of probate. The Power of Attorney and Healthcare Directive are essential to a complete estate plan to deal with important decision making, should you become incapacitated.
What is not typical, and what I provide, is pragmatic guidance on how to set up an estate plan that best accomplishes your wishes, yet avoids unanticipated problems when the time comes to administer your estate.