Plain-English glossary

Estate Planning & Probate Glossary

Short, plain-English explanations for terms customers often see while using Estate Law Aid.

Will

A document that says who should receive property and who should handle the estate after death.

An arrangement where a trustee manages assets for beneficiaries, often used for planning, privacy, or ongoing management.

The person named in a will to help handle the estate after death, subject to court rules where required.

The person or institution that manages trust property under the trust document.

A person, charity, or organization that may receive property or benefits.

A document that lets a trusted person handle certain financial or legal tasks while you are alive.

A document naming someone to make health care decisions if you cannot communicate or decide.

A court process that may be needed to prove a will and appoint someone to handle estate property.

A formal change to a will. Sometimes a new will is better; attorney review is often helpful.

A full rewrite of a trust that keeps the same trust identity but updates the trust terms.

The process of moving or coordinating assets with a trust. Deeds, accounts, and beneficiary forms may need review.

The formal step where an attorney agrees to represent or advise a client after conflict, scope, and fee terms are handled.