Estate planning is a critical aspect of ensuring your assets are handled according to your wishes, especially in the state of Georgia. You might have already set up a trust as part of your estate plan, but what if your circumstances change? Can you modify or even revoke your trust? In this blog post, we'll delve into the specifics of changing a trust in Georgia, providing you with valuable insights to help you make informed decisions about your estate plan.

Understanding Trusts in Georgia

Before we explore the intricacies of modifying a trust, let's ensure we're on the same page regarding what a trust is and how it functions. A trust is a legal entity that holds and manages assets for the benefit of specific individuals or entities, known as beneficiaries. In Georgia, trusts can be a powerful tool for passing down assets while avoiding probate, ensuring privacy, and providing for loved ones.

Creating a Trust in Georgia

To understand how to change a trust, it's essential to comprehend the process of creating one. In Georgia, you can establish a trust as long as you have the mental capacity and are acting voluntarily, without any undue influence. Typically, a trust document outlines the terms and conditions under which your assets will be managed and distributed. You'll also need to appoint a trustee, who is responsible for carrying out your wishes as stated in the trust.

Key Components of a Trust

1. Settlor or Grantor: The person who establishes the trust and places assets into it is known as the settlor or grantor. In Georgia, as in other states, you have the freedom to create a trust during your lifetime (living trust) or through your will (testamentary trust) to take effect upon your passing.
2. Trustee: The trustee is the individual or entity responsible for managing and administering the trust as per your wishes. They have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries and follow the trust's terms.
3. Beneficiaries: Beneficiaries are those individuals or entities for whose benefit the trust exists. They can include family members, friends, charitable organizations, or even pets, depending on your specific intentions.

Modifying a Revocable Trust

In Georgia, if you've created a revocable trust, you have the flexibility to amend or revoke it during your lifetime. A revocable trust is aptly named because it can be altered or canceled at any time as long as you remain mentally competent. This means that if you experience major life changes, such as a new marriage, the birth of a child, or a change in financial circumstances, you can adapt your trust accordingly to reflect your current priorities.

Modifying a Testamentary Trust

A testamentary trust is a trust that is created through operation of your will, after your death.  For example, you might have testamentary trust provisions in a will that provides that any assets left for a child who is under 25 years of age, be held in trust for that child until they are 25. This trust is not created in your lifetime, but comes into creation through your will once you die, provided you have a child who is under 25.  If you want to modify the provisions of a testamentary trust in your will, you can modify your will.  See our other posts and resources for making a new will or amending an old one for more information on that.  If however, your children or others want to try to amend provisions of a testamentary trust that is in place because you have died, that's a different matter, and court approval may be required for such changes, because the trust is generally irrevocable, as discussed below.

Irrevocable Trusts

While revocable trusts offer flexibility, irrevocable trusts are more binding in nature. Once you've established an irrevocable trust, making changes can be significantly more complex. However, there are still some avenues to explore, such as seeking court approval or relying on specific provisions within the trust document itself.

If you find yourself needing to modify an irrevocable trust, Georgia law allows for certain modifications under limited circumstances. For example, if all the beneficiaries and the trustee agree on the changes, or if the court determines that the modifications are necessary to carry out the trust's original purpose, alterations may be approved. 

Using Trust Provisions

Some irrevocable trusts include provisions that grant trustees certain discretionary powers. These powers can sometimes be used to make changes or adapt the trust to unforeseen circumstances. However, it's essential to consult with an experienced attorney to navigate the specifics of your trust and the options available to you.

Working with a Georgia Estate Planning Attorney

Regardless of whether your trust is revocable or irrevocable, seeking the guidance of an experienced Georgia estate planning attorney is a wise step when considering modifications. An attorney can assess your unique situation, help you understand the legal options available, and ensure that any changes you make comply with Georgia law.

At Peach State Wills & Trusts, our team of dedicated professionals specializes in estate planning and can provide you with the expertise needed to navigate the intricacies of modifying trusts in Georgia. Contact Peach State Wills & Trusts at 678-344-5342 to learn how to plan for your specific needs in Georgia today. 

If you have any questions about estate planning in Georgia, you can download our free guide here, no strings attached.