Episode Summary

In this episode, Thomas LaPorte of LaPorte Law Group breaks down one of the most common questions in estate planning — what’s the difference between a will and a trust, and which one is right for you? With more than 30 years of experience in estate planning, business law, and probate, Thomas explains how each tool works, when to use them, and how they can protect your loved ones and assets. He also discusses key life events that should prompt a review or update of your estate plan and shares practical examples of how trusts can offer flexibility, privacy, and peace of mind for families of all sizes.

Key Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction
01:40 – What Led Thomas to Focus on Estate Planning
03:50 – Why Thomas Started His Own Firm
05:00 – What Is a Will and What Does It Do?
06:40 – What Is a Trust and How Does It Work?
08:30 – The Biggest Misconceptions About Trusts
09:50 – When to Choose a Will Over a Trust
11:20 – What Happens Without a Will or Trust
13:30 – How to Decide Between a Will, a Trust, or Both
15:00 – When to Review or Update Your Estate Plan
16:30 – Key Life Events That Require a Trust
18:00 – Closing Thoughts
About the Show

The Business Law, Estate Planning and Estates Podcast explores the legal strategies that protect families, businesses, and legacies. Each episode features Thomas LaPorte of LaPorte Law Group as he shares expert insight into estate planning, probate, and business law — helping listeners make informed decisions for their financial and personal futures.