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A will allows you to control exactly what happens to your assets upon your death. Specifically, a will allows you to determine who will be responsible for administering your estate, to whom, and under what circumstances your assets will be distributed. 

 A codicil is a legal document that modifies specific provisions of a last will and testament, but leaves other provisions in place.

A power of attorney authorizes a person you designate to act as your attorney-in-fact to act in your name. You can define the extent of the authority you are giving so that the other person can only do those acts permitted. Powers of attorney range from very limited specific acts to virtually anything in your name that you could do yourself. Since your will has no effect during your lifetime, a well thought out power of attorney often provides a solution in the event of unavailability, incapacity or other limitation.

Probate is the formal process which gives recognition to a will and gives authority to the personal representative designated in the will to administer the estate and distribute assets to the intended beneficiaries as the will directs. 

Deeds are utilized to allow titleholders of real property to transfer interests in and title to real estate. There are many types of deeds, the most common of which are Quit Claim Deeds and Warranty Deeds. Deeds can also be used to correct errors or create a transfer on death. 

Many different goals can be 

effectuated using properly planned and implemented deeds. 

While there are numerous types of trusts created for various purposes, the most popular and most flexible of these is a Living Trust. A Living Trust leaves you in full control of your assets during your lifetime but can reduce or often eliminate the need for probate.

People with minor children often create trusts, so that one or more trusted adults have control of the assets that might otherwise pass to children not old enough for such responsibility. Living trusts, when properly created and set up, can simplify title to included assets and avoid probate, avoiding delay of distribution and reducing expenses.