Did you know that one in four Americans wants to create a will or trust soon, according to Ipsos Consumer Tracker research? A trust will secure your legacy and provide your loved ones and beneficiaries access to your assets without the legal problems that usually come with an estate.

On average, it takes two years to release a complex asset from probate, while even simple wills might take six months to go through the process.

So, do you really need an attorney to create a trust? While it’s technically possible to create a trust on your own using online forms, law firm Thomas & Webber suggests having an attorney can help you avoid mistakes, make sure your assets are properly included, and ensure that the trust complies with state laws.

Find out how having professional guidance can give you peace of mind that your trust will safeguard your assets for the future.

Understanding Trust Formation Process

To legally establish and execute your wishes while creating a trust without an attorney, you must understand the trust creation procedure. Decide what kind of trust you want. A revocable trust can be changed during your lifetime, but an irrevocable trust cannot. Knowing your options is vital.

You should also appoint a trustee to manage the trust per your instructions. This person needs to be reliable and financially responsible. After choosing a trustee, define the trust terms. Provide instructions for asset management and distribution to beneficiaries.

The trust document must be signed and notarized by state law to be binding.

Benefits of Hiring an Attorney

Hiring an attorney has a lot of benefits. But, before you finally hire an attorney, take advantage of scheduling an appointment with a trust lawyer offering free consultation. This move ensures that you can assess the lawyer’s capacity before hiring or retaining him or her.

Having an attorney means having someone who will make sure that your trust is correctly established and executed and that the trust meets your goals and state regulations. Your attorney can also construct the trust document precisely, avoiding future disagreements and legal issues.

Having an attorney can provide you with peace of mind that your assets and wishes are protected by law and that your trust will work as planned.

Risks of DIY Trust Creation

If you choose to establish your trust without legal guidance, you may commit errors that may have unwanted repercussions or, worse, invalidate the trust. You may miss important information or introduce unenforceable provisions without an attorney.

An attorney can customize the trust to meet your estate planning goals. Insufficient trust money is another common issue. Incorrectly transferring assets into the trust can reduce its efficacy and negate its purpose.

An attorney can help reduce these risks and provide you with peace of mind that your trust is properly constituted and legal.

Factors Influencing Attorney Requirement

If your assets are straightforward, such as a single home and a savings account, you might be able to create a simple trust on your own.

If you have a broad portfolio, business interests, or assets in multiple states, you should get legal assistance. Complex assets make it more probable that an attorney can assist you in creating a trust. An attorney can appropriately establish conditional payouts, charity donations, and special needs considerations in your trust.

Legal practitioners can also advise on tax consequences, challenges, and state-specific trust legislation. You can decide whether you need an attorney based on the complexity of your assets and trust provisions.

Making an Informed Decision

Your comfort in dealing with legal matters and your willingness to invest time and effort can help you decide whether to create a trust without an attorney. As mentioned, your primary consideration is the complexity of your assets. You should also assess your knowledge and abilities to manage state trust laws.

You should also compare the financial savings of DIY to the risks of mistakes that could lead to legal issues. Assess your confidence in creating trust autonomously using internet resources and self-help tools.

If you choose not to hire a lawyer, you might not receive trusted financial advice. By considering these issues and being honest about your abilities, you can confidently decide whether creating a trust without an attorney is best for you.

Conclusion

Having an attorney is really recommended if you want to establish a trust. An attorney can assist you in constructing the trust to match your goals and reduce the possibility of future errors or issues. DIY may be appealing, but expert help outweighs the risks.

Many children want to learn to swim. Sometimes, they need a little extra encouragement or a greater sense of security to acquire the confidence to swim. Parents often try to make their children swim with floaties first. Although floaties can make them feel more secure in water, there are safety implications that parents should know about.

As you’ll learn in swim school, you may encounter various opinions on the use of floaties and their effectiveness, but here is what you should keep in mind to make an informed decision:

Understanding Floaties & Safety Concerns

Floaties are colorful inflatable devices worn on the arms or around the waist that can help you stay afloat. These devices are cute and come in varying sizes, providing a sense of security to the swimmer.

However, they are not a substitute for proper swim instruction or supervision. Swimmers can still make dangerous mistakes even while wearing floaties. The safety concerns around floaties are not necessarily the devices themselves but the child’s overall behavior while using them. Here are some plausible scenarios that make floaties risky:

False Sense of Security

The main concern surrounding floaties is that they often create a false sense of security for children and their parents.

Picture this: your child starts believing they can swim independently because they have floaties. This confidence might make them take unnecessary risks, such as venturing further into deeper water without adequate skills.

Depending on where the child is swimming, waves or currents can make the situation dangerous. The child might even take off their floaties, thinking they can manage without them.

Inadequate Supervision

Some parents rely too heavily on floaties, believing it means their child is always safe. This cannot be further from the truth. Children must always be supervised in the water whether they are using floaties or not.

Accidents can occur at any time. In the water, they happen fast. Floaties do not guarantee safety in the water and using them does not mean that you should relax and believe your child is safe.

Potential for Deflation or Damage

All floaties can deflate easily or get damaged with rough use or exposure to sharp objects. Maybe your child has a bracelet or sharp toy that punctures their floaties.

If the floaties fail and the child is in the water, they can panic, leading to a dangerous situation. Panic is the main contributor to drowning accidents.

Swim Lessons Are Key

The best way for children to remain safe in the water is by taking proper swimming lessons. Kids learn in swim school to not only use swimming devices but also to swim on their own. They will learn essential skills such as floating, treading water, and other swimming techniques.

Floating, for example, is a crucial skill in swimming since it allows you to rest when you are too tired to swim. Learning various swimming techniques is crucial to understanding how to navigate the water in different circumstances and stay safe.

These lessons are invaluable for building confidence and ensuring that children can handle themselves in various water situations that would otherwise be deadly. For example, when facing big waves that break before they hit you, you should never attempt to jump them.

The force of the wave is so powerful it will spin and drag you underwater. When you resurface, you’ll be too tired to swim and another wave will come to tire you out further. Instead, the best thing to do is to know how to swim underwater and hold your breath. Go beneath the wave and avoid its primary force. This and other valuable lessons can be taught in swimming schools to children of various ages. These skills and knowledge will be applicable throughout their lives.

Alternatives to Floaties

If you are a parent who still wants to rely on floaties, always make sure that your child does not have something sharp with them with which they can potentially deflate the floaties. Always keep a watchful eye on them and do not let them get too far away from you. Ensure that the floaties are fit for their age and size and are properly inflated before use.

If you don’t want to use floaties, consider other flotation devices. Some other devices can be safer, such as:

U.S Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets

U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets provide safety in various water conditions. They are far superior to floaties as they provide more reliable buoyancy. Look for the label and approval number to check if the life jacket is approved.

It’s usually inside the vest and it indicates that the jacket has been tested for performance. Children’s life jackets come in various sizes indicating the floating weight. They can be harnessed so that even if the child swims aggressively or there are waves present, the jacket will generally stay in place and keep them safe. The adjustable belts will ensure that your child is tightly secure and comfortable.

Swim Belts

Swim belts are an excellent device for children who want more freedom in the water. These devices help with buoyancy and can be used to teach proper swimming techniques and form. Although they can still come off, their main purpose is to teach children to swim rather than just stay afloat.

Whether you want to buy floaties for your children or use other devices, keep in mind that they always must be supervised when they are in the water since no device can guarantee absolute safety. Consider taking your children to swimming classes and letting them develop the necessary skills to enjoy this activity and get some peace of mind while they’re in the water.

Miami is bursting with activities perfect for teens, blending vibrant culture, thrilling adventures, and stunning beaches. Venturing out to Miami’s iconic beaches not only promises sunshine and sand but also a variety of water sports such as paddle boarding and snorkeling.

These activities offer teens an opportunity to experience the ocean up close and make for an exciting and active day.

Beyond the beach, Miami is home to captivating attractions like the colorful Wynwood Walls. Teens with an interest in art will find inspiration amidst the giant murals and street art. Meanwhile, the Miami Seaquarium provides an educational experience where visitors can see dolphins, sea turtles, and more in captivating shows and exhibits.

For an unforgettable experience, consider exploring the city’s lively neighborhoods. Little Havana offers a taste of Cuban culture with its vibrant music, authentic cuisine, and rich history. This immersive environment provides a unique cultural backdrop that appeals to many teens visiting Miami.

Outdoor Adventures in Miami

Miami offers plenty of exciting outdoor activities for teens, including exploring unique ecosystems, enjoying vibrant beaches, and engaging in thrilling watersports. Each adventure promises an unforgettable experience, catering to diverse interests.

Exploring Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park provides a fascinating day trip. This vast landscape is home to diverse wildlife like alligators, herons, and turtles. Teens can witness this unique environment through guided airboat tours, offering an exhilarating ride over the waterways. For those interested in a slower pace, hiking trails and canoeing options are available.

The Pineland Trail is a great choice, offering insights into the park’s otherworldly beauty. Families can plan a full-day or half-day trip to fully experience the vastness and beauty of the Everglades.

Beach Days at South Beach

South Beach is iconic for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sandy shores. Teens can enjoy sunbathing, beach volleyball, or just swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Ocean Drive, located adjacent to the beach, offers numerous dining options and boutique shops that cater to various tastes.

Beachgoers can rent umbrellas, chairs, or even book villa rentals nearby for a luxurious experience. South Beach is not just a place to relax; it’s a hotspot full of energy and perfect for people-watching.

Watersports and Activities

Miami’s watersports scene is thriving, with many options to choose from. Teenagers can try their hand at parasailing for breathtaking views of the coastline. Jet skiing provides a fast-paced thrill, while paddleboarding offers a calmer experience on the waves.

Snorkeling is another popular activity, allowing a glimpse into the underwater world. Equipment rentals are widely available, making it easy to plan an activity-packed day. Each watersport ensures an exciting day filled with sun, sea, and fun.

Cultural Experiences

Miami offers a rich blend of vibrant street art and compelling historical and scientific exhibits for teens. They will find expressions of creativity at Wynwood Walls and an abundance of knowledge at the Frost Museum.

Street Art and Culture in Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls is renowned for its vibrant street art scene. Teens can explore large murals created by artists from around the world. This dynamic outdoor gallery features bold colors and unique styles, providing a captivating experience for young art enthusiasts.

Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history and themes of the artwork. These tours offer insights into the cultural significance and creative techniques behind the murals. There are also opportunities for interactive workshops, where teens can engage with artists or try their hand at creating their own street art.

History and Science at the Frost Museum

The Frost Museum of Science is both educational and engaging for teens. It features interactive exhibits that cover various topics such as space, biology, and local ecosystems. The three-level aquarium and a state-of-the-art planetarium are particular highlights.

Teens can explore the wonders of the universe in the planetarium, experiencing cutting-edge visuals and informative presentations. The aquarium showcases local marine life, providing a hands-on approach to understanding the ocean’s ecosystem. These exhibits are designed to inspire curiosity and encourage learning through interactive displays.

Live Music and Performances

For those preferring live entertainment, Miami offers teen-friendly concert venues. Teens can explore a variety of music performances, ranging from local bands to popular teen artists. These events often occur in open-air settings or smaller halls to create a more personal experience.

Live performance spaces frequently host events suitable for teens, focusing on artist lineups that appeal to younger audiences. Many locations also offer daytime events that run into the early evening, allowing teens to experience live music without staying out too late.

Shopping and Entertainment

Miami offers a vibrant atmosphere for teens interested in shopping and thrilling live events. Teens can explore expansive malls with numerous stores and enjoy exciting performances at iconic venues.

Dadeland Mall and The Shops at Sunset Place

Dadeland Mall is a shopping hub featuring more than 185 stores. Teens can find trendy apparel from popular brands like Zara, Uniqlo, and Urban Outfitters. A wide array of dining options, including Shake Shack and The Cheesecake Factory, make it ideal for spending a day shopping and eating.

The Shops at Sunset Place offers an open-air experience with stores such as Forever 21 and GameStop. It also includes entertainment venues, such as a movie theater and a bowling alley. This blend of shopping and recreation makes it attractive to teens looking for a lovely day out.

Live Events at AmericanAirlines Arena

The AmericanAirlines Arena is a key destination for live events, attracting international music and sports acts. Teens can attend concerts by leading artists or watch basketball games featuring the Miami Heat.

Events at this venue create memorable experiences with top-notch amenities and a dynamic atmosphere. Close proximity to villa rentals makes it convenient for those staying in the area. The arena remains a popular choice for visitors seeking entertainment in Miami’s bustling downtown.

Miami’s Unique Dining

Their Miami adventure would be incomplete without exploring the city’s unique dining options. From vibrant local flavors in Little Havana to hip eating spots in Miami Beach, there are plenty of tastes to explore.

Little Havana Food Tours

Little Havana offers a genuine taste of Cuban culture and cuisine. Teens can embark on food tours that guide them through the neighborhood’s iconic cafes and markets. Sampling Cuban coffee is a must, providing a burst of energy to fuel more adventures. Along the way, they’ll encounter the famous Cuban sandwich and fried plantains, offering a mix of savory and sweet.

These tours usually provide insight into the rich history and cultural significance of Little Havana. Visiting this lively area creates lasting memories centered around vibrant flavors and engaging stories. It’s an opportunity for teens to enjoy local music and art, enhancing their cultural experience.

Trendy Eateries in Miami Beach

Miami Beach is known for its chic and stylish eateries that offer diverse menus appealing to teens. Locals and tourists alike flock to these spots to enjoy everything from artisanal pizzas to gourmet burgers. Restaurants often blend beachfront views with tasty dining options, providing an unforgettable setting for a meal.

Many of these trendy spots feature live music and vibrant atmospheres, making dining and entertaining experience. A focus on trendy desserts, like extravagant milkshakes or innovative ice creams, will definitely delight. Teens can relish the unique vibe in these eateries and savor dishes crafted with creativity and flair.

As children spend more time online, they are increasingly exposed to influencers and user-generated content across platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. These digital personalities often shape young viewers’ perceptions of success, beauty, and happiness, sometimes in ways that create unrealistic expectations or promote consumerism and a materialistic lifestyle.

Guiding children to critically evaluate this content is crucial for building a healthy understanding of what is real and what may be exaggerated or biased due to commercial motives. When parents and teachers work together to be positive role models and primary influences in a child’s life, they can help counter the impact of external forces that significantly affect young, developing minds.

First Steps: Online Guidance and Support

Utilizing online resources can significantly aid in managing your child’s exposure to online influencers and user-generated content. Websites, blogs, and parenting forums offer valuable insights into the latest trends, platforms, and tools that help you stay informed about what your child may encounter online.

These resources can also provide strategies for handling specific challenges, from dealing with inappropriate content to fostering a healthy relationship with social media. For instance, you can find Parenting tips and more advice online to enable you to make informed decisions on setting boundaries, managing screen time, and ensuring your child’s safety while exploring the digital world. With these resources at your disposal, you can stay ahead of emerging digital trends and better understand the potential risks associated with certain platforms or influencers.

Understanding Influencers and Paid Promotions

The first step in managing children’s exposure to online influencers is helping them understand what influencers do. An influencer’s main goal often revolves around promoting products or lifestyles.  Even if they are not selling anything, gaining followers is a way for them to earn money.  This alone motivates online personalities to create material that shocks or entice viewers with clickbait headlines.

However, kids should be taught that influencers are sometimes paid to showcase items or experiences. This financial relationship can make content feel genuine, but it may have been crafted with the specific purpose of encouraging viewers to purchase a product or adopt a certain viewpoint.

Explain that while some influencers genuinely enjoy and use the products they promote, others might only be promoting them because they’re paid to do so. Encourage questions like, “Do they really think this is the best product, or are they simply embellishing the truth?”

Teach Kids to Question What They See and Hear

Media literacy is a skill that helps children analyze the motives behind the content they see. Children should be encouraged to ask questions about online content, much like they would about ads on TV or in magazines. Critical thinking involves analyzing, questioning, and understanding the “why” behind an influencer’s content and thinking about the impact it may have on their own decisions.

Encourage children to spot sponsored content and differentiate it from organic posts. Discuss why an influencer might choose to feature a particular brand and how it aligns with their online persona.

Discuss the Difference Between Online and Real Life

Many influencers showcase a curated life—highlighting only the most exciting, glamorous, or ideal parts of their days. Children need to know that social media often presents only a highlight reel rather than an accurate portrayal of real life. Helping kids differentiate between online portrayals and reality is key to preventing self-esteem issues and helping them develop realistic expectations.

Ask questions like, “Does anyone’s life look perfect all the time?” and “Why do you think they’re only showing this part of their day?” This can help children recognize that what they see online is often only part of the picture. Healthy skepticism is not a bad thing.

Recognizing Curated and Exaggerated Content

Beyond the “highlight reel” effect, some online content is intentionally exaggerated to drive engagement or evoke emotional reactions. This could include exaggerated reactions, over-the-top challenges, or unrealistic portrayals of relationships or lifestyles. Recognizing these exaggerations helps kids understand that not everything online is as authentic as it seems. Discuss the types of influencers they follow and the content they interact with regularly.

Watch a video together and discuss moments that seem exaggerated or too good to be true. Explore why influencers might exaggerate—such as for more likes, shares, or views—and how these elements can make their content more compelling to viewers.

Encourage following a variety of content types, not just influencer-based content, but also accounts focused on hobbies, learning, or positive values. This can provide children with a more balanced online experience.

Choose Platforms and Influencers with Caution

When deciding which online platforms your child can use and which influencers they can follow, do so with careful consideration. Some platforms offer better control over content than others, and certain influencers promote messages that align more closely with positive values.

Research the influencers your child follows, considering their content style, values, and the message they convey. Avoid allowing your child to follow influencers who promote harmful behaviors or unrealistic expectations. Instead, encourage them to follow role models who are educational, inspiring, and promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Managing children’s exposure to online influencers and user-generated content requires a balanced approach of guidance, communication, and appropriate digital tools. By setting clear rules, using parental controls, fostering open conversations, and encouraging critical thinking, you can help your child navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

By utilizing online resources for support and staying informed about new trends can empower you to make better decisions for your child’s online safety. With these strategies in place, you can ensure that your child’s online experiences remain positive, educational, and in line with your family values.