California Revocable Trust Agreement when Settlers Are Husband and Wife is a legal document that allows a couple to create a trust together. This legal arrangement is commonly used in estate planning to provide flexibility and control over their assets while they are alive and ensure a smooth transition of these assets upon death. In a California Revocable Trust Agreement, the husband and wife, also known as the settlers or granters, transfer their valuable assets, such as real estate, investments, and bank accounts, to the trust. They retain complete control over these assets as the trustees during their lifetime. The trust agreement allows them to manage, sell, or distribute these assets as they see fit and make any changes or modifications to the trust as desired. By establishing a revocable trust, the husband and wife can avoid probate, which is often a lengthy and costly process in California. Upon the death of one spouse, the trust automatically becomes irrevocable, and the surviving spouse becomes the sole trustee. This allows them to manage and distribute the trust assets without court involvement, ensuring privacy and minimizing legal expenses. There are various types of California Revocable Trust Agreements available to spouses, and they can choose the one that best suits their needs and goals. Some common types include: 1. Joint Revocable Trust: This type of trust is created by the husband and wife together, as contractors. They both hold the title to the trust assets jointly and retain control over the trust during their lifetime. Upon the death of one spouse, the trust assets pass to the surviving spouse, who then becomes the sole trustee. 2. Separate Revocable Trusts: In this arrangement, each spouse establishes their own individual revocable trust, holding their respective assets separately. They can have different beneficiaries and distribution terms for their trust assets. This type of trust provides each spouse with greater control and may be beneficial if they have separate assets or different estate planning objectives. 3. Pour-Over Will: While not a trust agreement on its own, a Pour-Over Will often is used in conjunction with a California Revocable Trust Agreement. It ensures that any assets owned by the deceased spouse individually at the time of death or not properly transferred to the trust during their lifetime "pour over" into the trust and are distributed according to its terms. It is important for couples to seek professional legal advice when considering a California Revocable Trust Agreement as it involves complex legal matters and estate planning considerations. By understanding the different types of trust agreements available when settlers are husband and wife, they can make informed decisions based on their specific circumstances and goals.