A revocable living trust essentially keeps the bulk of your personal property from going through the probate process. A pour-over will transfers all non-trust property into your trust immediately upon your death, allowing the trustee to control the disposition of your assets and estate without going through the probate process. It saves time and money, and keeps the disposition of your estate completely private and confidential.
A revocable living trust is a useful tool, but it has its limitations. It will not help mitigate your income tax or estate tax exposure, and it will not protect your assets from scam artists, frivolous litigation, aggressive creditors or ex-spouses trying to claim your separate property. If you are a high net worth individual or involved in a high-risk profession, you are a prime target for meritless lawsuits and ruthless criminals intent upon liberating you from your assets.