Do I need a trust or just a will in Colorado?

A will names who inherits and who handles probate. A revocable living trust can keep some assets out of probate and help if you become incapacitated. The right mix depends on your home or homes, accounts, and family — not a template.

What happens if I die without a plan?

Colorado’s intestacy statute decides who inherits. That default is rarely what mountain families, blended families, or families with a disabled loved one actually want.

Can a special needs trust protect benefits?

Yes, when it is drafted and funded correctly. An outright inheritance can jeopardize SSI and Medicaid. We plan for that before assets land in the wrong place.

Free Estate Planning Seminars in Carbondale and the Roaring Fork Valley

Call (970) 340-2003

Book a consultation

What attendees learn

Hoffman Law Office hosts free community seminars on estate planning for families in Carbondale, the Roaring Fork Valley, and nearby Western Slope towns. These talks are education only, not a sales pitch and not legal advice for your situation. Attorney Alexander "Z" Hoffman leads each session.

A typical seminar covers:

Why every adult needs an estate plan
How wills, living trusts, and probate work in Colorado
Financial and medical powers of attorney

Time for your questions.

Hoffman family of Carbondale, hosts of free estate planning seminars in the Roaring Fork Valley

Upcoming Free Seminars

Free Estate Planning Seminar – Glenwood Springs
Dec 19, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Glenwood Springs Branch Library, 815 Cooper Avenue, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601, USA
A free community estate planning seminar at the Glenwood Springs Branch Library. Learn about Colorado wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Education only, not legal advice.
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Free Estate Planning Seminar – Carbondale
Jan 26, 2027, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Carbondale Branch Library, 320 Sopris Ave, Carbondale, CO 81623, USA
A free community estate planning seminar at the Carbondale Branch Library. Learn about Colorado wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Education only, not legal advice.
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Free Estate Planning Seminar – Parachute
Mar 06, 2027, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley Way, Parachute, CO 81635, USA
A free community estate planning seminar at the Parachute Branch Library. Learn about Colorado wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Education only, not legal advice.
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Estate Planning Basics: Protecting Your Family and Your Wishes
Mar 08, 2027, 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Basalt Regional Library, 14 Midland Avenue, Basalt, CO 81621, USA
A free community seminar on estate planning basics at Basalt Regional Library. Learn about Colorado wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Education only, not legal advice.
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