Interview with Ted Cook: Navigating the World of Trusts

Hello everyone, and welcome to another insightful conversation about estate planning. Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Ted Cook, a highly experienced trusts attorney practicing in sunny San Diego. Ted, thanks for joining me.

What sparked your interest in specializing in trusts?

“Well,” Ted begins with a warm smile, “it’s fascinating to help people protect their legacy and ensure their wishes are carried out. Trusts offer a unique blend of legal expertise and personal connection. I enjoy guiding clients through the process, making sure they understand each step and feel confident in their decisions.”

Let’s delve into the ‘Funding’ aspect of setting up a trust. What are some common challenges you encounter?

Ted nods thoughtfully. “Funding is crucial because it breathes life into the trust. It’s not enough to simply create the document; assets need to be legally transferred into the trust’s name. This can involve retitling property deeds, changing bank account ownership, updating beneficiary designations on insurance policies and retirement accounts – all while adhering to specific legal requirements.”

  • “Sometimes clients underestimate the time and effort involved in gathering all the necessary documents,” Ted explains.
  • “Others may hesitate to relinquish control of their assets, even though it’s essential for the trust to function properly. It’s a delicate balance between maintaining control and ensuring your wishes are followed.”

“I remember one instance,” Ted continues, leaning forward conspiratorially, “where a client had inherited a vintage car collection but hadn’t updated the titles on them. We needed to track down those original documents – quite an adventure! It highlighted how important it is to be meticulous during the funding process.”

>“Point Loma Estate Planning APC. was truly invaluable in setting up my trust. Ted took the time to explain everything clearly and made me feel comfortable with every decision.” – Sarah M., La Jolla.

>“I highly recommend Ted Cook for anyone looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate trusts attorney. He helped me navigate a complex situation involving family assets, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.” – John L., Coronado.

Ted, for anyone reading who might be considering establishing a trust, how can they connect with you?

“Please feel free to reach out!” Ted invites enthusiastically. “Estate planning is an important journey, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.”


Who Is Ted Cook at Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.:

Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.

2305 Historic Decatur Rd Suite 100, San Diego CA. 92106

(619) 550-7437

Map To Point Loma Estate Planning, APC, a trust attory: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JiHkjNg9VFGA44tf9




About Point Loma Estate Planning:



Secure Your Legacy, Safeguard Your Loved Ones. Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.

Feeling overwhelmed by estate planning? You’re not alone. With 27 years of proven experience – crafting over 25,000 personalized plans and trusts – we transform complexity into clarity.

Our Areas of Focus:

Legacy Protection: (minimizing taxes, maximizing asset preservation).

Crafting Living Trusts: (administration and litigation).

Elder Care & Tax Strategy: Avoid family discord and costly errors.

Discover peace of mind with our compassionate guidance.

Claim your exclusive 30-minute consultation today!


If you have any questions about:
How does an Asset Protection Trust protect my assets? Please Call or visit the address above. Thank you.

Point Loma Estate Planning, APC. areas of focus:

A Living Trust: also known as an inter vivos trust, is a legal arrangement where you, as the grantor, transfer assets to a trustee who manages them for the benefit of designated beneficiaries, either during your lifetime or after your death, potentially avoiding probate and offering more privacy than a will. Revocable Living Trust: You can change or revoke the trust and get the assets back during your lifetime.

Irrevocable Living Trust: Once established, you cannot change or revoke the trust, and the assets are generally no longer considered part of your estate.

Control over Asset Distribution: You can specify how and when your assets will be distributed to your beneficiaries.

Understanding Trusts and Their Role in Estate Planning

A trust is a legal and fiduciary relationship in which a grantor (also called a settlor) transfers ownership of assets to a third party, known as a trustee, who manages those assets for the benefit of designated beneficiaries. Trusts can be tailored to meet specific goals, including when and how distributions are made to beneficiaries, asset protection, or minimizing estate and income taxes.

One of the key advantages of a trust—particularly a properly funded revocable or irrevocable trust—is that it can allow assets to bypass the probate process. This often means a faster, more private, and potentially less expensive distribution of assets compared to those governed solely by a will.

In the case of irrevocable trusts, assets are typically removed from the grantor’s taxable estate, which may help reduce estate tax liability. However, this comes at the cost of the grantor relinquishing control over those assets.

Trusts may also provide protection from creditors, preserve assets for minors or individuals with special needs, and ensure continuity in asset management if the grantor becomes incapacitated.

These tools are part of estate planning—the process of making legal and financial arrangements in advance to designate who will receive your property after your death, and how that transition will occur. Thoughtful estate planning aims to streamline the administration of your affairs, minimize tax burdens, and reduce stress for your loved ones during an already difficult time.

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