Would your child make wise choices if they inherited $1 million tomorrow? If you're not sure—or if the answer is "definitely not"—this video is for you. I'm Michael Pevney, an estate planning lawyer based in Orange County, California, and today we're talking about spendthrift trusts—one of the most powerful tools in estate planning. A spendthrift trust allows you to leave assets like real estate, life insurance, and financial accounts to your children or loved ones—without giving them total control. That means your legacy stays protected from: • Substance abuse or addiction issues • Gambling or impulsive financial behavior • Divorce settlements • Bankruptcy or lawsuits • And most importantly, from your child's own bad decisions 🧠 With a properly designed spendthrift trust, your child can benefit from your legacy, without putting it at risk. You can set: • Age-based distributions (like 25, 30, 35) • Milestones (graduation, job, sobriety) • Limits on how and when money is accessed • A third-party trustee (your child should not be in control of their own inheritance) Whether your child is financially inexperienced, in a rocky relationship, or facing personal challenges, this type of trust provides control, protection, and peace of mind. ✅ Who should watch this video: • California parents with adult or young adult children • Anyone concerned about a child with addiction, financial irresponsibility, or an unstable partner • Families with real estate, life insurance policies, or other sizable assets 📍 Want to protect your children and your legacy? 🔗 Schedule a free strategy session with me at: 🌐 https://www.ocestateplanlawyer.com 📍 Pevney Estate Planning, PC 25201 Paseo de Alicia, Suite 140 Laguna Hills, CA 92653 💬 Have questions? Leave a comment below — I respond to most estate planning questions, and I've made over 1,000 videos covering common issues. Yours might be next. 📲 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more estate planning tips!