The documents that assist you when disabled are known as financial and medical powers of attorney. This aspect is part of estate planning, specifically the 'living' part of a living trust. A living trust is much harder to contest than a will, which is important for avoiding complications in probate court. A well-structured trust will include a 'poison pill' provision (and ours does), stating that anyone who contests their share or challenges the trust will only receive $1.00. Additionally, a solid living trust will designate both a primary and secondary guardian for minor children under 18.
Throughout your life, you have accumulated assets. By establishing a will, you may inadvertently expose your estate to easy challenges in probate. In contrast, a living trust creates a contingency plan to support you both during your lifetime and when you ultimately pass on.