Which is best for the inheritors?
Most people would say that a living trust is the far better choice because all the drawbacks of probate are avoided. In addition to the fact that it takes a lot of time, you have the cost factor.
There is a filing fee and the executor is entitled to remuneration. The executor may bring in an attorney and an accountant, and there are appraisal and liquidation expenses. All in all, a noticeable portion of the estate can be consumed during probate.
Another negative is the loss of privacy. Anyone that is interested can access probate records to find out how the assets were distributed.