Trust Administration

When someone else handles a loved one's trust, it can be difficult to know whether everything is proceeding as intended. You may receive updates, but still feel unsure about whether the trustee is managing things properly. A trust accounting can help you understand...

Serving as a trustee can feel stressful when beneficiaries want answers or distributions before the work is done. In California, communication is not just helpful. You have a duty to keep beneficiaries reasonably informed about the trust and how you are handling it....

Losing a loved one is never easy, and for many families, the legal process that follows can feel overwhelming. Beneficiaries are often unsure about what to do or expect especially with all the required paperwork, added financial responsibilities and complex family...

When a parent names you as trustee, they place deep trust in you. You may want to honor that trust and keep peace in the family. Yet beneficiaries may still question your choices during trust administration. This tension is common in California families. The law gives...

When your loved one passes away, they put their trust in your hands. You may encounter immediate questions from the family, specifically regarding the timing of their inheritance. As much as you want to help them as soon as you can, moving too fast can be a costly...

When someone creates a trust, many people think the money or property gets handed out right away upon their death. In California, it does not work that fast. Trust administration takes time because the trustee must first handle debts, taxes and expenses. This step...

Trustees hold the responsibility of managing and distributing trust assets according to the trust's terms. If a trustee fails to carry out these duties in California, the consequences can be severe. In this blog, you'll explore what happens when a trustee doesn't...

Trustees manage trusts and ensure they distribute assets according to the terms set by the trust creator. One common question that arises during trust administration is whether a trustee can charge fees for their services. While the answer depends on the trust’s...

When dealing with the distribution of an estate after someone's passing, probate and trust administration are two common methods of transferring assets. While they both serve a similar purpose, they operate differently. Understanding these differences can help you...

One of the primary functions of estate planning is laying down the foundation for your family’s future. Wills, trusts and other estate planning tools can help make sure your family is provided for, even after you are gone.  However, what if you have family members...