Our Most Frequently Asked Trust Administration Questions
If you are serving as a successor trustee after the death of a loved one, these answers can help you understand your first steps, your responsibilities, and when it may be time to get legal guidance.
What Should a Trustee Do First After Someone Dies?
A trustee should first secure important documents, obtain certified death certificates, review the trust and any amendments, identify assets, and determine immediate financial obligations.
What Does a Successor Trustee Do?
A successor trustee is responsible for carrying out the instructions in the trust after the trust maker dies or becomes incapacitated. This may include managing assets, communicating with beneficiaries, paying debts and expenses, and distributing property according to the trust.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Administer a Trust?
Many successor trustees benefit from legal guidance because trust administration can involve strict deadlines, notices, tax issues, beneficiary communication, asset transfers, and potential personal liability if mistakes are made.
How Long Does Trust Administration Take in California?
The timeline depends on the complexity of the trust, the assets involved, tax issues, beneficiary cooperation, and whether disputes arise. Some administrations are completed in months, while more complicated matters may take longer.
What Is the Difference Between Probate and Trust Administration?
Free Resources for Trustees and Beneficiaries
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The Most Dangerous Job in the Family May Be the One You Never ExpectedMost people think being named as a successor trustee is simply an honor. In reality, it can become one of the most stressful, emotionally difficult,
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“I Don’t Want to Leave a Mess for My Family”Learn why proper estate planning matters and how a Torrance trust attorney can help organize your assets, reduce stress, and protect your family’s future.
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Tony Bennett’s Family Sings the BluesAfter the death of legendary singer Tony Bennett in 2023, disagreements arose among family members over how his trust and estate were being handled.
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Trustee Fees in California: What Is Considered Reasonable Compensation?Explore how trustee fees are determined in California. Learn when compensation is reasonable, challenges arise, and how an experienced trust attorney can help
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“Sorry, Kids, We Can’t Talk to You!”Learn why estate planning attorneys can't share client information with family members without consent and how to ensure proper involvement in the process.
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Finding a Life Insurance Policy That Wasn’t Listed in a Will or TrustLearn how to find a lost life insurance policy, recover unclaimed benefits, and protect your family’s financial future and estate with practical legal tips law.
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The 10 Biggest Mistakes Successor Trustees MakeDiscover the 10 biggest mistakes successor trustees make and how to avoid them, ensuring a smooth estate administration and protecting your legal...
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The Golden State’s Expectations for Trust-Related InvestmentsCalifornia’s Uniform Prudent Investor Rule requires trustees to make sound and reasonable investment decisions. Our CA attorney explains. Read more!
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California Law Now Provides Flexible Alternatives to ConservatorshipsThe enactment of California Assembly Bill 1663 provides families with a more flexible alternative to conventional conservatorships. Our attorneys explain.
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Another Celebrity Horror Story in the Making: Lessons from Anne Heche’s EstateAnne Heche Estate Planning
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What Happens When You Become Disabled?Trust Lawyer Torrance. Find out what to do in regards to a trust if you become disabled. California Trust Lawyer.
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Understanding and Avoiding EscheatmentCalifornia’s escheatment laws allow the state to take your assets if you do not create a comprehensive estate plan. Learn more from our CA attorneys.
