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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Estate Planning, Trust & Probate GlossaryLearn the meaning of common California estate planning, trust, and probate terms, from living trusts and powers of attorney to probate and trustee duties.
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Deadlines and Duties: Handling Creditor Claims in California ProbateCalifornia's creditor claims process can expose executors and trustees to personal liability. Kavesh, Minor & Otis explain deadlines and risks in probate.
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A Practical Guide to Managing Your Irrevocable Life Insurance TrustA guide for trustees on ILIT administration, from premium payments to death benefit distributions. Learn how a trust attorney can help.
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Trust And Estate Administration Help Is Available. Get Started HereTrust and estate administration help for successor trustees. Get clear guidance, free resources, and support from experienced estate attorneys.
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The Trustee's Compass: Navigating Special Needs Trust AdministrationA guide to special needs trust administration for trustees. Learn how to manage distributions, protect benefits, and comply with legal duties.
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How To Choose A Torrance And Surrounding South Bay Cities Living Trust Administration AttorneyThis handy checklist provided by Torrance living trust administration lawyer Phil Kavesh can help you understand how to choose the right lawyer for your needs.
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What Happens When a Trustee Becomes Incapacitated? California Trust Lawyers Explain Next StepsLearn what happens when a trustee becomes incapacitated, how a successor trustee takes over, and the legal steps required under California law.
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Contesting a Will in California Probate Court: Grounds, Process, and TimelinesLearn about California will contest procedures, including grounds like undue influence and lack of capacity, from experienced probate litigation attorneys.
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Business Operation During Trust Administration: Legal Boundaries for Los Angeles TrusteesLearn about operating businesses during trust administration in LA, including trustee limitations and legal protections from trust administration lawyers.
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The Executor's Guide to Probate Real Estate: How to Handle Property Sales in CaliforniaCalifornia probate real estate guide: learn rules and requirements for selling property during probate, timelines, valuations, and legal considerations.
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The Executor's Role in California Probate: What You Need to KnowLearn about the essential responsibilities of an executor in settling a California estate and how a probate attorney can provide valuable guidance.
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California Probate Lawyer Answers Common Questions About the Probate ProcessCalifornia probate lawyer answers common questions about the process, timelines, costs, and how legal guidance can help you navigate probate with confidence.
