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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Peter Keon of Kavesh, Minor & Otis provided excellent consultation for preparation in determining if Edward Jones Trust Company would act as a Successor Trustee. We highly recommend his Trust services.
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Last week we completed with the law firm of Kavesh, Minor & Otis, the updating of our Trust. The specifics were handled by Peter Keon, who was very professional, competent and helpful. He went through in detail our 2+ inches thick, very useful, and complete Trust manual. We strongly recommend Kavesh Law Firm if you are interested in a reliable implementation of your trust.
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★★★★★ “I had a positive experience managing my Executor role for my Uncle Tony’s estate. Working with Tammy Ng over several months, I found her unfailingly kind, understanding of my delinquent responses, helpful, brief, and delightful. I would strongly recommend working with this firm and ask for Tammy.”
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★★★★★ “Great review of our trust. Jane Lee very efficient and easy to talk to and gave us good advice as to how to avoid problems in the future.”
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★★★★★ “I am with Kavesh, Minor & Otis since 1996. Jane earned my trust. She always gave me good advice. I feel confident that she will make sure that the transition to the successor trustee will be smooth when I am gone. I also know that the company she recommended as successor trustee is trustworthy.”
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★★★★★ “Peter Keon did a great job updating our trust.”
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★★★★★ “My five-star rating is for Tammy Ng. She is the one that made the experience fantastic. Right after first my mom, then my dad passed away, she kept me going in regards to getting all the needed paperwork (she did most of it). Even two years after the execution of the Trust, she is still available to help. She follows through making sure everything is okay, responding within the day — always with a smile in her voice. Thank you, Tammy!”
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My husband and I had a very positive experience with Peter Leon of the Kavesh, Minor, & Otis Law Firm. We met with Peter to update our Family Trust and he skillfully addressed many concerns to resolve family issues. Peter is professional, devoted to his work, and always available to answer any questions. We highly recommend Peter to take care of you and your Family Trust.
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My husband and I met with Peter Keon to update our living trust. We were very happy with the help and service we received. Peter is a very thorough attorney and we appreciate his help.
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It is a pleasure to work with Peter Keon. He is very thorough and personable.
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Peter Keon of Kavesh, Minor & Otis provided excellent consultation for preparation in determining if Edward Jones Trust Company would act as a Successor Trustee. We highly recommend his Trust services.
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Attorney Jane Lee from Kavesh, Minor & Otis is the best trust Attorney. She helped me create my trust in I think 2018 and every three years I have been going back to their office for the review update. Attorney Jane is kind and patient. She helped me review everything and got all updates done. Everyone should go see her for all of your Attorney needs.