Successor Trustees and Trust Administration

The death of a friend or family member can be an emotional and destabilizing time. In addition to the emotional toll, there are many legal and financial issues that need to be addressed in a timely manner.

The process of complying with legal deadlines, gathering the loved one's assets, and distributing them pursuant to the terms of their trust is called Trust Administration. Although many Trust Administrations can be completed without court supervision, California Law imposes heightened legal duties, responsibilities, and duties on Trustees. Even organized, well-intentioned Trustees should retain legal counsel to ensure they avoid liability. At Shiells & Hammer we represent both individual and professional Trustees to avoid legal liability and ensure the Trust Administration is completed as efficiently as possible.