Trust Administration

Clear Guidance. Compassionate Support. Fair Pricing.

Trust Administration

Understanding Trust Administration

A Trust is a legal agreement in which a Grantor (also known as the Trustor or Settlor) appoints a Trustee to manage and distribute assets according to their wishes. Most often, the Grantor acts as the original Trustee, with a Successor Trustee named to step in if the original Trustee is incapacitated or passes away.

Understanding Your Role

Long-Term Care Planning Options

Serving as a Successor Trustee is both an honor and a legal responsibility. After the Grantor’s death, you may be required to:

We help you:

Manage & Protect Trust Assets

Safeguard all trust-held property and financial accounts responsibly.

Notify Beneficiaries & Legal Heirs

Legally inform all required parties of the trust administration process.

Settle Debts & File Taxes

Handle outstanding debts and ensure all necessary tax filings are completed.

Provide Trust Accountings

Maintain clear records and reports as required by law or the trust.

Distribute Assets According to the Trust

Follow the trust’s terms to transfer assets to beneficiaries accurately.

Transfer Real Property Titles

Update ownership records for any real estate held in the trust.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

How We Help You as a Trustee

Personalized guidance

Clear, simple steps

Compassionate support

Legal compliance assured

Organized and efficient

Our Approach

No Percentage-Based Fees. Just Fair, Transparent Pricin

Fair, Flat-Rate Fees

We charge based on the actual work performed—not the value of the estate—so you only pay for what you truly need.

Transparent, Honest Pricing

No hidden costs or surprise invoices. We provide clear, upfront pricing to help you plan with confidence.

Personalized, Value-Driven Support

Get knowledgeable legal guidance tailored to your situation—delivered with integrity, compassion, and care.

Get Your Free Successor Trustee Checklist

Feeling overwhelmed about what to do next?
When you're named as a Successor Trustee, it can be hard to know where to begin—especially if you're also coping with the loss of a loved one. To help you stay organized, avoid common mistakes, and feel more confident in your role, we've created a simple, easy-to-follow checklist just for you.
This free resource outlines the most important legal and financial steps you need to take after becoming a Trustee—so nothing gets missed and you're protected every step of the way.
Download your checklist today and move forward with clarity.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Trust Administration

Do I really need a lawyer to administer a trust?

A lawyer isn’t required, but legal guidance helps ensure compliance, avoid disputes, and simplify complex tasks—especially with multiple assets or beneficiaries.

How long does trust administration take?

Typically 6–12 months. Timelines vary based on assets, real estate transfers, tax filings, or beneficiary issues.

What if I make a mistake as a Trustee?

Trustees are legally liable for errors. Missed deadlines or mismanagement can lead to legal consequences. Guidance is key.

Can I be paid for being a Trustee?

Yes. California law allows reasonable compensation, and some trusts include specific payment terms.