Trust administration support.
Clear guidance. Compassionate support. Fair pricing. We help Successor Trustees fulfill their legal duties and avoid costly mistakes.
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.
Serving as a Successor Trustee is both an honor and a legal responsibility. After the Grantor's death, there are specific duties you may be required to carry out, and you don't have to figure them out alone.
Get Trustee SupportUnderstanding Your Role as Successor Trustee
After the Grantor's death, you may be required to:
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 Per 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
Advice specific to your trust, your assets, and your family situation.
Clear, Simple Steps
A straightforward roadmap of what to do, and in what order.
Compassionate Support
Steady help while you are also coping with the loss of a loved one.
Legal Compliance Assured
Meet every notice, accounting, and filing requirement on time.
Organized and Efficient
Keep the process moving without missed deadlines or duplicated work.
No percentage-based fees. Just fair, transparent pricing.
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
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? This free resource outlines the most important legal and financial steps to take after becoming a Trustee, so nothing gets missed and you are protected every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from new Trustees.
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 to 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, so guidance is key.
Can I be paid for being a Trustee?
Yes. California law allows reasonable compensation, and some trusts include specific payment terms.
Named as a Trustee? Start with a free consultation.
We will walk you through your duties, your timeline, and exactly what happens next, with clear, flat-rate pricing.