Helping Alameda County Trustees Fulfill Their Fiduciary Duties
Providing reliable legal guidance to East Bay successor trustees to promote accurate, legally valid asset distribution
When a loved one creates a living trust, they often do so to maintain control over who receives their assets after they pass away, as well as to shield their family from the lengthy, expensive probate process. Upon the trustee’s death or incapacitation, a designated “successor trustee” steps in to manage and administer the trust assets.
If you have been named successor trustee, you may feel overwhelmed by the legal responsibilities on your shoulders. In California, trustees have strict fiduciary duties, meaning they are legally obligated to act in the best interests of beneficiaries and manage the trust assets prudently.
At The Law Offices of C. Lee Hewitt, we understand the immense responsibility that comes with assuming the role of successor trustee. We provide legal guidance and support through the trust administration process for your peace of mind.
Our Trust Administration Services
Managing your responsibilities as a successor trustee can feel challenging, but fortunately, you do not need to navigate this process blindly. Our attorneys have more than three decades of experience helping clients seamlessly manage trust administration across the East Bay Area.
We offer practical, comprehensive legal support to help you fulfill your fiduciary duties, assisting with all of the following:
- Required trust notifications: Preparing and serving the legally required statutory notices to all beneficiaries within California’s strict timeline
- Asset management and inventory: Helping you locate and value all trust property, including real estate and investments
- Debt and tax settlements: Coordinating the payment of the decedent’s final debts, estate taxes, and other administrative expenses out of the trust funds
- Sub-trust funding: If applicable, assisting with the division of assets into smaller sub-trusts, such as marital or bypass trusts
- Beneficiary distributions: Overseeing the transfer of property to beneficiaries according to the terms of the trust, with clear documentation to protect you from future liability
Assuming the role of successor trustee usually means that the original trustee has passed away or become incapacitated. We understand that this is an emotionally challenging time, and we do everything we can to make the burden of trust administration simpler to manage.
Compassionate, One-on-One Guidance From Experienced Estate Planning Attorneys
Unlike probate, trust administration takes place outside of the courtroom, which often makes it faster and more private. But the process still demands meticulous attention to detail, as failing to meet your fiduciary duty could leave you liable for mismanagement. You may also feel morally responsible for fulfilling your loved one’s wishes and handling their assets exactly as they intended.
Our boutique law firm takes an individualized approach to every case to ensure that we understand the unique dynamics of your family unit. Our goal is to provide steady legal guidance and clarity during an often confusing and demanding time.
Speak With Our Attorneys Today
If you have been appointed as a successor trustee or need help with other aspects of trust administration, our attorneys provide comprehensive support. Contact The Law Offices of C. Lee Hewitt today at 510-792-8811 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
