Trust Administration Services

Guiding Trustees Through Their Duties After a Death

When someone passes away with a living trust, the successor trustee must properly administer the trust according to California law. We provide comprehensive guidance through this complex process, ensuring all legal requirements are met while honoring the trustor's wishes.

Get Help Now Call (818) 291-6217

What is Trust Administration?

Trust administration is the legal process of managing and distributing trust assets after the trustor's death. Unlike probate, trust administration is typically faster, more private, and less expensive - but it still requires careful attention to legal requirements.

In California, where a single family home often exceeds $1 million in value, proper trust administration is crucial. As a successor trustee, you have important fiduciary duties to the beneficiaries. Mistakes can lead to personal liability, disputes, and legal complications. Professional guidance ensures you fulfill your duties properly while protecting yourself.

Typically completed in 4-12 months

Private process - no court records

Cost-effective compared to probate

Protects trustees from liability

Time-Sensitive

Flexible Fee Arrangements

We offer payment options that work for your situation

Regular Retainer Agreement

Traditional hourly billing arrangement where you pay for services as they are rendered. This option provides transparency and control over legal costs throughout the administration process.

Pay as services are provided
Detailed monthly billing statements
Full control over scope of services
Ideal for straightforward administrations
Ability to pause or stop services

Contingency Fee Agreement

Fee based on a percentage of the estate value, typically paid from trust assets upon distribution. This arrangement means no upfront costs and fees are only due when assets become available.

No upfront payment required
Fees paid from trust assets
All services included
Ideal for complex estates
No out-of-pocket expenses

Which Option is Right for You?

During your free consultation, we'll discuss your specific situation and help you choose the fee arrangement that best suits your needs. We understand that every estate is unique, and we're committed to providing transparent, fair pricing that works for you.

No Financial Barriers: We believe everyone deserves quality legal representation during trust administration. Our flexible fee arrangements ensure that financial concerns don't prevent you from getting the professional help you need. Contact us to discuss which option works best for your situation.

The Trust Administration Process

A step-by-step guide through trust administration

Immediate Actions

Initial Steps

Obtain death certificate, locate trust documents, secure assets, and notify beneficiaries of their status.

30-60 Days

Asset Inventory

Identify and value all trust assets, obtain appraisals, gather financial statements, and create comprehensive inventory.

60-90 Days

Creditors & Taxes

Pay valid debts, file final tax returns, obtain tax clearance, and handle any outstanding financial obligations.

90-120 Days

Distribution

Distribute assets according to trust terms, obtain receipts from beneficiaries, and prepare final accounting.

120+ Days

Trust Closure

Complete final distributions, close trust accounts, file final documents, and obtain releases from beneficiaries.

Trustee Responsibilities

Your legal duties as a successor trustee

Fiduciary Duty

Act in the best interests of beneficiaries, avoid conflicts of interest, and manage trust assets prudently.

Notice Requirements

Notify all beneficiaries and heirs of the trust administration within 60 days as required by California law.

Accounting

Keep detailed records of all transactions and provide accountings to beneficiaries upon request.

Tax Obligations

File final income tax returns, estate tax returns if required, and obtain tax identification number for trust.

Asset Management

Protect and maintain trust property, collect income, pay expenses, and invest assets prudently.

Communication

Keep beneficiaries reasonably informed about trust administration and respond to reasonable requests.

Don't Risk Personal Liability

Trustees can be held personally liable for mistakes in trust administration. Common errors include missing deadlines, improper distributions, tax penalties, and breach of fiduciary duty.

Personal Liability

Mistakes can cost you personally

Legal Action

Beneficiaries can sue for breaches

Strict Deadlines

Missing dates has consequences

Get Trust Administration Help

Complete this form for a free consultation about your trustee duties

Your Name *

Email Address *

Phone Number *

Your Role *

Date of Death

Approximate Estate Value *

Have you started the administration process?

Yes No

Are there any disputes among beneficiaries?

Yes No Unsure

Fee Structure Preference *

Payment Method Preference

Additional Information

Your information is confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege