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Trust Administration
Experienced Guidance for Trustees and Beneficiaries
Administering a trust involves more than simply distributing assets—it requires careful planning, legal compliance, and clear communication. At Burrey Law Group, Inc., we help trustees carry out their responsibilities with confidence, and we ensure beneficiaries are treated fairly throughout the process.
Whether you’re navigating a straightforward trust or a complex estate with multiple beneficiaries, we offer support grounded in experience, strategy, and respect for family dynamics.
What Is Trust Administration?
Trust administration is the legal process of managing and distributing assets held in a trust after the grantor (the person who created the trust) has passed away or become incapacitated. A trustee is responsible for carrying out the instructions outlined in the trust document.
Typical trustee duties include:
Notifying beneficiaries and heirs
Collecting and valuing trust assets
Paying outstanding debts and taxes
Managing real estate or business interests
Distributing assets according to the trust's terms
Preparing and providing trust accountings
The trustee has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries, follow the terms of the trust, and comply with applicable California laws.
Guidance for Trustees
Many trustees are private individuals—family members, friends, or business partners—who have limited experience with trust law. We provide practical support to help you:
- Understand and fulfill your fiduciary obligations
- Avoid common mistakes that lead to disputes
- Communicate effectively with beneficiaries
- Coordinate with financial advisors, CPAs, and other professionals
- Handle tax reporting and legal documentation
If challenges arise, we can also represent you in disputes or court proceedings to ensure the trust is administered properly and efficiently.
Support for Beneficiaries
If you are a beneficiary of a trust, you have the right to be informed, treated fairly, and receive your share of the trust according to its terms. Our team can help you:
- Understand your rights and entitlements
- Request information and accountings from the trustee
- Resolve concerns about delays, mismanagement, or favoritism
- Pursue legal remedies if your interests are being ignored or harmed
We approach trust-related disputes with care and professionalism, seeking resolution through collaboration or litigation, depending on what serves your best interests.
Illustrative Example
Picture this scenario: After their father passed away, a daughter was named trustee of his living trust. She wanted to fulfill his wishes but quickly realized the responsibilities were more complex than expected. Between asset distribution, tax paperwork, and growing tension among family members, she felt overwhelmed and unsure how to proceed.
In a situation like this, an experienced legal team can provide step-by-step guidance, ensuring the trustee fulfills her duties legally and effectively—while minimizing stress and family conflict.
How long does trust administration take?
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It varies depending on the complexity of the trust and the nature of the assets. Some trusts can be settled in a few months, while others may take a year or more.
Do all trusts need to go through probate?
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No. One of the main benefits of a trust is that it can bypass probate, saving time and court involvement. However, some related matters may still require court oversight.
Can a trustee be paid for their work?
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Yes. Trustees are entitled to reasonable compensation, unless the trust specifies otherwise.
What happens if a trustee doesn’t follow the trust’s terms?
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If a trustee fails to follow the trust or violates their fiduciary duties, beneficiaries can seek court intervention, including removal or financial restitution.
Can beneficiaries challenge the actions of a trustee?
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Yes. If there are concerns about mismanagement, lack of communication, or unfair treatment, beneficiaries have the right to raise those issues and pursue legal remedies if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of your burning questions have been answered.
Get in touch Trusted Legal Guidance for Every Stage
Trust administration can be both emotionally and legally complex. Whether you’re serving as a trustee or are a beneficiary navigating unfamiliar ground, Burrey Law Group, Inc. is here to guide you. We offer calm, clear, and experienced legal support to help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us today to discuss your trust administration needs.