Trust Administration 

Trusted Expert Management with Personal Care

When a loved one passes away after establishing a trust, carrying out their wishes and preserving their legacy becomes an immense responsibility. Our trust administration attorneys approach every client with compassion, taking the time to understand your unique needs and goals.

Responsible Trust Management  That Provides Peace of Mind for You and Your Family

There’s a general hesitancy to fully trust professionals and institutions when it comes to managing your estate and honoring your legacy. Many have seen money mismanaged and wishes disregarded in the past. My role as an estate planner is to earn your trust through transparent communication and a demonstrated commitment to upholding your values.

I aim to alleviate doubts so you can confidently create a trust, knowing it will be managed ethically. My goal is for your estate plan to provide long-term peace of mind that your family will be cared for and your values will be remembered for generations to come. With compassionate guidance, we can ensure your legacy continues to bless your heirs

Trust Administration Services

Trustee Advisory Services

Advising trustees on their duties and responsibilities in managing and distributing trust assets.

Trust Inventory and Valuation

Assisting in the inventory, appraisal, and valuation of trust assets.

Beneficiary Communications

Managing communications with beneficiaries regarding their interests and distributions.

Trust Document Interpretation

 Interpreting the terms of the trust document and advising on its execution.

Tax Compliance and Reporting

Assisting with the preparation and filing of trust tax returns and advising on tax implications of trust administration.

Dispute Resolution

Representing trustees or beneficiaries in resolving disputes related to the trust.

What To  Expect

Administering a trust after a loved one's passing often involves complex legal and financial tasks. Our knowledgeable team can handle transferring trust assets, managing investments and distributions, filing tax returns, and keeping beneficiaries informed. We work diligently to execute the trust according to your loved one's wishes. As your legal advisor and partner, we make trust administration as smooth and stress-free as possible during this difficult transition.

Frequently Asked  Questions

What are the trustee's responsibilities?

Trustees have many important duties - investing assets wisely, managing distributions, filing taxes, communicating with beneficiaries, keeping good records, impartially following the trust terms, etc.

How are trust assets transferred after death?

After death, trust assets are retitled from the deceased grantor's name into the name of the successor trustee. This allows the trustee to administer and distribute the trust privately.

How often are trust beneficiaries paid/updated?

Best practice is for trustees to provide trust beneficiaries with at least annual statements on asset values and any distributions made. More frequent updates build transparency.

What taxes need to be filed for trusts?

Income taxes must be filed for irrevocable trusts, while revocable living trusts use the grantor's Social Security number. Estate taxes may apply based on the size of the trust.

Can a trust be challenged or contested?

Yes, trusts can be challenged if beneficiaries believe the terms or asset distributions are unfair or that the trustee breached their fiduciary duties.

What are best practices for trust administration?

Being impartial, communicating clearly, investing prudently, keeping thorough records, following trust instructions, and operating with transparency are hallmarks of proper trust administration.

When does the trust terminate?

Trusts typically terminate upon the death of the grantor for living trusts or upon the death of the beneficiary for testamentary trusts. The trust document spells out the termination conditions.

Why Our Clients Love Shillinger Law . . .

"Löan not only knows her onions with regard to the law but she was very sympathetic and listened to me. It's pretty lovely when somebody listens and makes sure that what I wanted, I got. She is a wonderful lawyer, a wonderful human being, and you will be in the very best hands when you work with her."

"My sister and I bought a house together, but when she passed away, I found out that the deeds were not set up as we had intended. I came to Löan and thank goodness I did. She helped me navigate through the process of contacting my sister's estranged children of over 20 years and settled the estate through probate.”

"Löan has helped me put together my will, trust, and advance medical directive in order to be prepared and have peace of mind going into my major surgery. She made the process both educational and easy, and we even had a laugh or two along the way, which means a lot at this point in time. Thank you very much for that."

Copyright© 2024 Shillinger Law

770 First Avenue 
Suite 250 
San Diego, CA  92101
info@shillingerlaw.com
619-557-8296

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