Trust Administration & Estate Planning Attorney

Compassionate, Clear, and Experienced Guidance for California Trustees and Families

When a loved one passes away, the responsibility of administering their trust can feel overwhelming. Successor trustees are often family members who have never served in the role before—and who may be handling grief and complex family dynamics at the same time. California law requires trustees to follow detailed procedures, provide formal notices, protect trust assets, and ensure beneficiaries are treated fairly.

As a Trust Administration & Estate Planning Attorney, I guide families and successor trustees through the entire administration process with clarity, compassion, and professionalism. My goal is to make a difficult time easier by explaining every step, helping you avoid costly mistakes, and ensuring the trust is administered properly and efficiently.

What Is Trust Administration?

Trust administration is the legal and financial process of managing and distributing a trust after the trust creator (the “settlor”) passes away. Unlike probate, trust administration is handled privately—but it still involves significant legal responsibilities.

A successor trustee must:

• Notify beneficiaries and heirs
• Obtain a tax ID number for the trust
• Inventory and safeguard trust assets
• Manage and value real estate
• Pay debts, taxes, and expenses
• Distribute assets according to the trust
• Provide accountings when required
• Communicate with beneficiaries
• Keep meticulous documentation

Without proper legal guidance, even an honest mistake can create liability or disputes.

Why Trustees Need Legal Guidance

Many trustees don’t realize that:

• Trustees can be held personally liable for errors
• Beneficiaries can challenge actions they disagree with
• Required notices must be sent within 60 days of the settlor’s passing
• Real estate transfers have specific legal rules
• Financial institutions require formal documentation
• Accounting requirements can be complex

Having an attorney helps protect the trustee, preserve family harmony, and ensure the trust is handled correctly.

Trust Administration Services We Provide

Required Legal Notices

We prepare and deliver all required legal notices to beneficiaries and heirs under California Probate Code.

Asset Inventory & Valuation

We assist with identifying, securing, and valuing:

• Homes and real estate
• Bank and investment accounts
• Personal property
• Retirement accounts
• Business interests

Real Estate Management & Transfers

We guide trustees through:

• Retitling real estate
• Selling trust property
• Appraisals
• Coordinating with realtors and title companies

Payment of Debts & Expenses

We ensure debts, taxes, and administration expenses are handled properly and in the correct legal order.

Accounting & Recordkeeping

Clear, accurate accounting protects the trustee and builds trust among beneficiaries.

Final Distribution of Assets

We ensure distributions follow the exact terms of the trust and comply with state law.

When Should You Call a Trust Administration Attorney?

You should seek legal guidance if:

• You were named successor trustee
• A loved one has recently passed away
• Beneficiaries are disagreeing
• You are unsure how to follow the trust instructions
• You need help managing property or assets
• You want to avoid personal liability
• You are overwhelmed and need step-by-step support

Early legal assistance helps prevent mistakes and delays.

Our Approach to Trust Administration

Our philosophy blends professional expertise with a warm, supportive approach.

1. We Explain Every Step Clearly

You’ll never feel unsure about what comes next.

2. We Protect You Legally

We help ensure all statutory duties are fulfilled so you avoid liability.

3. We Reduce Stress

We handle the paperwork, deadlines, and communication so you can focus on your family.

4. We Prioritize Fairness & Transparency

Clear communication helps prevent disputes before they arise.

Why Clients Trust Our Firm for Trust Administration

Clients appreciate our:

• Experience in California trust and estate law
• Clear explanations of complex processes
• Calm, compassionate support during emotional times
• Strong communication with trustees and beneficiaries
• Ability to resolve issues quickly and professionally

We serve as both a legal guide and a steady, supportive presence.

Schedule a Trust Administration Consultation Today

If you need help administering a trust or understanding your role as a successor trustee, we are here to support you.

Call today: (415) 827-1425
Schedule online: (powered by Calendly)

You don’t have to navigate this process alone.

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How to Protect Your Assets from Probate Through Estate Planning

Revocable Living Trust Lawyer – California

Estate Planning Attorney in Novato, CA