What To Do If an Executor Is Not Communicating With Beneficiaries?
Executive summary Introduction If an executor is not communicating with beneficiaries, it can lead to trouble. An executor is responsible for carefully managing an estate in a way that aligns with the best interests of the beneficiaries, the deceased party, and the estate as a whole—this responsibility is known as a fiduciary duty. If an […]
Who Has More Rights, a Trustee or the Beneficiary?
When comparing a trustee and a beneficiary of a trust, it is difficult to say who has “more rights,” as they each have completely different roles, powers, and responsibilities. While the trustee has a great deal of authority to administer the trust and manage its affairs, they also are bound by a fiduciary duty to […]
How To Divide Inherited Property Between Siblings
Executive Summary Introduction When people pass away, they often leave behind bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts, real property (homes, rental properties, etc.) and other personal assets as inheritance for their survivors. But how do two or more siblings divide up inherited real estate and other property? This question has caused countless family quarrels. However, […]
How Many Days Do You Have To Contest a Trust?
Typically, if you are a beneficiary of a revocable living trust or an heir of a trustor or grantor (the person that created the trust), you have a minimum of 120 days to file your contest petition in the appropriate court, at least in California. The 120-day time period may seem excessively short, but statutes […]
Do All Beneficiaries Get a Copy of the Trust?
Once your position as a beneficiary of an irrevocable trust (after your loved one passes and their revocable trust becomes irrevocable, for example) vests, you have the right to receive a copy of the trust documents. The trust document operates like a contract and will spell out your rights and the trustee’s obligations, as supplemented […]
Can You Fight a Trust in Court?
If you think that your loved one’s wishes are not reflected in the terms of their trust document or the way it is being distributed, you may have the right to challenge the trust in court. However, only certain individuals can fight a trust and even then only on specific grounds. Here we’ll take a […]