A Trust is an important legal tool used for protecting and passing along property. And while they ultimately make property transfer easier, there are many steps involved in creating a trust, and later on, administering it.
Trust administration is not a lengthy and expensive process like probate, but it is nonetheless multi-faceted and time-sensitive. Therefore, it is best left to an experienced attorney. At Turnbull & McLaughlin, we are pleased to provide trust administration services and assist trustees in the fulfillment of their duties. To arrange an initial consultation with a knowledgeable trust administration lawyer, call our office at 916-927-1800.
An Involved And Detailed Legal Process
After someone passes away, there is a limited window in which to complete most trust administration work. Usually, notification letters must be sent and documents filed within 30 days of the person's death.
Here are just some of the tasks involved — all of which our firm can take care of for you:
- Preparing and sending mandatory notification letters to heirs and beneficiaries stating that the creator of the trust has died and the trust has become irrevocable
- Collecting names and addresses of beneficiaries and heirs
- Obtaining a tax ID number from the IRS, when necessary
- Lodging (submitting for filing) the original Will with the probate court
- Sending a letter to California's Director of Health Care Services
- Sending a letter and Change in Ownership Statement to the county assessor for every piece of real property owned by the decedent
- Recording affidavits showing that a trustee has died for any real property owned by the trust
- Helping heirs disclaim property (when applicable)
- Creating trust allocation schedules
- Assisting with the transfer of assets to beneficiaries
- Working with your accountant to determine whether or not to file an estate tax return and for assistance with the preparation of receipts for beneficiaries and a final Accounting, when necessary
Our firm has been helping clients with these and other services for over three decades. You can count on us for personalized attention, thorough preparation and professional service at all times. Our goal is to ably handle all legal matters, thereby significantly easing the burdens of families and loved ones during what is often a very difficult time.
Need More Information? Contact Us For A Consultation.
Turnbull & McLaughlin serves clients throughout the Sacramento area. To discuss your legal needs with our experienced lawyer, call us at 916-927-1800. You can also fill out our online contact form.