Trusts have many important uses. They can be used to protect beneficiaries with special needs, avoid probate, or protect an estate if Medicaid for nursing or home care is needed. Trusts can also help reduce an estate\u2019s taxes, allowing beneficiaries to keep a larger share of their loved one\u2019s assets.<\/p>\n
At JacksonWhite Law, we understand the complex nature of trusts in Arizona. If you recently lost a loved one and now face trust administration duties, know that help is available. Our team of experienced Tempe trust administration attorneys can provide you with proficient trust administration legal services to ensure the trust is properly maintained and to avoid costly penalties due to noncompliance.<\/p>\n
Trustee: Key Roles and Responsibilities<\/h2>\n
Trustees are legally accountable for managing property or assets on behalf of another person. They are appointed to oversee assets, make important investment decisions, and distribute assets or funds to beneficiaries according to the terms of the trust.<\/p>\n
The specifics of these duties will depend on the type of trust set up by the grantor. Some of the most common types of trusts include revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, special needs trusts, charitable trusts, and testamentary trusts.<\/p>\n
The duties of a trustee can differ based on the trust arrangement. However, some of the most common roles and responsibilities of a trustee include:<\/p>\n
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Duty of care:<\/strong> Trustees must exercise proper care when handling trust assets.<\/li>\n
Duty of loyalty:<\/strong> Trustees must act in the best interest of the grantor and beneficiaries and do their best to avoid conflicts of interest.<\/li>\n
Communication with beneficiaries:<\/strong> The trustee must keep beneficiaries informed about the trust, such as by providing periodic reports.<\/li>\n
Record-keeping:<\/strong> Proper record-keeping is essential to ensure that all activities and transactions are well-documented.<\/li>\n
Investment of trust assets:<\/strong> The trustee may be required to invest assets in the trust according to the trust\u2019s instructions.<\/li>\n
Administration of the trust:<\/strong> Trustees are responsible for handling the trust\u2019s assets.<\/li>\n
Distribution of trust assets:<\/strong> The trustee must distribute the trust assets to beneficiaries following the terms of the trust agreement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
As you can see, trust administration is a very involved process, but is much easier with the help of an experienced attorney. Fortunately, attorney Ryan Hodges is ready to help!<\/p>\n
Meet Ryan Hodges, Tempe Trust Administration Lawyer<\/h2>\n