Trust Administration

When someone dies leaving a revocable living trust, the estate doesn't need court probate — but California law still requires the successor trustee to follow specific steps to wind down the trust correctly. We guide trustees through notice, marshaling assets, resolving debts, accounting, and final distribution, so the trust is settled properly and the trustee is protected from

What's involved

Notification by trustee. California Probate Code section 16061.7 requires the trustee to notify all beneficiaries and legal heirs within 60 days after the trust becomes irrevocable, typically the settlor's death. This notice starts a 120-day window during which the trust can be contested.

Marshaling and valuing trust assets, including real property, financial accounts, and business interests.

Paying valid debts and creditor claims of the deceased settlor.

Preparing trust accountings for beneficiaries.

Resolving title problems, including Heggstad Petitions for assets never formally transferred into the trust.

Distributing trust assets and closing the administration.

Why work with us

Trust administration errors can expose a successor trustee to personal liability. We handle the process remotely from our Dublin and Berkeley offices, serving trustees throughout California. Start with a free 15-minute phone consultation.