Many people feel obligated to choose a family member or friend to do the work after a death or loss of capacity. This family member may soon feel overwhelmed by the numerous details and deadlines; the expectations of other family members and the financial consequences. Generally, it takes about three years to close an estate in California.
There are usually provisions in the trust and estate planning documents that instruct how to change Trustees. If the family member would like to resign from the job, contact the attorney to find out how. Jane, Marguerite and Clay are often named in the documents after a family member (or the co-trustees) have had enough. To learn more about preventing this kind of upset, click here.
This is an alternative that contributes to family peace: A professional insured Private Trustee who is usually less costly than an inexperienced, busy, family member.
We do not publish our fees as, when we go to work, and what we do for you, depends on your particular needs and circumstances. We discuss what we charge to do this work, when you meet with us, in person. We want to know that we are the right fit, before we accept your case.
For a phone appointment or to set a meeting time and place, contact us.
If you have ever hired a CPA to prepare your tax return, or a lawyer to handle your legal affairs, why would you select an amateur (who you love) to do the difficult, detailed work involved in closing your estate? See a short (around 4 minutes) video.
When you name us in your Estate Planning Documents as your Successor Trustee, Executor, Agent (under the Power of Attorney for Finance), and Agent (under the Advance Health Care Directive), we work directly with your trusted advisors, including your Attorney and Financial Advisor to achieve your Estate Plan goals. Your attorney is welcome to contact us with questions he or she may have regarding our work. The team of professionals you have selected are important to the success of your estate plan. Here are some safety tips to keep you and your estate safe.
What are your estate planning goals? Family Harmony? Estate Tax Benefits? Charitable Giving? Living independently? Protecting your loved ones?
Our clients enjoy working with us because we make the effort to get to know your special circumstances and your preferences. It is our practice to work with the professionals you have selected and whom you trust. We are happy to provide references with whom we have worked.
We are not a bank or a trust company, so we can customize our services to your needs and retain your investment plan (we don't have an "investment department" or "proprietary investment products"). We are private professionals who specialize in Estate Administration, Trust Management, Probate Administration, Estate Settlement and Fiduciary Accounting.
"...I have enjoyed my contact with your loving, caring staff as well as yourself. The love and spiritual maturity of yourself and your staff has made a difficult situation as comfortable as possible." Jeanne R., Beneficiary
Excellence in Service Since 1975 San Diego, North County and Coastal
As of January 1, 2009, individuals serving as Fiduciaries are now required to be licensed in the State of California. For more information on licensing requirements, click here.
