Six Areas of California
Estate Planning
Each practice area is approached with the same commitment — education first, clarity always, and support that extends well beyond the signing of documents.
Trust Administration
Guidance in
California
California Trust Administration Attorney: Guiding Trustees Through Every Step
Supporting trustees through their legal responsibilities with clarity.
When a loved one who held a trust passes away, the named trustee suddenly carries significant legal responsibilities. California trust administration involves specific duties, notice requirements, and fiduciary obligations, and most trustees are navigating them for the first time.
Unlike probate, trust administration typically occurs outside of court. But trustees must still follow California law carefully, or risk personal liability. We support trustees through every step with structured, clear guidance.
- Trust administration typically takes 6–12 months
- No court involvement required in most cases
- California law requires formal notice to beneficiaries
- Trustees hold fiduciary duties: we help you fulfill them
- We assist with notices, asset transfers, and distribution
- Complex estates with real estate transfers fully supported
Trust Administration
Private estate administration, structured guidance for trustees at every step.
6–12
Months Typical
Private
No Court Record
Our Process
Review Trust Documents
Understand trustee authority and instructions
Identify Trust Assets
Real estate, accounts, business interests
Notify Beneficiaries
California law requires formal written notice
Manage Debts & Expenses
Taxes, valid debts addressed before distribution
Distribute Assets
Per trust instructions, immediately or staged
Named as trustee and not sure where to begin? Let's talk.
Book a Free Clarity CallFrequently Asked Questions
What does a trustee do after someone dies?
The trustee manages trust assets, notifies beneficiaries as required by California law, addresses debts and expenses, and distributes assets according to the trust instructions. Many trustees appreciate professional guidance to carry out these duties correctly.
Does trust administration require court involvement?
In most cases, trust administration occurs outside of court — this is one of the major advantages over probate. Court involvement may become necessary if disputes arise among beneficiaries.
Do trustees get paid for their work?
Trustees are typically entitled to reasonable compensation for their work, although some family members choose not to take compensation. The trust document or California law guides what is appropriate.
Estimate California
Probate Fees
California probate attorney fees are set by statute and calculated based on the gross value of the probatable estate — not the net equity after mortgages or debts.
This means a home worth $1,200,000 with a $900,000 mortgage may still generate fees based on the full $1,200,000 value. Use this calculator to estimate.
ESTATE VALUE
ATTORNEY FEE RATE
First $100,000
4%
Next $100,000
3%
Next $800,000
2%
Next $9,000,000
1%
Both the attorney and executor are entitled to this statutory compensation. Extraordinary fees may apply for real estate sales or litigation.
Understand the cost of probate.
Enter the gross fair market value of the estate — before any mortgages or debts.
START WITH CLARITY
Estate planning does not need to feel overwhelming.
Understand your situation - Answer initial questions - Determine the right next step