Beneficiary Advocacy

Help When You Have Questions About a Trust, Estate, or Trustee

Being named as a beneficiary is exciting, but oftentimes beneficiaries are not provided clarity about how an estate or trust will be handled. In reality, the actions (or inactions) of an trustee or executor raise questions. Many beneficiaries find themselves wondering whether the terms of the will or trust are being followed, or whether assets are being managed responsibly, or whether they have been provided the information they are entitled to receive.

The concern is simple:
“I think something isn’t being handled correctly. What can I do about it?”

Our beneficiary advocacy services focus on helping beneficiaries understand their rights, address concerns that arise during trust or estate administration, and ultimately ensure that things are handled according to law.  It’s not always a fight.  It’s about seeking truth.  We understand that relationships are important, and you may not want to hurt feelings or appear insensitive. We can help.

Relationship concept on wooden background side view. hand holding wooden cube with heart icon.

Understanding Beneficiary Rights in a Trust or Estate

Beneficiaries have legal rights. Trustees and personal representatives have a legal duty to follow the terms of the trust or will, act in good faith, and manage assets responsibly.  Transparency is required. 

Common questions beneficiaries have include:

  • Is the trustee properly managing the trust assets?
  • Are the legal documents being interpreted correctly?
  • Am I entitled to information about the trust or estate?
  • Are distributions being handled according to the trust or will?
  • What can I do if I believe something is being handled incorrectly?

Understanding these rights can help beneficiaries determine whether an issue is simply part of the process or something that may need further attention.

Trustee Duties & Responsibilities

Trustees are responsible for managing trust assets and carrying out the instructions in the trust document for the benefit of the beneficiaries.

Their responsibilities may include:

  • Managing and protecting trust assets
  • Communicating with beneficiaries
  • Following the instructions written in the trust
  • Acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries

If concerns arise about how these responsibilities are being handled, it may be helpful to review the situation with an attorney who can explain what options may be available.

How We Help Beneficiaries

In many situations, beneficiaries simply need help understanding what is happening during the administration of a trust or estate. Questions and concerns can often be addressed by reviewing the documents and clarifying the legal process.  Merrill Hanson has years of experience with wills and trusts, a deep education in business affairs and property management, and he acts as a professional fiduciary himself.  Tap into this wealth of wisdom.

Our office can assist with:

  • Reviewing trust or estate documents
  • Explaining beneficiary rights and trustee responsibilities
  • Helping you understand what information you are entitled to receive
  • Evaluating concerns about how a trust or estate is being administered

In some cases, these conversations simply provide clarity. In others, they help identify whether further action may be appropriate.  We can help you determine whether it’s cost-effective to take any sort of action.

 

Let's Start the Conversation

If you have been named as a beneficiary or trustee and have questions about how a trust or estate is being administered, it may be helpful to speak with an attorney.

If you have questions about a trust or estate, don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re happy to help. 

(775)-462-FARM