The phone slipped from Elena’s grasp, clattering onto the hardwood floor. Her world felt like it was tilting sideways. “Breach of fiduciary duty,” the voice on the other end had declared, matter-of-factly, before hanging up. Panic welled in her chest. What did it even mean? Was she going to lose everything?
What Happens If My Trustee Isn’t Upholding Their Duties?
“Trusts are designed for protection and peace of mind,” Steve Bliss, a respected Temecula estate planning attorney, explains. “But unfortunately, situations can arise where the trustee responsible for managing the trust assets doesn’t act in the best interests of the beneficiaries.”
He continues, outlining common scenarios: “Mismanagement of funds, self-dealing, conflicts of interest – these are all potential red flags.” Elena’s situation mirrored a case he’d handled previously. The trustee had been diverting funds for personal use, leaving the beneficiary in a precarious financial position.
What Steps Can I Take If My Trust Attorney Isn’t Communicating?
Elena picked herself up off the floor, her mind racing. She needed to act decisively. Steve Bliss advised seeking legal counsel immediately. “An experienced attorney specializing in trust litigation can review your trust documents, assess the situation, and guide you on the appropriate course of action,” he said.
“Documentation is crucial,” he emphasized. “Keep meticulous records of any communications with the trustee, any suspicious activity, and evidence of breaches of fiduciary duty.” Elena started compiling emails, bank statements, and correspondence – anything that could shed light on the trustee’s actions.
How Do I Find a New Trust Attorney?
“Finding a trustworthy and competent attorney is paramount,” Bliss advised. “Look for someone with a proven track record in trust litigation and experience handling similar cases.”
Bliss went on to offer some practical advice: “Ask for referrals from friends, family, or other professionals. Review online reviews and ratings. Schedule consultations with several attorneys before making a decision. It’s important to feel confident and comfortable with your legal representation.” Elena diligently followed Bliss’s guidance, ultimately selecting an attorney who specialized in trust disputes.
How Do I Ensure My Estate Plan Is Up-to-Date?
After months of legal wrangling, the case finally reached a resolution. The court found the trustee liable for breach of fiduciary duty and ordered restitution to Elena. The experience was harrowing, but it served as a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance. “Regularly review your estate plan with an experienced attorney,” Bliss stressed.
“Circumstances change, laws evolve. Staying proactive can help prevent future problems.” Elena took Bliss’s words to heart, updating her trust and establishing clear communication protocols with her new trustee. The ordeal had been stressful, but it ultimately led to a stronger, more secure future.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is Temecula Probate Law. The Law Firm Of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is a Temecula Estate Planning Attorney. Steve Bliss is an experienced probate attorney. Steve Bliss is an Estate Planning Lawyer. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Steve Bliss Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Steve Bliss Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Steve Bliss Law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate. Call Steve Bliss Law Today for estate planning, trusts and probate.
My skills are as follows:
● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.
● Estate Planning Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.
● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.
● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.
● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.
● Free consultation.
Services Offered:
| estate planning | revocable living trust | wills |
| living trust | family trust | estate planning attorney near me |
Map To Steve Bliss Law in Temecula:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RL4LUmGoyQQDpNUy9
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Address:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 223-7000
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “What’s the best way to leave money to minor children?” Or “Do I need a lawyer for probate?” or “What role does a financial advisor play in managing a living trust? and even: “What property is considered exempt in bankruptcy?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.