Pittsburgh Trust Administration Attorneys

45+ Years of Helping Clients Plan for Their Futures in Armstrong, Allegheny, Beaver, Washington, Butler, Westmoreland Counties 

Administering a trust can be a complex and time-consuming process, requiring careful attention to legal obligations, tax considerations, and potential disputes. Our Pittsburgh trust administration attorneys offer comprehensive support, helping you navigate the legal and financial aspects of trust management with confidence and clarity.

At Herb & Winters Law, we provide skilled legal guidance in trust administration, ensuring that assets are managed and distributed according to a trust’s terms while adhering to Pennsylvania law. Whether you are a trustee seeking assistance in fulfilling your legal duties or a beneficiary with concerns about trust management, our experienced attorneys are here to help.

If you need assistance from Pittsburgh trust administration attorneys, then call Herb & Winters Law today to schedule a consultation. 

Call (412) 533-4821 to speak with a  trust administration attorney near you or contact Herb & Winters Law online to schedule a consultation so you can get answers to your questions about trust contests. 

Trust Administration in Pittsburgh

Once a trust has been established, trust administration refers to the tasks associated with the management of the trust after its creation. 

What does Trust Administration in Pittsburgh include? 

Trust administration encapsulates all aspects of managing of the trust including but not limited to: 

1. Filing Tax Returns: Trusts are recognized as a separate entity for purposes of tax laws. Accordingly, trusts also have to file taxes like any normal person has to do. 
2. Notifications After Settlor’s Death: With revocable trusts, certain notifications must be sent out to interested persons after the death of the settlor. Beneficiaries of the trust and heirs at law are generally going to be given notice of the settlor’s death. 
3. Making Distributions: Distributions must be made in accordance with the terms of the trust, so ensuring that everyone gets what they are entitled to when they are supposed to get it. 
4. Opening Bank Accounts: Opening up trust bank accounts. 
5. Collecting Assets & Protecting Assets: Ensuring that any assets that the trust is entitled to is paid to the trust and protected. 
6. Notifying All Financial Institutions of Settlor’s Death: so that appropriate changes to accounts can be effectuated. 
7. Finding Investment Company to Handle Investments: that is qualified to do so and that the investments are in accordance with any guidance given by the trust document. 
8. Final Expenses of Decedent: Pay off any final expenses of the Decedent if authorized to do so and prudent to do so.
9. Valuations: Obtaining valuations on the trust property, so it is understood approximately how much the trust is worth.
10. Payment of Bills: There are costs and fees associated with the continuation of the trust, so it is important to ensure that all such fees are paid. 
11. Trust Litigation: It is possible that trust litigation could arise and we can represent and advise a trustee throughout that process. 
12. Trust Contests: Should a trust contest arise, we can represent the trustee in that litigation as well. 
13. General Legal Advice: Any legal advice that the trustee may have we can provide guidance on how to best proceed. 
14. Serve as Trustee: In addition to assisting trustees, our law firm is also willing to serve as a trustee. Our law firm is happy to provide trustee services. 

If you need a Pittsburgh Trust Administration Attorney, call Herb & Winters Law today to schedule a consultation. 

Who can create a Trust in Pittsburgh? 

Anyone who is of sound mind and over the age of 18 can create a trust. We, of course, recommend that you consult with one of our Pittsburgh Trust Attorneys at Herb & Winters Law regarding the drafting of your trust.

How Guardianship Relates to Trust Administration

When a trust is created for a minor or an incapacitated adult, careful coordination between the trustee and the guardian is essential to ensure the beneficiary’s financial and personal well-being. The trustee is responsible for managing and distributing trust assets according to the terms set forth by the grantor, while the guardian oversees the personal care, medical decisions, and daily needs of the beneficiary.

In many cases, the guardian may need funds from the trust to cover medical expenses, educational costs, housing, and other necessities. However, the trustee must ensure that all distributions align with the trust’s provisions and Pennsylvania law. This can sometimes lead to challenges, such as determining what expenses are permissible, balancing financial sustainability, and addressing disputes over spending.

At Herb & Winters Law, we assist in:

• Facilitating clear communication between the trustee and guardian to ensure that the beneficiary’s needs are met without mismanagement of trust assets.
• Interpreting trust terms and legal obligations to prevent conflicts and ensure compliance with Pennsylvania guardianship and trust laws.
• Representing trustees or guardians in court if disputes arise over financial decisions, misallocation of funds, or the need for modifications to the trust.
• Ensuring proper accounting and reporting so that all financial transactions are transparent and in the best interest of the beneficiary.
• Helping with court approval when required, as some trust distributions or modifications may need judicial oversight, especially for minors or incapacitated adults.

Our Pittsburgh trust administration attorneys work closely with families, trustees, and guardians to create a seamless process that prioritizes the beneficiary’s well-being while upholding the legal integrity of the trust. If you need guidance on managing a trust that involves guardianship, we are here to provide expert legal support.

Call our Pittsburgh Trust Attorneys Near You

In short, Pittsburgh trust administration attorneys at Herb & Winters Law can assist you with the administration of a new or existing trust. Be proactive and schedule a consultation today with the Pittsburgh trust administration attorneys at Herb & Winters Law today, so that you can start getting answers to your legal questions. 

Call (412)533-4821 to speak with a trust administration lawyer near you or contact Herb & Winters Law online to schedule a consultation so you can get answers to your questions about trusts. 

Trust Administration FAQs

1. How long does trust administration take?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the trust, the number of beneficiaries, and potential disputes. Simple trusts can be settled in a few months, while complex cases may take over a year.

2. Do all trusts need to go through probate?

No. One of the benefits of a trust is that it avoids probate, allowing for a faster and more private distribution of assets. However, if assets were not properly titled in the trust, probate may be required.

3. Can a trustee be removed?

Yes, if a trustee is failing in their duties, beneficiaries can petition the court for removal. Grounds for removal include misconduct, mismanagement, or conflicts of interest.

4. What if a trustee is unsure how to proceed?

If you are a trustee and feel overwhelmed by the process, it’s wise to seek legal guidance. Our attorneys can assist with trust administration, ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of disputes.

5. What happens if there is a dispute among beneficiaries?

If beneficiaries disagree on trust terms or asset distribution, legal intervention may be necessary. Mediation or court proceedings can help resolve conflicts fairly.

6. Can a trustee be held personally liable for mistakes?

Yes. If a trustee mismanages assets or fails to fulfill their duties, they can be held personally responsible for financial losses. This is why legal guidance is essential.