In cases in which probate is required, the executor of the estate or the next of kin cannot take the actions necessary to administer the estate without the authority granted by the probate court. Probate is a complicated process that requires executors to prepare forms, meet deadlines, keep records, generate reports, submit filings to the court, and serve notices to creditors, heirs and local newspapers.

Choosing a trustee is, perhaps, the most difficult decision you must make when completing an estate plan. Do you choose a family member or friend to be trustee? Why would you want a professional trustee? What should I look for in a trustee? What are the advantages of choosing a professional trustee?

Trust litigation occurs when the court is needed to resolve any disputes over your trust. Some of the most common causes of these disputes are around questions of the legality of the trust. This can include but are not limited to questioning the sound mind of the trustor/deceased at the time of writing the trust, accusations of fund misuse by the trustee, or suspicion of manipulation or coercion upon the trustor/deceased. If these conflicts reach the level where the family cannot agree, parties may seek legal representation to dispute the trust, which will begin trust litigation.