Have you ever wondered what happens when siblings can’t agree on their parent’s trust? Or when a trustee seems to be keeping all the money for themselves? You’re not alone. Trust disputes happen more often than you might think in Orange County, and knowing your rights can make all the difference.
What Exactly Is a Trust Dispute?
A trust dispute happens when people disagree about how a trust should work. Think of a trust like a set of instructions for taking care of someone’s money and property. When the person who made those instructions passes away, sometimes family members fight about what those instructions really mean or whether someone is following them correctly.
Client Testimonial: “The Legacy Lawyers helped me understand that I actually had rights as a beneficiary. I thought I just had to accept what the trustee said, but they showed me I could fight for what was fair.” – Sarah M., Irvine
Common Questions People Ask During Trust Disputes
“My brother is the trustee and won’t show me any financial records. Is that legal?”
No, it’s not. In California, trustees must share financial information with beneficiaries. If your trustee refuses to show you bank statements, property deeds, or investment records, you have the right to demand them. The Legacy Lawyers can help you file the proper legal documents to force the trustee to share this information.
“Can a trustee sell property without telling the beneficiaries?”
This depends on what the trust says, but trustees usually need to inform beneficiaries about major decisions like selling property. If a trustee sells property secretly or for less than it’s worth, you might have a case against them.
“My stepmother changed my dad’s trust right before he died. Can I challenge this?”
Yes, you might be able to challenge these changes, especially if your dad was sick or confused when he signed the new documents. This is called “undue influence,” and it’s one of the most common reasons people contest trusts in Los Angeles County.
Real-Life Example: The Case of the Missing Inheritance
Maria’s father left a trust dividing his Newport Beach home equally among his three children. But when Maria asked her brother (the trustee) about selling the house, he claimed their father had given him the house separately. He couldn’t produce any documents proving this gift.
Maria felt helpless until she contacted The Legacy Lawyers. They discovered her brother had been living in the house rent-free for two years without paying Maria or their sister their share. The firm helped Maria file a petition with the Orange County Probate Court, and eventually, she received her rightful inheritance.
Important Callout: California law gives beneficiaries powerful rights, but there are time limits. Don’t wait too long to speak up if something seems wrong with how a trust is being handled.
Warning Signs You Might Need a Trust Litigation Attorney
Pay attention if you notice these red flags:
The trustee won’t answer your questions or return your calls. They make excuses about why they can’t share financial records. Family property suddenly “disappears” or gets sold without explanation. The trustee seems to be living large while telling beneficiaries there’s no money. You discover the trust was changed when your loved one was very sick or had dementia.
How The Legacy Lawyers Can Protect Your Inheritance
When you work with The Legacy Lawyers, you get attorneys who understand both the legal and emotional sides of trust disputes. They know these aren’t just about money – they’re about fairness, family relationships, and honoring your loved one’s true wishes.
The firm can help you understand your rights as a beneficiary, gather evidence to support your case, file the necessary court documents in Orange County or Los Angeles courts, negotiate with difficult trustees or other beneficiaries, and fight for your inheritance in court if necessary.
Client Testimonial: “I never thought I’d have to take my own aunt to court, but The Legacy Lawyers made the process as smooth as possible. They were respectful of our family situation while still fighting hard for what was right.” – David L., Los Angeles
Take Action to Protect Your Rights
If something doesn’t feel right about how a trust is being handled, trust your instincts. California law protects beneficiaries, but only if you speak up. The Legacy Lawyers offer consultations to help you understand your options and decide on the best path forward.
Don’t let someone else control your inheritance unfairly. Contact The Legacy Lawyers today to learn how they can help you fight for what’s rightfully yours.
