San Mateo County Trust Litigation Lawyer | Trust Disputes

San Mateo County Trust Litigation Lawyer

Trusts are created for many reasons. Among families, they can be used to give children an early share of an inheritance or to add a little extra income to the household. They can also prevent some people from burning through a large sum of money too fast or protect property from bill collectors.

Trusts consist of a trust property, the beneficiaries, and the trustee. When all parts work together, things go smoothly. If the trust was invalid when written or the trustee breaches their duties, then the beneficiaries need a San Mateo County trust litigation lawyer to help them and protect the trust before things get out of control. If you are navigating a trust dispute, reach out to our skilled attorneys at Hackard Law for a free consultation.

Understanding Trust Litigation

Trust disputes are extremely complicated, and not just because they involve the family’s money. A trust can have many moving parts, especially if there are several beneficiaries or the trust contains more than one property. Estate planning attorneys generally do not have the litigation experience needed to take these cases to trial. Although the lawyer who drafted the trust may be a top-tier estate attorney, they probably lack the courtroom skills needed if the case goes to court.

The San Mateo attorneys at Hackard Law have the trial experience needed for trust litigation. Our firm focuses entirely on trust and probate litigation, so we know what the California Courts expect when these cases come to trial. We will take your case and work to get you the best possible outcome in court.

Common Situations Requiring Trust Litigation

Trust disputes often arise when beneficiaries suspect that the trustee is mishandling funds. In San Mateo County, trustees are bound by California laws requiring trustees to follow strict fiduciary duties. Failing these duties can result in removal or even criminal charges. These duties include:

  • A duty of loyalty, to act solely in the best interest of the client, and not favor one beneficiary over another
  • A duty of “care and skill,” meaning the trustee must act with reasonable care when investing and managing the trust fund
  • A duty to inform and account. Trustees must provide accounting reports to beneficiaries and disclose the assets when asked
  • Avoiding conflicts of interest and self-dealing. The trustee cannot use trust assets for personal gain, loans, or business, and must keep assets separate from their own personal assets.

Breaching these duties can result in loss of the property or worse. The lawyers at Hackard Law have dealt with high-value properties and family concerns, and we can assist you in making legal decisions about your trust and trustee during litigation.

How to Choose the Right Trust Litigation Attorney

Deciding what to do in the event of a breach of trustee duties or other trust disputes can cause major issues within a family or business. You need an attorney in San Mateo County who is familiar with the complexities of trust litigation and navigating the California superior court system.

At Hackard Law, we have more than 20 years of experience in handling trust litigation within the California courts. Our outstanding reputation helps us open cases and take them through mediation and negotiation efforts. If we can avoid litigation, we will do so and limit your expenses. However, if it is necessary to go to trial, we will fight for your legal rights in court and help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Call Our Trust Litigation Attorneys in San Mateo County Today

If you are facing a trust dispute or suspect a trustee is breaching their duties, don’t wait. Contact a capable San Mateo County trust litigation lawyer at Hackard Law for a free, confidential consultation. Protect your rights, your inheritance, and your family’s legacy today.