After learning the benefits of using a trust, many Pennsylvania residents are eager to use this tool in their estate plans. Implementing this planning option can help create a more comprehensive plan and better ensure that a person’s wishes are followed. Of course, in order for a trust to be administered effectively, the trustee needs to have what it takes.
First, a trustee needs to remain objective throughout the management and administration of the trust. If he or she allows personal views and biases to get in the way of how the trust is handled, serious conflicts could arise. In fact, beneficiaries could seek to have a trustee removed if they feel that he or she is not upholding the necessary fiduciary duty.
When it comes to the fiduciary duty, the trustee must keep the best interests of the beneficiaries in mind. As a result, if a trustee mismanages the trust or believes that he or she can control the beneficiaries by withholding assets or ignoring the terms of the trust, a breach of duty may occur. In efforts to avoid such an outcome, it is important to ensure that the trustee understands his or her duties and responsibilities.
Because choosing a trustee is such an important decision, Pennsylvania residents looking to make this choice will certainly want to ensure that they know the qualities of a valuable candidate. As a result, it may benefit interested parties to discuss trust administration with knowledgeable attorneys to understand what their appointed person will need to handle. This information may allow them to make a confident choice.