When someone passes away, their property must be distributed according to legal procedures. Two of the most common mechanisms are estate administration and trust administration. Though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are distinct processes with important differences. Understanding how each works helps families prepare for potential costs, delays and responsibilities.
Estate administration refers to the court-supervised process of managing a deceased person’s assets, also known as probate. If there is a will, the court validates it and appoints an executor to carry out its instructions. Without a will, state intestacy laws dictate who inherits.
Estate administration typically involves:
Because it is court-supervised, probate can be a lengthy and public process. In many states, the process can take anywhere from months to over a year, depending on the complexity of disputes or assets. Probate costs, such as filing fees and attorney expenses, also reduce the value of the estate.
Trust administration occurs when a person creates a trust during their lifetime and funds it with assets. Upon the death of the original trustee, the successor trustee takes over to manage and distribute the trust property according to the terms outlined. Unlike probate, trust administration is usually handled privately without court oversight.
Trust administration typically requires the trustee to:
Because no court process is required, trust administration is often faster and more efficient. However, trustees carry significant fiduciary responsibilities and must act in the best interests of the beneficiaries, sometimes under scrutiny.
The primary differences center on privacy, efficiency and costs.
That said, trusts are not always cheaper overall. Creating and funding a trust during one’s lifetime has upfront costs, and trustees often hire attorneys or accountants to handle complex tasks.
Sometimes, both processes are necessary. If a person creates a trust but fails to transfer all assets into it before death, those leftover assets may still require probate. Likewise, disputes among beneficiaries can push even trust administration into court.
Both estate and trust administration involve navigating legal duties, deadlines and potential conflicts. Executors and trustees who mishandle their responsibilities may face liability from beneficiaries or creditors. An estate planning attorney helps families prepare documents that minimize the need for probate, ensure trusts are properly funded and guide administrators through their obligations.
If your family is facing estate or trust administration, consulting an attorney can save time, reduce costs and protect you from legal missteps.
Legacy One Law Firm, APLC is an estate planning and probate administration law firm in Los Angeles, California, serving families throughout the State. Schedule a quick and easy consultation with our estate planning attorney, Sedric E. Collins, Esq., or call 323-900-5450.
