Successor Trustees

Although a grantor may name himself as trustee of a living trust during his lifetime, he should name a successor trustee to act when he is disabled or deceased. At the grantor's death, the successor trustee must distribute the assets of the trust in accordance with the directions in the trust document. In many states, certain people must be notified at the death of the grantor.

Getting Help With a Trust

Trusts have important tax, governmental assistance, probate, and personal ramifications, so an experienced estate planning attorney should be consulted at all stages of the process -- from preliminary discussions to execution of trust documents. Go here to find a knowledgeable estate planning attorney near you.