California knowledge center

Understanding begins with the source.

Plain-English introductions to California fiduciary responsibilities, paired with official sources and useful questions for your professionals.

Educational material is informational and does not replace legal advice. These introductory resources are not a complete legal collection. No deadlines are calculated here.

Foundations

California Probate Code

Find the framework that fits the responsibility you hold.

Read the overview Investments & delegation

Uniform Prudent Investor Act / UPIA

Understand the process behind trust investment decisions.

Read the overview Trust administration

Trustee duties

Start with the governing instrument and your responsibilities.

Read the overview Estate administration

Personal representatives & executors

An estate role has its own authority and procedures.

Read the overview Investments & delegation

Delegation of investment management

Keep selection, scope, and continuing review connected.

Read the overview Investments & delegation

Duty to diversify

Consider concentration in the context of the trust.

Read the overview Trust administration

Duty of loyalty

Keep beneficiaries’ interests at the center of the work.

Read the overview Trust administration

Duty of impartiality

Understand differing interests without assuming equal treatment.

Read the overview Records & reporting

Recordkeeping & documentation

Keep the documents and the reasoning together.

Read the overview Records & reporting

Distributions

Confirm the conditions before money or property moves.

Read the overview Records & reporting

Accountings

Organized records make meaningful review possible.

Read the overview Trust administration

Trust administration

Bring authority, assets, people, and decisions into one process.

Read the overview Estate administration

Estate administration

Keep appointment, court process, and records in context.

Read the overview Investments & delegation

Working with delegated professionals

Choose expertise thoughtfully and make the scope clear.

Read the overview

Conservatorships, guardianships, and other engagements

You can organize these matter types in the preview. Their substantive legal guidance has not been added to the reviewed resource collection. Confirm the governing authority, appointment, court requirements, and applicable law with qualified counsel.