Start with the governing instrument and your responsibilities.
Section 16000 addresses administration according to the trust instrument and applicable trust law. Other duties include acting for beneficiaries and dealing impartially when their interests differ. The applicable duties and powers require a matter-specific review, not just a generic checklist.
California Probate Code § 16000Administration of the trust · Official legislative sourceCalifornia Probate Code § 16002Beneficiaries’ interests · Official legislative sourceCalifornia Probate Code § 16003Impartiality · Official legislative source
Practical documentation steps
These are suggested organizing practices, not a complete statement of legal requirements.
- Gather the complete trust and amendments.
- Identify the acting trustee and relevant restrictions.
- Separate confirmed responsibilities from questions needing counsel.
A question for your professional
What does this instrument authorize, require, or restrict?
Know the limits
Applicability depends on your role, the governing documents, the facts, and current law. Trust examples should not automatically be applied to estates or other engagements. Federal tax, other-state law, and court-specific issues may require separate research and advice.