Choose expertise thoughtfully and make the scope clear.
Section 16247 addresses a trustee’s ability to hire professionals to advise or assist with administration. Investment delegation has additional considerations under § 16052. Appropriate expertise, authority, conflicts, scope, compensation, and monitoring should be considered in context.
California Probate Code § 16247Hiring professionals · Official legislative sourceCalifornia Probate Code § 16052Investment delegation · Official legislative source
Practical documentation steps
These are suggested organizing practices, not a complete statement of legal requirements.
- Define the work and qualifications needed.
- Compare services, costs, conflicts, and available alternatives.
- Record the engagement terms and a plan for reviewing the work.
A question for your professional
Which work can be assigned, and which judgments remain with the fiduciary?
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.