Trust Administration Attorneys North Carolina

Name: Trust Administration
Brand: Strauss Attorneys PLLC
Rating: 4.9 (447 reviews)

Administering an estate can be a complicated matter. As a personal representative or trustee, you have certain legal obligations. In addition, you may also be coping with the loss of a loved one. The tasks of paying creditors, settling debts, notifying beneficiaries, managing assets, and distributing the estate, can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, we are here to help.

Trusted Guidance for Trustees and Beneficiaries

The legal team at Strauss Attorneys, PLLC boasts over 20 years of experience supporting trustees and beneficiaries throughout the trust administration process in North Carolina. Our team of North Carolina trust administration attorneys can help you navigate the legal issues and obligations associated with the process. Call us today to talk to an attorney.

Key Elements of Trust Administration

Trust administration in North Carolina involves managing and distributing assets based on the trust document. The arrangement gives a trustee legal and fiduciary duties to ensure the trust operates exclusively for the benefit of the intended beneficiaries.

The process involves several steps that require attention to detail and adherence to North Carolina laws. Here are the essential aspects of the trust administration process:

Trustee Duties

As a trustee, you have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. This includes exercising prudence, transparency, and impartiality in all decision-making. Also, a trustee bears the following duties:

Organizing and filing legal documents
Sending legally mandated notices
Avoid delegating tasks that they are reasonably expected to perform themselves
Not to have self-interest conflicts with their duties
No personal profit from the estate administration process
Duty to exercise discretion in accordance with the trust document

Failing to meet these obligations can result in legal issues. That is why having a trust administration attorney by your side is invaluable for compliance and adherence to the decedent’s vision for their legacy.

Inventory and Appraisal

A crucial early step in trust administration in North Carolina is creating an inventory of the trust’s assets. This process includes identifying, gathering, and appraising the estate’s property to determine its value. You need to partner with professionals who can help you accurately document the value of the assets to avoid potential legal disputes.

Notification of Beneficiaries

Trustees are legally required to notify all beneficiaries of the trust. This includes providing them with information about their rights, the trust’s provisions, and the steps being taken to manage the estate. An attorney in your corner can facilitate proper communication to prevent misunderstandings and reduce the likelihood of conflicts.

Managing and Distributing Assets

Managing trust assets involves preserving their value, making prudent investments, and, ultimately, distributing them according to the trust’s terms. Each distribution must be carefully documented to ensure transparency and accountability. A lawyer can help you review the trust documents to ensure you understand what to do regarding asset management and distribution.

Tax Filing

Trustees are responsible for filing any required tax returns on behalf of the trust. This includes federal and state taxes, as well as any inheritance or estate taxes. Failure to file accurately or on time can result in penalties, further complicating the administration process. We can evaluate the estate tax obligations and advise you on the available federal or state pending tax obligations.

Accounting and Reporting

Trust administration requires a detailed accounting of all financial transactions. This information must be shared with beneficiaries and, in some cases, submitted to the court. Accurate reporting ensures that you meet your legal obligations and maintain trust among all parties involved.

What Our Clients Say

Efficient. Courteous. Professional. Thorough. Educative. Detailed.
Lee did a great job guiding us through the process.

D.H. & E.H. – Candler, NC

We found it a pleasant experience, not the ordeal we thought it would be.

N.H. & M.H. – Flat Rock, NC

Very professional. Prompt service.

D.B. & B.B. – Pisgah Forest, NC

Very professional, objective and precise, yet presented in easy to understand language.

E.M. & J. M. – Brevard, NC

I sincerely thank all of you and I feel comfortable concerning my will.

S.H. – Asheville, NC

Strauss Attorneys PLLC does a terrific job of estate administration.

B.A. – Waynesville, NC

Reinstatement of our trust since moving from CA. Brad. Alex and Kim were so welcoming and professional in every way including some very personal issues with family members. Brad...

Mark & Kathy Willard

I need help with a final accounting and I think I’ve found the right person.

Robert Todd Dorsey

Our experience with Strauss Attorneys PLLC in Hendersonville, North Carolina has been nothing short of fantastic. At our age, we were long overdue to generate a Will or Trust to...

Andy Strauss is the best. He’s smart, caring, a good listener, a clear communicator, and collaborative. Highly recommend him.

L — Asheville, NC

I needed to get a document notarized and it was a wonderful experience. The professionalism was outstanding with an extremely knowledgeable young lady.

Richard Ehlers

I was taken care of very well. James Fleming was polite and well knowledged.

L.H., Asheville, NC

Very friendly, informative, and thorough. All personel seem very professional.

Anonymous, Raleigh, NC

We felt important and have had for years a good relationship with Lee Mulligan

Wiley & Betty, Hendersonville, NC

I have been particularly impressed with the thoroughness of document preparation and explanations in writing of what I should do to maximize the provisions & benefits of my ...

P.A., Hendersonville, NC

Professional assistance in a friendly atmosphere!

William & Linda, Hendersonville, NC

I was unaware of the document called a Living Trust until I attended a seminar presented by Lee Mulligan comparing the advantages of a trust with those of a traditional will. At...

Anonymous, Hendersonville, NC

Our experience was wonderful. Spoke with a language we both could understand and digest. You are a keeper.

MZ & BZ, Hendersonville, NC

Forming a trust for my family was a great experience with Mr. Henry’s professional and personal approach. I felt well informed and treated with the utmost respect. I appre...

PA, Raleigh, NC

The experience & staff were courteous, professional, and we got what we needed.

GG & NG, Asheville, NC

Brad Henry was brilliant and precise. We highly recommend him.

DC & EC, Hendersonville, NC

Impeccable knowledge of NC Trusts & Wills. Difficult questions answered clearly and easily

WH, Asheville, NC

Great experience. Brad took time to explain everything thoroughly and was very thoughtful with looking at our entire situation. Grateful to him and the team that supports him.

Adam & Stephannie, Asheville, NC

Brad was very helpful in explaining the whole legal process – Brad explained the whole process in a very clear and understandable manner – Two notaries were very eff...

RL & NT, HEndersonville, NC

Our attorney, Lee Mulligan, and the staff were professional, courteous, and friendly.

D. R., Hendersonville, NC

Our experience was pleasurable, informative, emotionally satisfying, and confident that we are in good hands. Everyone is always courteous, helpful, considerate, and caring. The...

Burton and Doris, Hendersonville, NC

I have always been made to feel welcome and very well cared for by a most professional team of kind people who know their business well. Lee Mulligan in particular!

Anonymous, Hendersonville, NC

Professional, congenial, comforting. We have confidence in what you’ve done for us.

Steven & Carmon, Hendersonville, NC

We felt Brad welcomed us, educated us and made himself available for clarifications.

Sandy, Hendersonville, NC

Even though I feel intimidated by the “Big Book”, Lee was thorough in her explanations.

Nancy Pew, Hendersonville, NC

Lee explained everything in terms we could understand and the chart she drew was very helpful. We are confident our children will be well advised when settling our estate.

J.E. & B.E., Hendersonville, NC

We had a series of issues that Brad was able to incorporate into the discussion and explain the implications of each.

Cindy & Pam, Hendersonville, NC

Restatement of my trust was a stressless experience- Felt very comfortable with Brad & staff.

J.H., Hendersonville, NC

As a financial planner experienced with numerous estate planning attorneys, I was thoroughly impressed by...

E.R. Asheville, NC

The Raleigh office is the best Strauss office by far. It far surpasses any other Strauss office in the Carolinas hands down. People with yuge hearts and wonderful minds. I can't...

R.C. Raleigh, NC

Corey took time to explained everything in understandable terms and ensure my questions were answered. His staff is exceptionally responsive, kind, and helpful. Highly recommend...

T.Y. Raleigh, NC

Thank you to Jennifer, Kat, & Christie! They were very kind and explained everything so well.
Thank you also to Cory for being our attorney and for explaining all the m...

H.S. Raleigh, NC

Plan with Confidence, Protect What Matters

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Importance of Proper Estate Administration

Proper estate administration is essential to honoring the decedent’s wishes and protecting the interests of all beneficiaries. If procedural issues arise in estate administration, legal disputes, financial losses, and strained family relationships could also arise. However, by adhering to legal requirements and maintaining meticulous records, trustees can reduce the risk of estate, trust & fiduciary litigation and ensure a smooth administration process.

The Strauss Attorneys are here to provide qualified assistance in handling trust administration in North Carolina. This involves prioritizing accuracy, transparency, and attention to detail throughout the process. Our attorneys know that an efficiently administered trust can also minimize tax liabilities on the decedent’s estate. We have an extensive understanding of North Carolina trust law, and we can help you avoid exorbitant tax penalties that may leave beneficiaries with fewer assets.

Our Team: Certified and Award-Winning Attorneys

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Andrew A. Strauss Partner, Board-Certified Specialist

With over four decades of experience, Andy takes a comprehensive approach, guiding clients through everything from basic will preparation to complex trust structures and business succession planning.

Top-Rated Lawyer in Trust & Estates
Member of the North Carolina, Florida, and Pennsylvania State Bars

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Lee C. Mulligan Partner, Attorney at Law

With a keen eye for detail and a client-focused approach, Lee helps individuals and families safeguard their legacies, minimize tax burdens, and confidently navigate complex legal matters.

President of Summit Title Insurance in Hendersonville, NC.
Numerous non-profit board services in New Jersey and North Carolina

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Cory Howes Partner, Attorney at Law

Cory combines legal expertise with a strong financial background in tax, investments, and insurance. His practice is centered around a deep commitment to assisting families with their estate planning and administration needs.

North Carolina Bar Association
Virginia Bar Association

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Larry S. Hartley Partner, Board-Certified Specialist

A former U.S. Naval Diving and Salvage Officer, Larry brings dedication and expertise to protecting seniors and their families, with a focus on estate planning, Medicaid, and veterans benefits.

Member, North Carolina Bar Association
Member, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)

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Brad Henry Partner, Attorney at Law

With over a decade of experience practicing law, Brad brings extensive expertise in estate planning, guardianships, fiduciary litigation, and probate and trust administration, as well as a dedication to helping clients protect their legacies.

AV Preeminent® rating by Martin Dale Hubbell
Florida’s Real Property and Probate Trust Law (RPPTL) Section

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Peter McGuire Partner, Attorney at Law

Leading our estate and fiduciary litigation team, Peter has practiced law in Western NC. since 2002 and specializes in trust and estate disputes, advanced planning, and business succession.

Member of the North Carolina Bar Association
Inaugural Member of the Harry C. Martin American Inn of Court

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Daire Roebuck Attorney at Law

With nearly two decades of experience, Daire guides clients through estate planning with clarity and compassion. Dedicated to giving back, she actively supports pro bono initiatives and community advocacy.

Estate Planning & Fiduciary Law Section, North Carolina Bar Association, since 2007
North Carolina Bar Admission

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James B. Fleming Attorney at Law

Inspired by witnessing seniors’ challenges, James is passionate about guiding families through estate planning and elder law. Through Wills for Heroes, he proudly provides essential estate planning services to first responders.

North Carolina Bar Admission, 2019
South Carolina Bar Admission, 2021

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Samantha Reichle Attorney at Law

With nearly two decades of experience, Samantha specializes in estate planning, trust administration, and fiduciary income tax matters. She has a unique ability to make complex estate planning discussions approachable.

North Carolina Bar Admission, 2013
Member, 10th Judicial District Bar

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Karen Donaldson Attorney at Law

Karen Donaldson, Esq., is an estate planning and elder law attorney who brings personal experience and over 20 years of legal expertise to help families plan with clarity and compassion. She’s dedicated to creating thoughtful, effective solutions that protect what matters most.

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Learn How Our North Carolina Trust Administration Attorneys Can Help

Successful trust administration in North Carolina requires an understanding of the trust document as well as the state and federal trust laws. Strauss Attorneys, PLLC can offer comprehensive trust administration services tailored to your unique circumstances.

Whether you need assistance with documentation, asset management, tax filing, or legal representation, our team has the resources to guide you. Let our North Carolina trust administration attorneys support your estate administration duties by ensuring an efficient process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.