When Trusts Cause Confusion: What the Law Says About Ambiguity

Even the most carefully drafted trusts can leave people with more questions than answers. Despite their long history and common use, trusts often contain language that doesn’t translate well to modern circumstances. Many rely on boilerplate provisions passed down over time, or include instructions that only made sense to the person who created the trust […]
Ways Partners Commit Fraud—and How to Protect Yourself

Business partner misconduct is more common than many entrepreneurs realize—and it can destroy companies, careers, and reputations. When one partner betrays the trust of another, the fallout can lead to complex litigation, financial loss, and the unraveling of years of hard work. Below, we outline the most common ways business partners defraud each other, the […]
Trustee Troubles? How a Motion for Instructions Can Help

Trustees are often asked to make difficult decisions under circumstances that the trustee did not anticipate before accepting the role. In some cases, the language in the trust instrument isn’t clear, and the trustee may be unsure of what to do. In others, one or more beneficiaries may disagree with a trustee’s plans for the […]
Put the Trust in Trustee – Trustee Responsibilities and Beneficiary Rights as Told Through Tony Bennett’s Estate

Whether you are a trust beneficiary or the trustee, you need to know what that means to avoid issues and potentially costly expenses. Trustees have duties—both in the law and outlined in the trust agreement. Beneficiaries have rights—also in the law and outlined in the agreement. These rights and responsibilities aren’t taught in school. So, […]