Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a trust review different from a new estate plan?
A trust review is an evaluation of what you already have — it is not a drafting engagement. We read your documents, analyze how they interact with current law and your asset picture, and deliver a written report. If drafting is needed, that is a separate engagement.
What documents do I need to provide?
At minimum, the trust instrument and any amendments. Helpful additions include any deeds to real property titled in the trust or your personal name, beneficiary designation forms for retirement accounts and life insurance, and any powers of attorney or healthcare directives you already have.
Do I need to come to your office?
No. The intake call and consultation are available by phone or Zoom. Document uploads are handled through our secure portal. Clients outside the Bay Area are welcome to engage remotely.
What if my review finds nothing that needs to be fixed?
That is a good result, and not uncommon. You will still receive a written report confirming the analysis. Some clients find the report useful on its own — as documentation for their successor trustee or family members.
Can you handle the amendments if my review identifies changes?
Yes. If the review identifies provisions that need updating, we will quote any drafting work separately. You are under no obligation to use us for any follow-on work.
What is Proposition 19 and why does it matter to my trust?
Proposition 19, effective February 16, 2021, significantly narrowed the parent-child exclusion from property tax reassessment. Under the prior law, children could inherit a parent's property — including investment property — without triggering reassessment. Under Prop 19, the exclusion now applies only to a primary residence, and only if the child uses it as their own primary residence. Many trusts drafted before 2021 were structured around the old exclusion. If your trust holds real property intended for family members, a Prop 19 analysis is part of any Standard Review. If you are in the process of acquiring real property to place in trust, see our
Buyer Contract Review & Representation service.
My parent just died and I was named successor trustee — which tier applies to me?
The Successor Trustee Orientation is designed for this situation. It covers your duties under the Probate Code, the required notice to beneficiaries under § 16061.7, accounting obligations, and distribution mechanics. If the trust involves significant complexity — a blended family, a business interest, or an out-of-state property — the Complex Review may be more appropriate. The intake call is the right place to confirm which tier fits.
How long does the review take from start to finish?
After we receive all documents, review and consultation are typically scheduled within two weeks. The written report is delivered within one week after the consultation. Total time from intake to report is usually three to four weeks.
Are fees refundable?
Our fee structure covers the completed review and consultation. If we have begun work and you decide not to proceed, fees already earned for work performed are not refundable. The engagement letter will specify the fee and what constitutes completion.
Do you serve clients outside the Bay Area?
Yes. Our attorneys are licensed to practice throughout California. Consultations are available by phone or Zoom, and we regularly assist clients in Sacramento, San Joaquin, Orange County, and other regions.
Do you offer this service in Vietnamese?
Yes. Consultations are available in English and Vietnamese. If you would prefer to discuss your trust in Vietnamese, please note that when scheduling.
Who actually reviews my documents?
Your documents are reviewed by a licensed California attorney. We do not delegate trust review work to non-attorney staff.