While most trusts drafted today contain provisions that make removing or changing a trustee relatively simple, older trusts do not normally have such provisions. This can make removing an unwanted trustee difficult for beneficiaries.
Many good reasons exist for why a trust beneficiary might want to change trustees. The beneficiary might have moved to another state and prefer a trustee who is closer. The trust investments might have evolved and a trustee with different investment expertise might be needed. Modern trusts normally contain provisions that allow removing a trustee in these types of situations. However, for trusts that do not have such provisions, which includes most older trusts, removing a trustee can be difficult. Unless the trustee voluntarily resigns, the beneficiary will have to go to court and prove that the trustee has done something negligent or worse.
A recent article in Barron’s, titled “Dumping a Trustee,“ explains that in some states it is getting easier for beneficiaries to remove unwanted trustees. This is especially true in states that have adopted the Uniform Trust Code. The Code empowers beneficiaries to remove a trustee on a no-fault basis. This means the beneficiary still needs a good reason for the request, but that reason does not have to rise to the level of wrongdoing by the trustee.
As the article details, if bank mergers have caused the original bank trustee to no longer exist or to have merged with a much larger out-of-state bank, that can be a good enough reason to change trustees.
If you are a beneficiary considering removing a trustee, then, regardless of any provisions in the trust, you should first consult with an experienced estate planning attorney. That is the best way to learn what the rules are in your state and how any trust provisions might affect trustee removal.
Please contact our office today at 239-225-7911 to schedule an appointment with Barbara M. Pizzolato if you are interested in protecting your legacy and need to create or update your estate plan. Â You may also wish to attend one of our free seminars.
Reference: Barron’s (September 27, 2014) “Dumping A Trustee“
