Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

You can probably fight the trustee on this issue, but, before really knowing what to do, the terms of the trust need to be reviewed. The terms of the trust will determine what you are entitled to receive and when. I assume that you have been sent a notice from the Trustee and were given the right to a copy of the Trust. I also assume that at least annually, you have been delivered an accounting of the Trust. These are requirements under the probate code in California. I am also concerned that a house has been left vacant for 5 years. The Trustee's duties do not allow for assets to sit idle and not obtain a return. The house should have been rented to get the income. If the Trustee has not done his job properly, it is possible that the Trustee can both be surcharged and possibly replaced with a successor Trustee. It is probably best for you to obtain the assistance of a California attorney and get into all the issues through legal representation rather than trying to accomplish something on your own.

Mr. Rimer has provided excellent advice. You should consult with an attorney close to where the house is located.

Good luck!

It is impractical to answer your question effectively without knowing exactly what the trust instrument provides. I suggest you engage California trust counsel to assist you.