Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Michigan

trust administrator obligations

My father died seven

months ago and placed

his estate in a trust

administered by his bank,

for distribution among his

heirs. The bank has

negligently allowed

extensive water damage

to occur in the home

while they have been in

charge. What is the

standard for global trust

services my father, and

now we six out-of-town

heirs, have paid for in

monthly fees with regard

to protection of the

equity in his home? (It

was only our visit that

prompted recognition of

the damage.) Can the

fees be accessed for

restoration expenses?

Thank you!


Asked on 2/15/09, 4:34 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Timothy Klisz Klisz Law Office, PLLC

Re: trust administrator obligations

the bank should be surcharged by the probate court and these losses should be covered. Visit www.kliszlaw.com to discuss the options here. Tim Klisz

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Answered on 2/15/09, 4:41 pm

Re: trust administrator obligations

If the damage occurred as a result of the negligence of the bank, the beneficiaries can seek a surcharge against the Trustees for failure to act in a reasonable fashion. However, the Trustees if they seek to defend the action and are found not to be guilty of any negligence here, the cost of the defense would be reimbursed from the Trust.

The beneficiaries could seek to replace the bank if they believe they are not acting in the best interest of the Trust and its beneficiaries.

Please feel free to contact me without obligation.

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Answered on 2/15/09, 6:07 pm


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