Increasingly, private trusts are being drafted into service to help transfer and manage multi-generational wealth. But even the most well-crafted trusts are not immune to conflict. A range of concerns can spark trust-related disputes—from the validity of its formation and the interpretation of its provisions to the way it is being administered.

We represent families, individual beneficiaries, trustees, and other trust officers in navigating these complex, high-stakes disputes. We litigate and resolve matters involving:

  • Breaches of fiduciary duty and failure to meet standards of care.
  • Trust investment and asset allocation propriety, including challenges to portfolio management.
  • Formal accountings of trust finances and forensic reviews.
  • Mismanagement and self-dealing, including trustee removal or surcharge actions.
  • Validity challenges based on fraud, undue influence, or lack of capacity.

Trust disputes are not limited to beneficiaries and trustees. Conflict frequently arises between fiduciaries administering the same trust. Our experience includes representing trust officers in disputes between co-trustees involving failure to cooperate, information sharing breaches, and disagreements over trustee voting measures.

When trust conflicts escalate into full-scale litigation, they can exact significant financial, emotional, and reputational tolls. We recognize that “litigating at all costs” is rarely the goal and often at odds with a client’s true interests. Instead, we help our clients objectively assess their capacity and appetite for a protracted court battle. For many, defusing a dispute through strategic negotiation or mediation is the most effective way to protect their interests. Regardless of the path chosen, we work alongside our clients at every step to achieve a resolution that aligns with their ultimate goals and brings greater peace of mind.