Trust Administration Attorney
in Seattle, WA

Guiding Trustees and Families with Calm, Clarity, and Confidence

When a loved one passes away with a trust in place, the responsibility of carrying out their wishes falls to the trustee. At Heartwood Law, we help trustees and families navigate the trust administration process with care, precision, and compassion. Whether you're serving in this role for the first time or need guidance through a complex situation, we’re here to walk you through it every step of the way.

What Is Trust Administration?

Trust administration is the process of managing and distributing the assets held in a trust after the grantor (the person who created the trust) has passed away or become incapacitated. While this process usually avoids court involvement, it still comes with important legal duties, deadlines, and potential risks for the trustee.

Some of those responsibilities may include:

  • Notifying beneficiaries and relevant parties

  • Marshaling and managing trust assets

  • Paying debts, taxes, and final expenses

  • Keeping accurate records and providing accountings

  • Distributing assets according to the trust’s terms

We help ensure these steps are handled correctly and efficiently, protecting both the trustee and the integrity of the trust.

Support for Trustees and Beneficiaries

At Heartwood Law, we provide trusted legal guidance to:

  • First-time trustees who need a clear explanation of their role

  • Family members managing trusts after a death or incapacity

  • Successor trustees stepping into the role unexpectedly

  • Beneficiaries with questions about their rights under the trust

We serve clients throughout Seattle, West Seattle, White Center, Burien, Bellevue, and surrounding King County communities and the Puget Sound. No matter your situation, we’ll help you understand what needs to be done and ensure you’re not navigating it alone..

Our Trust Administration Services

We tailor our services to fit the complexity of each trust. Support may include:

Legal guidance for trustees to fulfill their duties lawfully and confidently

  • Notice and communication to beneficiaries and other parties

  • Asset identification and valuation

  • Help with tax filings and creditor claims

  • Distribution plans that follow the trust terms while minimizing conflict

  • Mediation or referral if disputes arise between beneficiaries or co-trustees

Trust administration involves both legal and practical steps, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. We bring calm to the process and help you stay on track from beginning to end.

Why Families Choose Heartwood Law

Attorney Jessica Webb approaches trust administration with empathy, precision, and a deep commitment to integrity. With over 20 years of experience and a focus on estate and elder law, she understands both the legal complexities and the emotional weight that families often carry during this time.

Clients appreciate her clear communication, patient explanations, and hands-on support. Our goal is to make your role as trustee less stressful and more manageable while protecting your loved one’s legacy.

Get Trusted Guidance for Trust Administration

If you’ve been named as a trustee or are unsure how to proceed after a loved one’s passing, we’re here to help. One conversation can give you clarity and a plan for moving forward with confidence.

Need Help Administering a Trust?

Contact Heartwood Law to schedule your consultation today.