FAQ — Life Care Trustee San Diego Fiduciary Services

Question 1

What is a professional trustee?

Accepted Answer

A professional trustee is a licensed fiduciary appointed to manage a trust on behalf of its beneficiaries. Unlike a family member or friend serving as trustee, a professional trustee brings legal expertise, impartiality, and full-time dedication to administering the trust — handling investments, accounting, distributions, tax coordination, and beneficiary communication with complete transparency.

Question 2

Why would I choose a professional trustee over a family member?

Accepted Answer

Not everyone has an available family member.  Family members often face emotional conflicts, lack the time or expertise, and may inadvertently create family tension when making difficult financial decisions. A professional trustee is neutral, experienced, and solely focused on honoring the trust's terms and protecting the beneficiaries' interests — without the personal dynamics that can complicate family-managed trusts.

Question 3

Can I name Life Care Trustee as successor trustee in my existing trust?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can amend your existing revocable trust to name Life Care Trustee as your successor trustee — the person or entity who steps in when you are no longer able to serve. We work with your estate planning attorney to ensure the transition is seamless and your wishes are fully documented.

Question 4

How does a professional trustee get paid?

Accepted Answer

Professional trustee fees are typically hourly as  needed or calculated as a percentage of the trust's assets, billed annually or monthly. For Life Care Trustee, fees range from 0.98 basis points to 1.5% of trust assets annually, or $175 per hour depending on the nature of the work. All fees are disclosed upfront in your engagement agreement and comply with California Probate Code guidelines.

Question 5

What does it mean to be a fiduciary?

Accepted Answer

A fiduciary is legally and ethically obligated to act in the best interests of the person they serve — above all other interests, including their own. As a licensed professional fiduciary, Life Care Trustee is bound by California law, the Professional Fiduciary Association of California's code of ethics, and the National Certified Guardian standards to always prioritize your wellbeing and wishes.

Question 6

What is the difference between a trustee and a conservator?

Accepted Answer

A trustee manages assets held inside a trust document, following the instructions the trust creator established. A conservator is appointed by a court to manage the financial affairs of a living person who can no longer do so themselves due to incapacity, illness, or cognitive decline. Both roles carry fiduciary duties, but conservatorship involves ongoing court oversight and reporting.

Question 7

What is a National Certified Guardian (NCG)?

Accepted Answer

The National Certified Guardian (NCG) credential is awarded by the Center for Guardianship Certification to professionals who meet rigorous standards of education, experience, and ethical practice in guardianship and conservatorship. It is a nationally recognized mark of excellence that demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of care for vulnerable individuals.

Question 8

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The first step is a free, confidential consultation. I'll take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and explain how we can help. There is no pressure and no obligation. Simply call me, send an email, or complete the contact form on our website and I'll be in touch with you soon.

Question 9

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Life Care Trustee primarily serves clients throughout San Diego County, including Fallbrook to Chula Vista.  San Diego, and surrounding communities. Please contact us if you are outside this area — we may still be able to assist depending on your circumstances.

Question 10

Do you offer discounts for military or public safety personnel?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and we are proud to do so. Life Care Trustee offers fee discounts to all active duty, reserve, and veteran members of the U.S. Armed Forces, as well as active and retired law enforcement officers and firefighters. Please mention your service during your initial consultation and we will confirm the discount details in your engagement agreement.

Question 11

What happens during the initial consultation?

Accepted Answer

The initial consultation is a relaxed, confidential conversation — typically 30 to 60 minutes. We'll listen to your situation, explain the relevant services, answer any questions you have, and discuss next steps if you'd like to move forward. There is absolutely no obligation to engage our services after the consultation.

Question 12

How quickly can you step in if there is an urgent need?

Accepted Answer

I understand that fiduciary needs can arise suddenly — due to a health crisis, a family emergency, or a court order. I make every effort to respond promptly to urgent situations. Please call me directly if your matter is time-sensitive and I will prioritize your case. I am always on  call for current clients.

Answers to Your Most Important Questions

Professional Trustee Services

Fiduciary Duties & Responsibilities

Working With Life Care Trustee

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