Administration of Trusts, Estates & Probate

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Administration of Trusts, Estates and Probate

Trusted Legal Guidance for a Smooth Estate or Trust Settlement

Settling a trust or estate is more than paperwork—it’s a legal process full of important deadlines, potential pitfalls, and emotional complexity. Whether you’re acting as an Executor or Trustee, you carry a fiduciary responsibility that can be overwhelming without the right guidance. At Pinna, Johnston & Burwell, P.A., we help clients navigate the probate and trust administration process with clarity, compassion, and precision. We’re here to help you protect your loved one’s legacy—and your peace of mind.

Our experienced team of attorneys, paralegals, and accountants works closely with fiduciaries to ensure all duties are properly executed. From preparing tax filings to resolving disputes, we understand the legal and human side of estate administration. We help clients remain compliant with state law, avoid costly mistakes, and protect themselves from liability. Whether the estate is straightforward or complex, we’re ready to help from start to finish.

Let Us Shoulder the Burden—So You Can Focus on What Matters

Administration of Trusts, Estates and Probate

Key Topics and Processes

1. Fiduciary Duties & Risk Management

We advise Trustees and Executors on how to carry out their legal responsibilities while avoiding liability. From record keeping to decision-making, our goal is to protect you every step of the way.

2. Beneficiary Communication & Dispute Prevention

We help fiduciaries maintain transparency and avoid conflicts with beneficiaries through clear, professional communication and proactive legal advice.

3. Asset Protection & Distribution

Preserving, managing, and properly distributing estate or trust assets is critical. We guide clients through the transfer process and help safeguard property for future generations.

4. Tax Compliance & Planning

Our attorneys and CPAs prepare estate, income, and fiduciary tax filings, and identify planning opportunities to minimize taxes and streamline administration.

Trusts, Estates and Probate Experts

Why Clients Choose Us for Estate and Trust Administration

The loss of a loved one brings emotional weight. The legal steps that follow don’t have to add confusion or stress. With decades of experience handling estates and trusts of all sizes, we’ve built a reputation for thoughtful, efficient, and ethical guidance. We’re here to make sure every step is done right—and to help you avoid unnecessary delays, disputes, or liabilities.

Depth of Experience

Our team has decades of experience advising fiduciaries and handling probate matters of all sizes and complexity.

Protective Legal Strategy

We help Executors and Trustees avoid legal traps, mitigate risk, and fulfill their obligations with confidence.

Complete Support

From tax filings to asset transfers, we handle the details so you can focus on honoring your loved one’s wishes.

FAQ - Administration of Trusts, Estates & Probate

What is probate and when is it required?

Probate is the legal process of validating a will and administering an estate through the court system. It’s typically required when a person dies owning assets in their name alone. We help guide clients through this process efficiently and minimize court involvement where possible.

What does a Trustee or Executor actually do?

Executors and Trustees are responsible for gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property according to the will or trust. They also must act in the best interest of the beneficiaries. We advise fiduciaries to ensure they meet all legal obligations and avoid personal liability.

How long does the administration process take?

The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the estate or trust, as well as any disputes or tax matters involved. Many matters are resolved in 6–12 months, though others may take longer. We work proactively to keep things moving smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.

What if beneficiaries don’t agree?

Disputes among beneficiaries can complicate and slow down administration. We help clients reduce the risk of conflict by ensuring clear communication, legal compliance, and neutral, third-party guidance when needed.

Are taxes due when settling an estate or trust?

Often, yes. Estate taxes, income taxes, and fiduciary taxes may all be involved depending on the value and structure of the estate. Our attorneys and CPAs help prepare and file all required returns while identifying strategies to minimize tax exposure.