Getting a copy of the trust agreement is an essential aspect of estate planning. The trust agreement is a legal document that outlines how a person’s assets are to be distributed after their death. This document is created to ensure that an individual’s wishes are carried out even after their passing. If you are a beneficiary or a trustee, it is essential to know where to get a copy of the trust agreement.
The first place to start when looking for a copy of the trust agreement is with the person who created the trust. The individual who created the trust should have a copy of the document. If the person is still alive, they can provide beneficiaries or trustees with a copy of the trust agreement. If the individual has passed away, the executor of their estate may have a copy of the trust agreement.
Another way to get a copy of the trust agreement is to contact the attorney who created the document. Often, the attorney will have a copy of the trust agreement on file, especially if they are still representing the trust. If the attorney is no longer available, you can contact the bar association in the state where the trust was created, and they can provide you with a list of attorneys who specialize in estate planning.
If the trust agreement was filed with a court, you can also get a copy of it at the court. It is important to note that filing the trust agreement with the court is not always required, and not all trusts are filed with a court. However, if the trust agreement was filed with a court, it is a public record, and anyone can access it.
Lastly, you can search for the trust agreement in the deceased person’s files, including their home, office, or safe deposit box. If the trust agreement cannot be found, you may need to contact a probate attorney to help you locate the document.
In conclusion, getting a copy of the trust agreement is crucial for beneficiaries and trustees. The best place to start is with the person who created the trust, their attorney, or the executor of their estate. If the trust agreement was filed with a court, you can also access it there. If none of these options work, consider contacting a probate attorney to help you locate the document. With some persistence and diligence, you can get a copy of the trust agreement and ensure that the deceased person’s wishes are carried out correctly.
