Obtain a copy of the trust and read it. It is imperative that you read the trust and understand its instructions.   The trustee or co-trustees (and only the trustees) have a legal obligation for all the assets in the trust, managing those assets, and distributing the assets per the instructions of the trust.

Most of those thrust into the role of trustee, conservator, or guardian aren’t professional fiduciaries trained in the intricacies of trust and estate management. They are sons and daughters, siblings, parents, cousins, or loyal friends who are viewed as responsible, organized, and ethical. But being a trustee is a complicated occupation, and to be very clear, it is a full time occupation. Managing an estate is highly complex, with a lot of moving parts. It has strict legal requirements, which if not followed can lead to personal consequences for the trustee/administrator.