Trust Litigation
Palo Alto Trust Litigation Attorney
Experienced Advocacy for High-Stakes Trust Conflicts
Trust disputes can arise at some of the most sensitive moments in a family’s life, often involving questions of intent, fairness, and financial responsibility. When concerns surface about how a trust was created, amended, or managed, skilled legal intervention becomes essential. Gilfix & La Poll provides experienced representation for clients facing serious trust-related conflicts, offering strategic guidance tailored to the complexities of California trust law. Our litigation team works diligently to resolve disputes through negotiation, mediation, or coordinated litigation when necessary, always to protect our clients’ rights and long-term financial interests.
Do you need a Palo Alto trust litigation attorney to help resolve a complex trust dispute? Call Gilfix & La Poll Associates LLP today at (650) 683-9200 or contact us online for guidance you can trust.
What Is Trust Litigation?
Trust litigation involves disputes over the validity, interpretation, or administration of a trust. These conflicts often arise when beneficiaries suspect wrongdoing, when trustees fail to fulfill legal obligations, or when sudden changes to an estate plan raise concerns about undue influence or diminished capacity. A trust is designed to protect assets and ensure they are distributed according to the grantor’s wishes, but when those intentions are questioned—or when a trustee’s actions result in losses—legal action may be required.
Trust litigation can occur before or after a decedent’s passing and may involve court petitions, accounting demands, evidentiary hearings, or removal and replacement of fiduciaries. Because these disputes frequently involve significant assets and complex family dynamics, knowledgeable representation is critical.
Common Trust Disputes We Handle
Our firm manages a wide range of trust-related conflicts, including but not limited to:
- Challenges to the creation or amendment of a trust
- Disputes over the interpretation of trust terms
- Allegations of undue influence or lack of capacity
- Questions regarding omitted beneficiaries or unexpected changes
- Trustee–beneficiary conflicts involving asset distribution or reporting
- Concerns about losses to trust value
Every trust dispute is unique, and our team evaluates each case to determine the most effective approach—whether that means resolving matters privately or pursuing structured litigation.
Signs of Trustee Misconduct
Trustees have a legal duty to manage trust assets responsibly, act impartially, and follow the terms of the trust. When those duties are violated, beneficiaries may experience financial loss, unequal treatment, or a lack of transparency.
Common indicators of trustee misconduct include:
Common indicators of trustee misconduct include:
- Unexplained withdrawals or missing assets
- Failure to provide required accountings or financial updates
- Delays in trust distributions without justification
- Self-dealing, conflicts of interest, or personal use of trust funds
- Poor investment decisions resulting in unnecessary losses
- Refusal to communicate with beneficiaries
When these red flags appear, prompt legal evaluation can prevent further damage and preserve the integrity of the trust.
How We Investigate Trust Disputes
Effective trust litigation begins with a thorough and strategic investigation. Our process may include:
- Analyzing trust documents to understand the terms, amendments, and fiduciary obligations
- Reviewing accounting records and financial statements for signs of mismanagement or irregularities
- Interviewing beneficiaries, professionals, and involved parties to assess the history of the dispute
- Working with forensic and financial experts to evaluate asset performance and identify potential misconduct
- Evaluating the trustee’s actions against California’s statutory duties to determine if removal or surcharge is warranted
This comprehensive approach allows us to build strong cases grounded in evidence, legal authority, and a clear demonstration of harm.
Contact Our Palo Alto Trust Litigation Lawyer Today
Trust disputes often involve sensitive family dynamics, significant assets, and questions about a loved one’s true intentions. Our litigation team brings decades of experience to these matters, offering steady guidance and strong advocacy when conflicts arise. We work to resolve disputes efficiently whenever possible, but we are fully prepared to escalate to aggressive litigation when a case requires it. Whether challenging the validity of a trust, addressing concerns about trustee conduct, or defending against allegations, our Palo Alto trust litigation attorneys are committed to pursuing practical, just outcomes for every client.
Contact our dedicated Palo Alto trust litigation attorney now to protect your rights and move your case forward.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trust Litigation
Why Choose Gilfix & La Poll Associates LLP?
Unparalleled Experience, Knowledge & Strategies
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Certified Specialists in Estate Planning & Elder Law
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Co-Founder of the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys
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Pioneers in Elder Law & Estate Planning
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Hundreds of Millions of Clients' Dollars in Taxes Saved
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Thousands of Families in the Community Served
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Over 35 Years of Serving the Bay Area
Real People. Real Feedback.
Hear What Our Past Clients Have To Say
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"Your letter to the Medi-Cal office did the trick. They are no longer threatening to put a lien on my house. I cannot thank you enough for helping me protect my home."
Your letter to the Medi-Cal office did the trick. They are no longer threatening to put a lien on my house. I cannot thank ...
D.S. -
"I now understand why the trust will save our family a fortune in tax!"
Thank you for the help in setting up the trust for our family. After my husband's death, I saw how tremendously valuable it ...
M.M.G. -
"When my husband passed away, my attorney at Gilfix & La Poll Associates LLP explained all the steps that have to be taken, saw to it that all steps were taken, and literally held my hand through the process."
When my husband passed away, my attorney at Gilfix & La Poll Associates LLP explained all the steps that have to be taken, ...
J.T. -
"I want to express my gratitude for your professionalism and your invaluable assistance during our recent meeting on behalf of my parents."
I want to express my gratitude for your professionalism and your invaluable assistance during our recent meeting on behalf of ...
J.J. -
"I heard of the Special Needs Trust before, but I never understood it until you so patiently and clearly explained it to me. We now have one in place for our son."
I heard of the Special Needs Trust before, but I never understood it until you so patiently and clearly explained it to me. ...
A.M. -
"Absolutely superb, respectful and very compassionate in the manner that you spoke to my parents about a very difficult situation."
I will never forget you. I have passed your name on to numerous friends with similar situations. You are absolutely superb, ...
K.S.M.
