Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

My brother passed away in California August 2013. He has three children by a former marriage. His current wife refuses to show the Trust Documents and Will to these children.

Q. Under California Law is she required to show them these documents?


Asked on 9/04/13, 12:28 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Charles Perry Law Offices of Charles R. Perry

That depends on the contents of the trust document. The controlling law is Probate Code 16061.7, and much depends on whether the trust is now irrevocable.

If the trust became irrevocable upon the passing of your brother, then the children are entitled to a copy of the trust document. They may wish to retain counsel to enforce their rights here.

Note also that this answer assumes the trust is governed by California law.

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Answered on 9/04/13, 12:40 am
Anthony Roach Law Office of Anthony A. Roach

I say yes, given what you have provided and the terms of Probate Code section 16061.7.

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Answered on 9/04/13, 6:50 am
William Christian Rodi Pollock

I agree. She should, in general, be providing a notice of the right to obtain a copy of the trust. You likely need to engage counsel to send her a letter.

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Answered on 9/04/13, 10:19 am


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