A Certification of Trust provides a concise summary of a trust’s existence and the trustee’s authority without revealing the trust’s full terms. For Bodfish and Kern County residents planning their estates, this short document is commonly used to show third parties, like banks or title companies, that a trustee has power to act on behalf of the trust. It is especially useful when transactions must proceed smoothly and institutions require proof of authority but not the private details of the trust agreement. Understanding how a certification works helps trustees and beneficiaries protect privacy while completing necessary financial or property matters.
When managing trust affairs in California, having a clear and properly prepared Certification of Trust can prevent delays and reduce requests for unnecessary documents. This document typically lists the trust name, date, trustee information, and a citation of the powers granted to a trustee. In many cases, institutions accept the certification in lieu of viewing the full trust, which preserves confidentiality. Preparing the certification correctly avoids challenges to trustee authority and streamlines transactions involving banking, real estate, and retirement accounts, offering a practical balance between demonstrating authority and protecting sensitive trust provisions.
A Certification of Trust offers important benefits for trustees and beneficiaries seeking to manage assets efficiently. It serves as a minimal disclosure document that confirms the trust exists, identifies the trustee, and states the trustee’s power to act, which institutions commonly require before allowing access to trust assets or completing real property transfers. By using a certification, parties avoid exposing detailed trust provisions, maintain privacy, and reduce administrative friction. Additionally, a well-crafted certification reduces the likelihood of disputes over authority and can speed the processing of transactions involving banks, title companies, and other third parties.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman assists clients across Bodfish and Kern County with practical estate planning and trust administration matters. Our approach emphasizes clear communication, careful document drafting, and responsive support for trustees and families navigating trust-related transactions. We help prepare certifications, coordinate with financial institutions and title companies, and advise on trustee powers and responsibilities under California law. Our goal is to make the administration of trusts as straightforward and secure as possible, helping clients complete necessary steps while preserving privacy and avoiding unnecessary complications during transfers and account management.
A Certification of Trust is a narrowly focused document that serves as proof of a trust’s existence and the trustee’s authority to act. It is not a substitute for the entire trust agreement but is intended to provide third parties with the specific information they need to recognize and deal with a trustee. Typical elements include the trust name, date, the trustee’s identity, and the powers granted to the trustee. In many situations, banks and title companies will accept a certification rather than requesting the trust instrument itself, which helps protect the privacy of the trust’s terms and beneficiaries.
Using a Certification of Trust appropriately requires attention to detail, because institutions may have their own form requirements and standards for accepting the document. California law offers guidance on what may be included in a certification and how a trustee can present it. Preparing a certification that closely matches institutional expectations reduces the chance of further requests or rejections. Trustees should also understand that presenting a false or incomplete certification can lead to liability; accurate identification and clear statement of the trustee’s authority are essential when completing transactions on behalf of a trust.
A Certification of Trust is a limited disclosure instrument that confirms the existence of a trust and delineates specific powers of the trustee without revealing private provisions. It typically identifies the trust by name and date, provides the trustee’s name and contact information, and lists the powers being relied upon for a particular transaction. The certification may also include a statement that the trust has not been revoked or modified in ways that alter the trustee’s authority. Because it avoids public exposure of the trust terms, it helps trustees complete banking and real estate transactions while preserving confidentiality for beneficiaries.
Key elements of a certification usually include identifying information about the trust, clear identification of current trustees, and a concise statement of the specific powers being asserted. The process begins with confirming the trust’s current status, identifying the powers under the trust instrument, and drafting a short document that institutions can rely upon. Trustees should also gather supporting evidence, such as identification and any institution-specific forms. Timely communication with banks, title companies, and other parties helps ensure the certification meets expectations and avoids repeated requests for the full trust document.
Understanding common terms used with certifications of trust helps trustees and beneficiaries navigate transactions with confidence. Definitions clarify what institutions expect when they request proof of a trustee’s authority and how California law frames those requests. This section covers essential vocabulary such as trustee, trustor or settlor, beneficiary, notarization where appropriate, and the limited scope of the certification itself. Familiarity with these terms reduces confusion and enables more efficient communications with financial institutions, title companies, and advisors during trust administration and asset transfers.
A trust is a legal arrangement in which a settlor transfers legal title to assets to a trustee to hold and manage for the benefit of named beneficiaries. Trusts can be used to manage assets during a settlor’s lifetime, provide for distribution at death, and achieve goals such as privacy, probate avoidance, and management for minors or people with special needs. The trust document sets out powers, duties, and distribution rules. In the context of a certification, the trust is identified by name and date so that third parties can confirm which trust grants the trustee the authority to act.
A trustee is the person or entity authorized to manage and distribute trust assets according to the terms of the trust document. Trustees have a duty to act in the beneficiaries’ best interests and to follow the trust’s provisions and applicable law. When presenting a Certification of Trust, the trustee confirms their authority to act and often provides proof of identity. This confirmation allows financial institutions and other parties to accept the trustee’s actions without requesting the full trust instrument, thereby maintaining the trust’s confidentiality while enabling necessary transactions.
A beneficiary is an individual or entity entitled to benefits from the trust, either now or in the future, according to the trust document. Beneficiaries may receive income, principal, or contingency interests as specified. While beneficiaries are central to how a trust operates, their names and interests are not typically disclosed in a Certification of Trust, which is designed to confirm trustee authority without revealing private distributions or conditions. Trustees must still consider beneficiary interests when exercising authority and follow the trust’s terms in administering assets.
Trust powers are the authorities granted to a trustee by the trust instrument, such as the power to sell property, manage bank accounts, or convey real estate. A Certification of Trust usually cites the specific powers relevant to a transaction so institutions can rely on the trustee’s authority for that action. Clear citation of the trust powers and their source in the trust document helps avoid confusion and provides the minimum information required by third parties while leaving confidential trust details private.
When dealing with banks, title companies, or other institutions, trustees often face a choice between presenting a Certification of Trust and providing the full trust document. A certification is a focused, privacy-preserving option that confirms authority without revealing sensitive terms. In contrast, full disclosure of the trust instrument provides complete transparency but may expose confidential beneficiary information and distribution plans. Choosing the appropriate route depends on the institution’s policies and the trustee’s desire to protect privacy. Often a well-crafted certification is accepted and achieves transaction goals without broader disclosure.
For routine banking matters such as accessing trust bank accounts, updating account signatories, or completing transfers, institutions frequently accept a Certification of Trust in place of the full trust document. This approach provides the bank with essential assurance of trustee authority while keeping the trust’s internal provisions private. Trustees should confirm the bank’s specific form requirements and be prepared to provide supporting identity documentation so that access and management of accounts proceed efficiently without unnecessary exposure of confidential trust terms or beneficiary information.
For straightforward real estate matters such as signing deeds to transfer title or handling routine escrow tasks, title companies and escrow officers often accept a Certification of Trust that confirms the trustee’s power to convey property. This provides a streamlined path for completing property transfers without disclosing detailed trust provisions. Trustees should ensure the certification includes the relevant authority and matches the title company’s procedural requirements to prevent delays. When institutions require additional assurance, temporary requests for further documentation can usually be resolved without revealing the trust’s private terms.
In situations involving complex asset transfers, disputed trustee authority, or unclear trust provisions, institutions may request the full trust document or further legal review. When parties contest a trustee’s power or when a transaction involves significant or unusual assets, providing the underlying trust instrument may be necessary to resolve title issues or legal questions. Trustees facing objections should seek assistance to interpret the trust language and address any disputes, ensuring transfers comply with the trust’s terms and California law while protecting the interests of beneficiaries.
Some banks, lenders, or title companies maintain policies that require review of the full trust document prior to completing certain transactions. This may occur when the trust is newly formed, when the institution’s risk policies are conservative, or when the transaction involves mortgage financing or complex property interests. In such cases, trustees should be ready to provide the trust instrument and work with the institution to address concerns. A careful review helps confirm trustee powers and can facilitate a safe and compliant transfer of assets under the trust’s terms.
Taking a comprehensive approach to trust documentation protects trustees and beneficiaries by minimizing ambiguity and preventing delays. Preparing a clear Certification of Trust and having the full trust available if needed helps trustees respond to varied institutional requirements. Thorough preparation reduces the chance of disputes over authority, streamlines interactions with banks and title companies, and preserves the trust’s confidentiality when appropriate. This proactive planning also supports continuity in administration and creates a reliable record of the trustee’s actions and the legal basis for those actions.
Comprehensive preparation includes confirming trustee appointments, verifying trust dates and amendments, and preparing a certification that accurately cites the powers being used for transactions. When a full trust review is necessary, having organized documents and a clear summary of relevant provisions saves time and reduces costs. This careful approach benefits beneficiaries by ensuring transactions are handled according to the trust’s terms and reduces the likelihood of institutional rejections or legal challenges that can create friction and added expense during trust administration.
Careful documentation and clear certifications lead to greater certainty when completing transactions on behalf of a trust. Institutions prefer definitive statements about trustee authority, and a well-prepared certification reduces back-and-forth requests and the chance of rejected transactions. This means fewer delays for beneficiaries awaiting distributions or for trustees handling property transfers. Reliable documentation also protects trustees by providing a clear record of the authorities relied upon during administration, which can be important if questions arise later about the validity of actions taken on behalf of the trust.
A thoughtfully prepared Certification of Trust preserves the privacy of the trust’s detailed provisions while enabling necessary transactions, which helps keep beneficiary information and distribution terms confidential. When combined with a clear protocol for providing the full trust only when absolutely necessary, this approach balances transparency with privacy. Trustees can manage assets without exposing sensitive family or financial matters publicly. The result is a more discreet administration that still meets institutional needs and supports the long-term protection of trust assets for intended beneficiaries.
Before presenting a Certification of Trust, contact the bank, title company, or other institution to learn their specific document requirements and any preferred formats. Policies vary between institutions and even between branches, so confirming expectations in advance prevents wasted effort and speeds transactions. Gather identification documents, trustee appointment records, and any institutional forms they require. Preparing materials tailored to the institution’s preferences reduces the chance of additional requests and keeps the process moving smoothly while protecting the trust’s confidentiality.
Use the Certification of Trust to provide only the information required by the institution, avoiding inclusion of detailed distribution provisions or beneficiary details. This maintains privacy while giving third parties what they need to recognize trustee authority. Where a full trust review is requested, discuss with the institution whether redacted provisions or limited disclosure can satisfy their requirements. Protecting sensitive trust terms while fulfilling institutional requirements helps trustees balance confidentiality with the need to complete transactions effectively.
Residents in Bodfish who manage trusts often need a practical way to show trustee authority without exposing private trust terms. A Certification of Trust meets that need by confirming the trust’s existence and the trustee’s powers in a concise format that banks, title companies, and other institutions typically accept. This approach supports efficient account management, property transfers, and other transactions while preserving confidentiality. For trustees and families seeking to avoid probate delays and maintain clear control over assets, a certification is a useful tool in day-to-day trust administration.
Choosing to prepare a Certification of Trust also reduces administrative obstacles that can arise when institutions demand the full trust agreement. With a properly prepared certification and supporting identity documents, trustees are better positioned to complete transactions quickly and with less disclosure. That efficiency benefits beneficiaries who rely on timely distributions and supports trustees in fulfilling duties. Knowing when and how to use a certification is an important part of practical estate planning and trust administration in the Bodfish and greater Kern County area.
Several routine circumstances often require a Certification of Trust, including accessing trust bank accounts, making changes to account signers, transferring or selling real estate held in trust, and interacting with title or escrow companies during property closings. Institutions commonly request proof of trustee authority to ensure transactions are valid. Having a certification ready and tailored to the institution’s needs reduces delays and preserves privacy. Trustees should be prepared to present identification and any additional forms requested by the institution to complete the transaction efficiently.
When a trustee needs to manage trust bank accounts, institutions typically require documentation confirming the trustee’s authority. A Certification of Trust often satisfies these requirements and allows trustees to make deposits, withdrawals, or transfer funds in accordance with the trust’s terms. Trustees should confirm the bank’s preferred format and provide identification to support the certification. This approach helps prevent interruptions in account access and supports orderly financial management for beneficiaries who depend on trust distributions.
Title companies and escrow officers frequently require assurance that the trustee has authority to convey property held in trust. Presenting a Certification of Trust that cites the trustee’s conveying powers can satisfy these requirements without exposing the full trust terms. Trustees should coordinate with the title company to confirm any additional documentation they require. Preparing the certification in advance can speed the closing process and reduce the risk of title delays, ensuring property transfers are completed with proper authority and documentation.
Certain retirement accounts and financial institutions may request a Certification of Trust when a trustee needs to manage accounts or effect changes tied to a trust. Although account rules vary, a clear certification combined with account forms and identification is often sufficient to address institutional concerns. Trustees should check each institution’s requirements for trust-related transactions and be prepared to provide any additional documentation needed to process beneficiary designations, distributions, or account changes while preserving the trust’s privacy as much as feasible.
The Law Offices of Robert P. Bergman provides local support in Bodfish for trustees preparing Certifications of Trust and handling trust administration needs. We help clients assemble the necessary information, draft a clear certification that aligns with institutional requirements, and coordinate with banks or title companies as needed. Our approach focuses on practical solutions that protect privacy and facilitate transactions. Trustees and families in Kern County can rely on careful document preparation and guidance to reduce friction and ensure trusts are administered consistent with the trust terms and applicable California law.
Clients turn to our firm for reliable guidance when preparing trust documentation because of our focus on clear drafting and attention to institutional detail. We help trustees create certifications that meet typical bank and title company requirements, preventing unnecessary delays. Our process includes reviewing the trust to confirm current trustees and powers, tailoring the certification to the transaction, and ensuring supporting documentation is in order. This practical approach saves trustees time and helps maintain privacy while advancing necessary transactions efficiently.
We prioritize direct communication with institutions and strategic preparation of documentation so trustees can complete banking, escrow, and real estate tasks with minimal friction. Our team coordinates necessary identity verification, matches institutional forms where appropriate, and prepares a concise certification that addresses the institution’s concerns. Keeping matters straightforward and well-organized reduces confusion and supports timely resolution of administrative matters, benefiting both trustees and beneficiaries who rely on effective trust management.
Our goal is to help trustees act confidently and responsibly while handling trust assets, providing practical guidance grounded in California law and common institutional practices. We focus on ensuring transactions proceed smoothly while protecting the privacy of trust terms. By preparing clear documentation and communicating with third parties on behalf of trustees when appropriate, we help reduce disruptions and support the orderly administration of trusts for Bodfish residents and other clients across Kern County.
Our process begins with an initial review of the trust document to confirm trustees, identify relevant powers, and note any amendments. We then prepare a concise Certification of Trust tailored to the transaction and the institution’s typical requirements. We verify the trustee’s identity and gather any required institutional forms or supporting documentation. Finally, we coordinate with the bank, title company, or escrow agent to help ensure acceptance of the certification and to address any follow-up requests, all while maintaining confidentiality of the trust’s internal terms.
The first step is a careful review of the trust document to confirm the current trustee, the trust’s execution date, and any amendments. This review identifies the specific powers the trustee may need to exercise for the intended transaction and ensures the trust is active and has not been revoked. Gathering accurate details at the outset prevents errors in the certification and minimizes the risk of institutional rejections. Clear documentation of trustee authority at this stage sets the foundation for a smooth transaction process.
We verify who is authorized to act as trustee and confirm the trust’s execution date and any subsequent amendments. Accurately identifying the trustee and the effective trust date ensures the certification references the correct instrument. This step involves cross-checking trust pages that show trustee appointments and any later modifications. Confirming these details avoids confusion and ensures that the certification provides the precise information institutions require to accept trustee actions without unnecessarily requesting the full trust agreement.
Next, we identify the specific powers the trustee will need to exercise for the transaction, such as authority to sell property, manage bank accounts, or sign documents. Including only the pertinent powers in the certification helps institutions focus on the authority relevant to their decisions while keeping unrelated trust provisions private. This selective approach supports efficient processing and reduces the likelihood that the institution will request the entire trust, preserving confidentiality while providing the necessary assurances to third parties.
After confirming trustee status and relevant powers, we draft a concise Certification of Trust tailored to the transaction and institution involved. The certification includes the trust name, date, trustee identity, and a citation of the powers being relied upon. We ensure the language aligns with California practices and incorporates any institution-specific wording when appropriate. Clear drafting minimizes follow-up questions and encourages acceptance of the certification by banks, title companies, and other entities involved in the transaction.
Different institutions may prefer particular phrases or formats in a certification. We adapt the certification’s wording to meet typical expectations, including any required attestation or notarization language. Tailoring the document reduces the risk that the institution will request the full trust or additional documentation. Attention to these preferences streamlines acceptance and helps trustees complete transactions more quickly and with less administrative burden while still preserving the trust’s private provisions.
Along with the certification, we prepare any supporting identification and institution-specific forms that may be required. This might include trustee identification, corporate documentation for institutional trustees, or signed acknowledgment forms. Presenting a complete package reduces delays and improves the likelihood that the institution will accept the certification without requesting the full trust. Coordinating these documents in advance allows trustees to move forward with account management and real estate transactions efficiently and with minimized administrative friction.
The final step is coordinating with the receiving institution to present the Certification of Trust and any supporting documents. We communicate with banks, title companies, and escrow agents to confirm receipt and address any follow-up questions. If an institution requests more information, we assist in determining whether a limited disclosure or full trust review is required. By managing communication and providing clear documentation, we help trustees secure institutional acceptance and complete the intended transactions with as little delay as possible.
Once the certification and supporting materials are ready, we present them to the institution and verify acceptance. This includes tracking any internal review timelines and responding promptly to requests for clarification. Confirming acceptance reduces the chances of stalled transactions and provides trustees with documentation showing the institution’s reliance on the certification. Timely follow-up keeps processes moving and helps trustees finalize transfers or account changes in an efficient manner.
If the institution requests additional documentation or the matter becomes contested, we help evaluate what is necessary and respond appropriately. This may range from supplying a redacted portion of the trust to facilitating a full review when required. Resolving follow-up requests efficiently helps prevent prolonged delays and keeps trustee responsibilities on track. Our role is to assist trustees in navigating institutional requirements while preserving confidentiality and ensuring that actions comply with the trust’s terms and relevant California law.
A Certification of Trust is a concise document that confirms the existence of a trust and identifies the trustee and the powers being asserted for a specific transaction. It is used to provide institutions with the limited information they need to allow a trustee to act, such as accessing bank accounts or conveying real property, while keeping the trust’s private terms confidential. The certification typically includes the trust name, execution date, trustee identity, and a statement that the trustee has the authority to perform the action in question. It serves as a privacy-preserving alternative to disclosing the full trust instrument. Institutions accept the certification when it provides sufficient assurance of trustee authority without raising concerns about validity. A properly drafted certification reduces the need for the full trust disclosure and speeds transactions. Trustees should prepare certifications carefully and confirm institutional preferences to ensure the document meets required standards. Accurate information and appropriate supporting identification help institutions rely on the certification in completing transactions on behalf of the trust.
Banks and title companies may accept a Certification of Trust when it provides the specific details they require to confirm a trustee’s authority for a particular transaction. Acceptance can depend on the institution’s internal policies, the nature of the transaction, and whether the certification includes the necessary powers and identification. Routine transactions like account management and straightforward property transfers often qualify for acceptance of a certification rather than the full trust document. It is advisable to confirm the institution’s requirements beforehand to avoid delays and ensure the certification is in an acceptable form. If an institution declines the certification, it may request the full trust or additional documentation. When that happens, trustees should work with the institution to learn what particular concerns prompted the request and whether a redacted version or specific excerpts would suffice. Having a clear certification and supporting records in advance typically reduces the likelihood of a request for full disclosure and helps trustees navigate institutional requirements more efficiently.
A Certification of Trust should include identifying information for the trust, such as the trust name and execution date, the name and contact information of the trustee, and a statement confirming that the trust is in effect and has not been revoked. It should also identify the specific powers the trustee is asserting for the transaction and cite the relevant provisions of the trust document. Including a statement that the trustee’s actions are authorized under the trust and any necessary notarization or acknowledgment can help institutions accept the certification with confidence. Avoid including beneficiary names or detailed distribution terms to preserve privacy; the certification should be narrowly tailored to the institution’s needs. Where an institution has a preferred form or language, adapting the certification’s wording to match those preferences increases the likelihood of acceptance. Clear, accurate information and supporting identification for the trustee strengthen the certification’s reliability for banks, title companies, and other third parties.
A trustee can face liability if a certification is knowingly false or misleading, or if the trustee acts beyond the powers granted by the trust. Trustees must be careful to verify details before signing a certification and should avoid asserting powers they do not actually possess. Maintaining accurate records, confirming trustee appointments, and reviewing the trust for relevant provisions reduces the risk of errors. When trustees rely on professional guidance and follow documented procedures, they mitigate the risk of accidental misstatements that could lead to disputes or claims. If a problem arises from an inaccurate certification, addressing it promptly and transparently is important. Corrective measures may include providing clarifying documentation or, in rare cases, seeking legal resolution if disputes occur. Trustees should act prudently, maintain clear communication with beneficiaries, and follow the trust’s terms and applicable law when asserting authority to minimize the chance of liability issues.
Notarization requirements for a Certification of Trust vary by institution and circumstance. Some banks or title companies request that the certification be notarized or include an acknowledgment to verify the trustee’s signature, while others accept the document without notarization if adequate identification is provided. Trustees should confirm the receiving party’s preferences and, when in doubt, include a notarized signature block to avoid potential delays. Notarization can add an extra layer of formality and assurance that institutions often find acceptable. Including notarization where requested can expedite acceptance and reduce follow-up questions. When a notarized certification is impractical, providing additional identification or institutional forms may satisfy the institution’s requirements. Confirming expectations in advance and preparing the requested supporting materials helps trustees complete transactions with minimal friction and ensures institutions have the verification they need to accept the certification.
For a trust established outside California, a Certification of Trust may still be used, but institutions may require that the certification reflect the governing law of the trust or include additional statements validating trustee authority. Institutions often consider the jurisdiction where the trust was executed and may request documentation or legal opinions if state laws differ materially. Trustees should communicate the trust’s origin and be prepared to provide supporting documentation that confirms the trust is valid under its governing law to satisfy institutional requirements during transactions. When dealing with interstate trust matters, coordination with the receiving institution and possibly with counsel familiar with the trust’s governing law helps prevent misunderstandings. Preparing a certification that explains the trust’s jurisdictional background and provides clear trustee identification increases the chances of acceptance. Trustees should also be aware that certain lenders or title companies may have specific policies for out-of-state trusts that require additional review or documentation.
Beneficiaries are not automatically notified each time a Certification of Trust is used, because the certification is a limited disclosure document prepared to facilitate specific transactions. However, trustees have duties to act in the beneficiaries’ interests and to keep accurate records of trust administration. Good practice includes informing beneficiaries about significant actions affecting the trust, particularly where distributions or major asset transfers occur, to maintain transparency and trust between trustees and beneficiaries. Open communication can help minimize misunderstandings and ensure beneficiaries understand the trustee’s actions. When a beneficiary requests information about a transaction, trustees should consider the trust’s reporting provisions and applicable law to determine what is appropriate to share. Trustees should balance the trust’s confidentiality with beneficiaries’ rights to information, providing clear explanations of acts taken and the legal basis for decisions when relevant. Keeping beneficiaries informed of major developments fosters confidence in the administration of the trust.
If a third party requests the full trust document, trustees should first ask why the full disclosure is necessary and whether a redacted version or a limited excerpt would satisfy their concerns. Many institutions request the full trust only when they cannot otherwise verify trustee authority. Discussing alternatives such as a more detailed certification or selected excerpts that address their specific concerns can often resolve the issue while protecting privacy. Trustees should gather clear information on the institution’s requirements before deciding whether to provide full disclosure. When full disclosure is unavoidable, trustees should take steps to protect sensitive beneficiary information, such as redacting unrelated provisions where appropriate or using secure transmission methods. Maintaining a record of the request and the institution’s stated reasons helps document the trustee’s decision-making process. If disputes arise over requested disclosure, trustees may need assistance to negotiate an acceptable solution that balances institutional needs with the trust’s confidentiality interests.
The time required to prepare a Certification of Trust depends on the trust’s complexity and the responsiveness of parties providing necessary information. For straightforward trusts where trustee appointments and powers are clear, preparing a certification can often be completed within a few business days. If the trust has been amended frequently or if there are questions about trustee status, additional time may be needed to confirm the right documents and ensure accuracy. Confirming institutional requirements in advance also shortens the overall timeline by reducing back-and-forth requests. Coordination with banks or title companies may affect timing, as some institutions have internal review periods before accepting documentation. Preparing a complete package with identification and institution-specific forms, when available, reduces the need for follow-up and speeds acceptance. Planning ahead and assembling required information helps trustees move through the process efficiently, minimizing delays for transactions that depend on the certification.
Some financial institutions and title companies provide their own forms or preferred templates for certification documents, while others accept a standard Certification of Trust drafted to reflect commonly requested information. When an institution provides a preferred form, using that format increases the likelihood of acceptance without additional requests. Trustees should ask whether the institution has a template or specific wording they require and tailor the certification accordingly to meet those expectations and simplify acceptance of trustee actions. If the institution does not provide a form, a concise certification that includes the trust name and date, trustee identity, relevant powers, and a statement that the trust is in effect will often be sufficient. Adapting language to institutional preferences and including notarization if requested reduces potential obstacles and makes it easier for trustees to complete transactions on behalf of the trust with minimal disclosure of private terms.
Criminal Defense
Homicide Defense
Manslaughter
Assault and Battery
Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Battery Causing Great Bodily Injury
Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence Protection Orders
Domestic Violence Restraining Order
Arson Defense
Weapons Charges
Illegal Firearm Possessions
Civil Harassment
Civil Harassment Restraining Orders
School Violence Restraining Orders
Violent Crimes Defense
Estate Planning Practice Areas