Can a registered sex offender and a convicted felon be appointed as a trustee for a trust in probate?

Attorney answers (3)

1. Licensed in FL

   

   Jeramie Fortenberry

   Destin Probate Attorney

   Contributor Level 12

   8

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   Answered January 21, 2013 09:02. A convicted felons would not be eligible to serve as a personal representative in Florida probate, but the trust is a separate issue from the probate proceeding . There may well be a cause of action for undue influence if the circumstances of the trust creation are suspicious. You should talk to an estate and trust litigator quickly.

   Don't take anything written here as legal advice.I am happy to offer my thoughts free of charge, and I would... moreDon't take anything written here as legal advice.I am happy to offer my thoughts free of charge, and I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you about representing you. Please be aware, though, that at this point we have not established an attorney-client relationship. An attorney client relationship requires me to agree in writing to represent you. Unless that happens, you shouldn’t take anything I say to be legal advice or make any decisions based on it. less

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2. 

   Eric Jerome GoldPro

   Calabasas Estate Planning Attorney

   Contributor Level 19

   

   EmailVisit website

   5

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   Answered January 21, 2013 09:41. I agree with Attorney Fortenberry, you need to consult with a probate litigator right away.

   ** LEGAL DISCLAIMER ** My response above is not legal advice and it does not establish an attoreny-client... more** LEGAL DISCLAIMER ** My response above is not legal advice and it does not establish an attoreny-client relationship. When responding to questions posted on Avvo, I provide a general purpose response based on California law as I am licensed in California. In reviewing my response, you are specifically advised that your use of, or reliance upon any response I provide is not advisable. I do not have all relevant background details or facts related to your issue / matter, thus I am not in a position to give you legal advice. Further, your review, use of, or reliance upon my response does not establish an attorney-client relationship between us nor does it qualify as a legal consultation for any purpose. For specific advice regarding your particular circumstances, you should consult and retain local counsel. Law Offices of Eric J. Gold www.EGoldLaw.com Telephone: 818-279-2737 Email: service@egoldlaw.con less

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3. Licensed in FL

   

   Seril Grossfeld

   Fort Lauderdale Probate Attorney

   Contributor Level 8

   3

   Lawyers agree

   Answered January 21, 2013 11:22. While there is no statutory exclusion of convicted felons from serving as a trustee, as there is with a personal representative, a trustee still is a fiduciary which is contrary to appointing a convicted felon. At some point there may be a need for a bond or even for appointment as a personal representative. As with the other attorney's I would be concerned with the fact pattern that a convicted felon was left every thing over the natural heirs and you should immediately seek out a person qualified in trust law and litigation to question the fitness of this person to be the trustee and to investigate further the circumstances of the trust and whether there were prior trusts or wills prior to this tenant appearing on the scene.

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