By Boyd & Boyd, P.C. · Originally published 2025-04-09 · Revised October 4, 2026
Picking the Right Successor Trustee for Your Estate Plan
Choose a successor Trustee for judgment, integrity, availability, organization, and the ability to work with professional advisors. Family relationship alone does not establish that someone is suited to the role.
Being Trusted Is the Beginning of the Job.
The person you choose may eventually have to manage property, keep records, communicate with beneficiaries, and make difficult decisions. That responsibility can arrive during illness or bereavement. Ask what the role requires before asking whom you like or whom you feel obliged to name.
Understand the Responsibilities
A Trustee administers the Trust under its terms and applicable law. Massachusetts law requires administration in good faith, consistent with the Trust's terms, purposes, and beneficiaries' interests. Investment decisions, tax work, reporting, distributions, and recordkeeping may require professional help.
Compare People With the Work
Consider availability, attention to detail, willingness to seek advice, and ability to handle family tension. A family member may understand your wishes but need administrative support. A professional or corporate Trustee may offer continuity and expertise, with fees and service requirements to consider. The right fit depends on the Trust and the family.
Plan for the Backup
A successor can decline, become unable to serve, or die before the role begins. Review your backup appointments and the process for replacing a Trustee. Where co-Trustees are considered, understand who can act, how disagreements are resolved, and whether the added coordination helps your situation.
Have the Conversation While You Can
Discuss the role with the person you intend to appoint. Tell them where documents can be found and whom to contact for assistance. Clear arrangements today can make an unfamiliar responsibility easier to approach later. Start with the Trust seminar slides, then bring your questions to Boyd & Boyd, P.C.
Sources and related reading
Make Your Next Question a Better One.
Get the August 2025 A Walk Through Your Trust seminar slides. Use them to prepare questions; current advice depends on your circumstances.
General educational information. State laws and tax rules vary. Representation requires a separate engagement with Boyd & Boyd, P.C.
