Anyone been an estate conservator?

Zeke · 08-09-2010, 02:34 PM

I was asked to be one. I'm hoping there is such a thing as limited conservatorship because the full responsibility looks to be overwhelming.

This is not for a relative, just a paying job. What do you think?

Zeke · 08-09-2010, 03:01 PM

Reading further on the Net, I think this person is looking for an executor of their will. There are named beneficiaries, but the person does not want to have anything to do with the heirs. I believe the reason has to do with how they may treat the pets after death occurs (which is imminent).

My roll would be to place the animals along with the funds allocated for their future care. That and some more responsibility which is not defined as of yet.

In the meantime, I am to watch over the management of the home and assets. This is needed for a variety of reasons and the estate attorney can't do the day to day stuff. Home health care is another matter in which I have absolutely no experience, but it may become a vital issue.

stomachmonkey · 08-09-2010, 03:05 PM

Only a real pain in the ass when you are not "impartial", ie: acting at the request of a family member and dealing with family.

Sounds like someone needs "the right thing" done and it is a paying gig so win/win.

Good luck.

berettafan · 08-09-2010, 05:08 PM

Call the register of wills in the county in question.

A PR (personal rep) is a big responsibility but also rewarding. Typically row allows x% of estate as a fee.

daepp · 08:22 AM

Milt - I am unfortunately in the middle of a very similar situation. My older brother was the trustee and I was the successor trustee. My brother passed away unexpectedly and now I am the executor. The situation sux big time.

As I explained this to an el lay DA buddy of mine, he informed that that the first lesson of law school was "never, ever, be a trustee!"

Zeke · 08-10-2010, 08:00 AM

I remember now that here in CA there have been numerous cases of conservator abuse. Most seem to have been appointed by the courts, not necessarily selected by the conservatee.

I'm not looking to get that involved. I can manage some day to day stuff and oversee spending on round-the-clock care, make sure the animals are properly cared for and maintain the physical property.

However, the CA DOJ Handbook for Conservators spells out the process as a complete take over.

You know, the toughest thing in life has to be facing the end and having no one to turn to for a little help. I felt sorry for this person and did a few favors. I suppose (he/she) is desperate although there could be worse.

Anyway, the estate attorney and his client are meeting today in private to discuss how this whole deal should be played. I expect a call from one or the other later to which I can either accept or deny.

Zeke · 08-11-2010, 07:09 AM

I did get the call I was expecting. It was from the client or grantor of a trust that was either set up or modified. I don't know.

Anyway, the lawyer is now the first trustee along with his wife. No provisions have been made for the here and now AFA as any assistance is concerned. The lawyer apparently declined any interest in me as a participant.

Case closed.