Trustee Responsibilities and Beneficiary Rights in Connecticut
Being named as a beneficiary of a trust can feel overwhelming. You may be waiting for distributions or trying to understand how the trustee is managing the assets. Regardless of your situation, it is important to know what trustees are required to do and how you can ensure your interests are protected.
At Harper Law, we help Connecticut families navigate every aspect of trust administration and estate planning. Our goal is to give you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
What Does a Trustee Do
A trustee is responsible for managing the assets placed in a trust and following the directions laid out in the trust document. Their role comes with serious legal obligations, which include acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries and maintaining transparency throughout the process.
Some of the trustee’s core responsibilities include:
Managing trust assets prudently. Trustees must invest and handle trust property responsibly, as required by Connecticut General Statutes section 45a 499ddd.
Acting impartially. Trustees must treat all beneficiaries fairly and without favoritism, in accordance with section 45a 499ccc.
Keeping accurate records. Trustees are required to document their actions and provide regular accounting of how assets are being managed.
Communicating clearly. Trustees should share relevant information and ensure beneficiaries are informed about the trust’s administration.
Your Rights as a Beneficiary
As a beneficiary, you have specific rights under Connecticut law that are designed to keep the trustee accountable. These include:
The right to receive distributions as outlined in the trust
The right to be informed about trust assets and their management
The right to review trust accountings and records
The right to question or challenge decisions that conflict with the trust’s terms or your interests
If a trustee fails to fulfill their duties, Connecticut law provides legal remedies to protect you.
When a Trustee Fails to Act Properly
Trustees are held to a high standard. When they fail to meet that standard, beneficiaries have options for recourse. Depending on the issue, you may be able to:
Request an accounting. You can formally demand a full accounting of trust activities, as authorized under Connecticut General Statutes section 45a 175c.
Challenge trustee actions. If a trustee makes decisions that go against the trust’s terms, you can seek court intervention to stop or reverse those actions. Section 45a 499ww allows courts to compel or prohibit certain trustee actions or even remove a trustee if necessary.
Take legal action. Disputes involving trusts can often be brought before the probate court, which now has expanded authority to handle trust-related matters.
Taking these steps ensures that the trustee remains accountable and that your interests are protected.
How Harper Law Can Help
At Harper Law, we are committed to helping beneficiaries understand their rights and hold trustees to the highest legal standards. We can assist you in reviewing trust documents, requesting information, or taking legal action when needed.
Our approach is simple: we combine knowledge of Connecticut trust law with personal attention to ensure every client feels supported and informed.
If you believe a trust is being mismanaged or have questions about your rights as a beneficiary, we are here to help.
Contact Harper Law
Visit our office in Milford
Call us at (203) 883- 1656
Schedule a consultation online
At Harper Law, we provide trusted estate and trust planning with the personal touch of a hometown practice. Let us help you ensure that your loved one’s trust is managed with care and integrity.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney for specific legal guidance.