Choosing a trustee is one of those decisions that doesn’t seem complicated - until you start thinking about what’s really at stake. You’re not just picking someone to carry out a few instructions. You’re handing someone the legal authority to manage money, communicate with your beneficiaries, and make judgment calls that could impact your family for years. That requires more than good intentions. It takes competence, consistency, and character.

Trusts are often created to avoid court involvement, but that doesn’t mean they run on autopilot. The trustee is responsible for keeping everything on track. That means the wrong choice can create confusion, delays, and even legal problems. And once you’re gone, there’s no fixing it - your trustee has to be ready from day one.

What Your Trustee Actually Does

Your trustee isn’t just holding your assets - they’re managing them, making decisions, and carrying out the instructions in your trust document, often over a long period of time. That includes both day-to-day tasks and big-picture responsibilities. The role demands attention to detail, good judgment, and a firm understanding of the trust’s goals.

At a basic level, your trustee handles the logistics: making distributions to beneficiaries, paying bills from the trust, and filing any necessary tax returns. But their job doesn’t stop there. A good trustee also needs to safeguard the trust’s value - managing investments, avoiding unnecessary risk, and making decisions that align with your intentions. If a beneficiary asks for money outside the terms of the trust, your trustee has to decide whether that’s allowed, and if so, whether it’s wise.

They’re also responsible for clear and consistent communication. That includes providing updates to beneficiaries, answering questions, and keeping accurate records. If your trust is meant to last years - or decades - this ongoing communication becomes even more important.

Here’s a quick look at what your trustee may be responsible for:

• Managing and investing trust assets
• Making timely distributions to beneficiaries
• Handling trust-related expenses and taxes
• Communicating with heirs and other parties
• Keeping detailed financial records and reports
• Resolving conflicts or questions that arise

And above all, your trustee has a fiduciary duty. That means they’re legally required to act in the best interest of the beneficiaries and follow your instructions to the letter. If they fall short, they can be held personally liable. This isn’t just a title - it’s a legal and financial commitment.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Trustee

Choosing a trustee is not about who deserves the role. It’s about who can handle it. You’re looking for someone who can make smart decisions, navigate sensitive situations, and follow instructions without letting emotions or opinions get in the way. That’s a rare combination - and it’s why this decision deserves your full attention.

Start by thinking practically. Being a trustee can take time. If you’re naming someone who’s already overwhelmed with their own life - or who lives across the country and avoids paperwork like the plague - you might be setting them (and your beneficiaries) up for frustration. This job takes follow-through.

You’ll also want someone who’s reliable when no one’s watching. Your trustee will have access to funds, personal information, and decision-making authority. While they’re legally bound to act as a fiduciary, not everyone is wired to take that responsibility seriously. Choose someone who already acts with integrity in other areas of life, not someone you hope will rise to the occasion.

Here are a few traits to prioritize:

• Trustworthiness. This isn’t just about honesty—it’s about dependability. Will they take the role seriously and follow your wishes exactly as written?
• Good judgment. Your trustee might face gray areas where the right answer isn’t obvious. You want someone who knows when to pause, ask questions, or seek legal or financial advice instead of making quick calls they’ll regret.
• Neutrality. If there’s any family tension, avoid naming someone who might escalate conflict or be seen as biased. Even if they’re perfectly fair, perception matters. A neutral trustee helps avoid disputes.
• Organizational skills. From tax filings to beneficiary communications, trustees manage a lot of moving parts. Someone who’s already organized in life will have a much easier time navigating the role.
• Basic financial literacy. They don’t need to be an investment advisor, but they should understand how to track money, review statements, and ask the right questions when something seems off.

Now let’s talk about the person you shouldn’t choose. A common mistake is defaulting to the oldest child or closest sibling, even if they’re clearly not the best fit. That’s not just risky—it’s unfair to them. If someone struggles with money, deadlines, or conflict now, they won’t suddenly become a perfect trustee. And if you’re worried about hurting feelings, remember: it’s better to be thoughtful now than to leave behind a mess that damages relationships later.

You don’t have to choose just one person. Some people name co-trustees—two individuals who share the responsibility. This can work well when they bring complementary strengths or serve as checks and balances. But it can also create delays or disagreements if they don’t work well together. You’ll need to be honest about how those dynamics might play out.

Another option: name a backup. If your first choice isn’t able or willing to serve when the time comes, having a successor trustee ensures continuity.

And finally, don’t overlook professional help. If your trust is particularly complex, or you don’t have a suitable person in your circle, consider naming a corporate trustee—like a trust company or bank. Yes, they charge fees. But they also bring experience, structure, and neutrality that can be worth every penny in the right situation.

Work with an Attorney to Make the Right Call

Choosing a trustee is personal, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Legacy Law Group, Ltd., we’ve helped clients across Ohio build estate plans that make sense for their families. We’ll walk you through your options, help you understand trustee responsibilities, and give you honest advice about your choices.

Don’t leave your estate in the wrong hands. Get peace of mind by working with a trusted Ohio law firm that puts your needs first.

Contact Legacy Law Group, Ltd. today and schedule a consultation to build your estate plan with confidence.