Who will manage your affairs if you’re no longer able to? Who will care for your children if something unexpected happens? These are questions no one wants to face—but answering them now is one of the most important gifts you can leave behind.
At Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law, we guide individuals and families across Indianapolis through these deeply personal decisions. Whether you’re setting up a trust, creating a will, or appointing a guardian for a loved one, we’ll help you plan with confidence and clarity.
Understanding the Role of a Trustee
A trustee is responsible for managing and distributing the assets in your trust. This person—or institution—must carry out your wishes, stay organized, and act in the best interest of your beneficiaries. Trustworthiness, financial responsibility, and clear communication are key.
For example, if you’re setting up a trust for a child with special needs or for multiple beneficiaries with different financial needs, the trustee’s role becomes even more complex. We help you weigh the pros and cons of choosing a family member, close friend, or professional trustee.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Guardian
Appointing a guardian for your minor children or dependent adults means choosing someone to step into your shoes—emotionally, practically, and legally. That’s no small task.
Consider who can provide a stable, loving home. Do they share your parenting values? Are they willing and able to take on this responsibility? Talk to potential guardians before making a decision, and make sure they understand what you’re asking of them.
Evaluating Potential Candidates
Choosing the right trustee or guardian often involves more than one conversation. You may want to consider:
- Their current relationship with your family
- Their time and availability
- Their emotional readiness to step into the role
- Their ability to make level-headed, informed decisions
It’s also a good idea to name backup candidates. Life changes—people move, change jobs, or experience their own challenges. We’ll help you make thoughtful, flexible choices that will stand the test of time.
Communicating Your Wishes Clearly
Once you’ve made your decisions, it’s essential to clearly document them. Your estate plan should spell out:
- Who is appointed and in what role
- What responsibilities they’ll take on
- Any preferences, restrictions, or instructions you want followed
Open conversations now can ease confusion later. We can also help you update your documents over time as your needs or relationships evolve.
Why Work with Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law?
We know these are sensitive decisions. At Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law, we take the time to listen, understand your family dynamics, and help you create a plan that truly reflects your values and goals. Our clients choose us because we offer:
Focused experience in estate and elder law: This is our core practice, and we stay up-to-date on Indiana laws that affect your planning.
Personalized guidance: No two families are the same. We tailor each plan to your situation, not a one-size-fits-all form.
A compassionate, clear approach: We explain legal options in simple terms and walk you through every step. You’ll never feel rushed or overwhelmed.
Reach Out to Our Estate Planning Attorneys Today
It’s never too early to plan—and never too late to feel secure about the future.
Contact Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law today to talk about selecting the right trustee or guardian for your estate. We’re here to support you, every step of the way.
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