Usually, the Successor Trustee is a family member or close friend of the decedent and, therefore, will be experiencing grief.  Grief is a very powerful and unpredictable emotion.  Sobbing, numbness, confusion, inability to concentrate, insomnia, anger and apathy are all common symptoms of grief.  Although grieving, the Successor Trustee needs to meet with attorneys, accountants, appraisers and other family members, and he or she will need to follow instructions, learn new procedures, and make major decisions.

It is important to recognize and accept that you, the successor trustee, are grieving.  Do not have unrealistic expectations of yourself.  Your memory may not be perfect, so be sure to take notes during important telephone calls and meetings.  Your ability to concentrate may be weakened, so do not hesitate to ask questions if you do not fully understand.  You may have more trouble sleeping, so try not to schedule too many things in one day.

The estate administration process is not necessarily overwhelming, but it may seem overwhelming to you because of the grief you are experiencing.  A simple problem can seem insurmountable when you are grieving.  Therefore, it is very important that you feel comfortable with the attorney and paralegals you have chosen to help you settle the estate.  A good, professional estate administration team will guide you through the estate administration process, alleviate your fears, listen to you patiently, gently remind you, and otherwise understand that you are grieving.