Q: I know my father had a family trust. I doubt he ever put me on it. How do I search just in case?
I wasn't notified when my father passed on. My father's favorite 2 children are still living, no contact. He didn't want 3rd girl, my other siblings both died in their 40's, medical issues. My father said way back he had a trust & I was on it but later returned to his 'I never wanted you' comments. Some old school papers came to me from one of my kids, to pass on, but she 'knows nothing'. I only want copies of family photos. How do I find out if there was a trust, or suggestions on contact? They will never offer. (I live far from them, don't want my location known.) Sad situations like this shouldn't happen, but clearly do.
A:
I understand your concerns regarding your father's family trust and the uncertainty surrounding your inclusion in it. Trusts are indeed private documents, and it can be challenging to ascertain whether you are a beneficiary without direct communication from the trustee.
To begin your search, you may consider looking into real estate records, as trusts often involve property holdings. However, it's important to note that while these records may indicate the existence of a trust, they typically do not disclose its specific contents or beneficiaries.
If you believe that you may be a beneficiary of the trust, it is the duty of the trustee to make contact with you. You have the option of providing them with your email address as a means of communication, which would allow you to maintain your privacy regarding your location.
I empathize with the difficult and sensitive nature of your situation, and I hope that you are able to find the closure and information you seek regarding your father's trust and any potential family photos. If you have any further questions or require additional guidance, please do not hesitate to reach out.
I hope this helps,
Wes
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