Q: Can I obtain a copy of my father's trust in Florida if I'm a beneficiary?

A: I am sorry for your loss on the passing of your father, please accept my condolences for you and your family.

As a beneficiary of a Trust, you have numerous rights and the Trustee has substantial affirmative duties and obligations. As a named beneficiary of the Trust, you are entitled to a copy of the Trust, you are entitled to accounting, inventory and so forth.

Upon the death of your dad, a notice of Trust should have been done with the county clerk of the court where he was a resident and any Will that exists should have been submitted to the clerk of the court for safe keeping as well for any future necessary probate, if any.

You may need to get an attorney to follow-up and make demands on your behalf, but minimally you should start with a certified written request for the copy of the Trust and probably an accounting.

A: In Florida, as a trust beneficiary, you have the right to request a copy of the trust under Florida Statutes §736.0813. Trustees must notify beneficiaries within 60 days of the trust becoming irrevocable and provide a copy upon request.

Since your stepmother, likely the trustee, is unresponsive, take these steps:

Send a Formal Request – Mail a certified letter requesting a copy of the trust.

Consult a Florida Attorney – If she refuses, an attorney can help enforce your rights and petition the court if necessary.

For legal assistance, consider firms like Hadeed Legal, which handles estate matters across Florida. Acting quickly ensures your rights are protected.