What is the name of your state? CA
Before my mother passed away she set up a family trust with her and I listed as first trustees. After she died, I found a copy of the trust (unsigned), but no original. I didn't take any action, as I believed there to be nothing in it. I have come to find out there is property in it I would like to sell. I called the lawyer who set up the trust, who told me at that time they didn't keep copies of the trust (this was at least 10 years ago), they had no records, and I would have to pay them at least $2500 to petition the court to say that the copy is as good as the original (she said if the copy was in a white notebook, which it was, the trust was definitely signed). I called another lawyer who told me all she has to do is write a letter for me; he has done it for clients of his. Unfortunately, he can't do it for me; I have to go to the original lawyer. At least one other lawyer has also refused to help me and told me to go back to the original attorney. I don't think she will agree to just writing me a letter.
At this point, I really don't know how to resolve this other than paying the original lawyer. Can I just dissolve the trust? I do have a POA (not registered, but notorized) for my mother. I would appreciate any and all suggestions. Thanks.
Before my mother passed away she set up a family trust with her and I listed as first trustees. After she died, I found a copy of the trust (unsigned), but no original. I didn't take any action, as I believed there to be nothing in it. I have come to find out there is property in it I would like to sell. I called the lawyer who set up the trust, who told me at that time they didn't keep copies of the trust (this was at least 10 years ago), they had no records, and I would have to pay them at least $2500 to petition the court to say that the copy is as good as the original (she said if the copy was in a white notebook, which it was, the trust was definitely signed). I called another lawyer who told me all she has to do is write a letter for me; he has done it for clients of his. Unfortunately, he can't do it for me; I have to go to the original lawyer. At least one other lawyer has also refused to help me and told me to go back to the original attorney. I don't think she will agree to just writing me a letter.
At this point, I really don't know how to resolve this other than paying the original lawyer. Can I just dissolve the trust? I do have a POA (not registered, but notorized) for my mother. I would appreciate any and all suggestions. Thanks.