A trust can provide a person with the ability to protect and manage their assets and distribute them to beneficiaries either before or after their death. When a person creates a trust, they will name a trustee who will be responsible for controlling and managing the property or assets held in the trust. These appointed agents are legally required by the Illinois Trust Code (ITC) to fulfill the duties authorized to them, such as distributing possessions or managing an estate. If disputes arise between a trust’s beneficiaries, a trustee, or any other interested persons, the parties may enter into a nonjudicial settlement agreement to modify the terms of the trust. Before any actions or alterations are enacted, it is important to speak to an experienced trust attorney.  

What Can Be Resolved By a Nonjudicial Settlement Agreement 


Under the ITC, a nonjudicial settlement agreement can address the following subjects:
– The lawfulness and clarification of the terms attached to a trust.
– Approval of a designated agent’s actions.
– The powers which can or cannot be exercised by a trustee, as long as they do not conflict with the purpose of the trust.
– Concerns relating to property held by the trust if the settlement does not conflict with the purpose of the trust.
– The act of removing or appointing a trustee, advisor, or any other delegated representative of financial or nonfinancial powers. This may also include choosing a new successor trustee. 
– The financial compensation that can be provided to a trustee.
– The transfer of a trust’s principal place of administration.
– Accountability of a designated agent for his or her actions relating to the trust.
– The actions taken to resolve disputes related to the administration of the trust, the distribution of assets, or other relevant issues.
– A modification of the terms that relate to the administration of the trust. 
– If a trust is severed into two or more trusts, determination of whether the aggregate interests of each beneficiary are equivalent to their interests before severance.
– The termination of a trust, which can only occur if a court finds that the continuance of the trust is not necessary to achieve the trust’s purpose.

Contact a Long Grove Trusts Attorney


Before the ITC is enacted on January 1st, 2020, it is critical for trust settlors, trustees, and beneficiaries to discuss any possible changes that may need to take place. In order to make sure that your rights are protected, you should work with an experienced attorney who understands the laws regarding trusts in Illinois. At Drost, Gilbert, Andrew & Apicella, our Kenilworth estate planning lawyers can provide clarification in your specific situation. To schedule a free consultation, contact our office today at 847-934-6000.  

About the Author: Attorney Jay Andrew is a founding partner of Drost, Gilbert, Andrew & Apicella, LLC. He is a graduate of the University of Dayton School of Law and has been practicing in estate planning, probate, trust administration, real estate law, residential/ commercial leasing, contracts, and civil litigation. Since 2005, Jay has been a Chair of the Mock Trial Committee for the Annual Northwest Suburban Bar Association High School Mock Trial Invitation which serves over 240 local Illinois students each year.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=4001&ChapterID=61