{"id":3859,"date":"2026-10-24T02:18:50","date_gmt":"2026-10-24T02:18:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/professional-trustee-special-needs-trust-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-10-27T14:37:11","modified_gmt":"2026-10-27T14:37:11","slug":"professional-trustee-special-needs-trust-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/professional-trustee-special-needs-trust-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"Professional Trustee for a Special Needs Trust in Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-3858\" alt=\"Desk with a computer showing trust accounting software, beside settlement statements and a fiduciary duty checklist.\" src=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/desk-with-a-computer-showing-trust-accounting-software-besid-photo-1.jpg\" width=\"1408\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/desk-with-a-computer-showing-trust-accounting-software-besid-photo-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/desk-with-a-computer-showing-trust-accounting-software-besid-photo-1-300x164.jpg 300w, https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/desk-with-a-computer-showing-trust-accounting-software-besid-photo-1-768x419.jpg 768w, https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/desk-with-a-computer-showing-trust-accounting-software-besid-photo-1-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/desk-with-a-computer-showing-trust-accounting-software-besid-photo-1.jpg 1408w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 844px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Special Needs Trusts | Coral Gables, Florida<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Professional Trustee Support for Special Needs Trusts in Florida<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.769), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Trust Counsel, PL focuses on trusts and estates law in Florida, advising families, trustees and beneficiaries on special needs trusts and the trustee duties that come with them. Leslie V. Marenco is responsible for this page.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13057077126\">Schedule your free first consultation: confidential, with no obligation to continue<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/contact\/\">Schedule your free first consultation: confidential, with no obligation to continue<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Leslie V. Marenco \u00b7 Published October 23, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>A professional trustee is a person or entity who manages a special needs trust for a person with a disability. In Florida, that trustee must follow the Florida Trust Code, keep clear records, and act only in the beneficiary&#8217;s interest. This guide explains the role, the options for who can serve, and what the work involves day to day.<\/p>\n<p>Most families face this question during a hard moment. A new disability diagnosis, a guardianship case, or a relative&#8217;s illness can force a choice about who should handle the money. Understanding the role before you choose makes that decision easier.<\/p>\n<h2>What a Professional Trustee Does in a Special Needs Trust<\/h2>\n<p>A special needs trust holds money or property for a person with a disability. Its purpose is to add to that person&#8217;s life without costing needed government benefits.<\/p>\n<p>There are two main types:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Third-party special needs trusts<\/strong> are funded with a family member&#8217;s assets, such as a parent&#8217;s will or lifetime gift.<\/li>\n<li><strong>First-party special needs trusts<\/strong> are funded with the disabled person&#8217;s own assets.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Not every trust set up for a disabled person is a special needs trust. The trust&#8217;s terms and funding decide what it is, so read the document closely.<\/p>\n<p>The trustee manages the trust assets and decides when to make distributions. Those payments should supplement government benefits, not replace them. Families often choose a professional trustee when no suitable relative is available, when they want neutral administration, or when relatives disagree.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#x27;re deciding who should manage a special needs trust for someone you love, you don&#x27;t have to work it out alone. Our Coral Gables team can talk it through with you. Talk it through with Trust Counsel, PL &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13057077126\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/escritorio-con-laptop-documentos-y-nota-de-plazo-fiscal-para-photo-1.jpg\" alt=\"Laptop, documents, and a handwritten tax deadline note on a desk, representing financial management for a special needs trust.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Who Can Serve as Trustee and How the Options Compare<\/h2>\n<p>Each option has trade-offs:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>A family member<\/strong> knows the beneficiary well. But this person may lack administrative skills, face time pressure, or be pulled into family conflict.<\/li>\n<li><strong>An individual professional<\/strong>, such as an attorney, can serve personally. An attorney who serves as a trustee, or a person related to that attorney, is generally not entitled to trustee pay under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0708.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0708<\/a> if the attorney prepared or supervised the trust that appointed them, unless an exception or required disclosure applies. This rule applies to trust instruments executed by a Florida resident on or after October 1, 2020.<\/li>\n<li><strong>A corporate or professional trustee<\/strong> is a company that handles trust administration. Florida&#8217;s Office of Financial Regulation describes <a href=\"https:\/\/flofr.gov\/divisions-offices\/division-of-financial-institutions\/non-deposit-trust-companies\">non-deposit trust companies<\/a> that provide trustee and estate administration services.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Trust Counsel is a trusts and estates law firm in Coral Gables. The firm itself is not a trustee. Trust Counsel&#8217;s attorneys can serve individually as trustee or personal representative, and the firm advises and represents trustees, personal representatives and beneficiaries.<\/p>\n<p>The trust document names the first trustee and any successor. If the named person cannot serve, Florida law sets an order. For a noncharitable trust whose trusteeship must be filled, a successor named in the trust comes first, then a person chosen by unanimous agreement of the qualified beneficiaries, then a person the court appoints (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0704.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0704<\/a>); charitable trusts follow a different order.<\/p>\n<p>If the trust does not set the trustee&#8217;s pay, the trustee is entitled to compensation that is reasonable under the circumstances (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0708.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0708<\/a>).<\/p>\n<h2>Core Duties a Trustee Owns<\/h2>\n<p>A trustee must administer the trust in good faith, following its terms and the beneficiaries&#8217; interests (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0801.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0801<\/a>). The trustee must act solely in the beneficiaries&#8217; interests (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0802.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0802<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>That means reasonable care, skill and caution (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0804.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0804<\/a>). If there are two or more beneficiaries, the trustee must act impartially (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0803.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0803<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Recordkeeping matters. The trustee must also keep trust property separate from personal property (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0810.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0810<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>A trust accounting must show all cash and property transactions, including compensation paid to the trustee and the trustee&#8217;s agents (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.08135.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.08135<\/a>).<\/p>\n<h2>How the Engagement Works, Step by Step<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Intake and document review.<\/strong> Gather the trust, any amendments, the beneficiary&#8217;s benefit notices, and a list of assets.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Acceptance.<\/strong> The named trustee accepts the role. A designated trustee who does not accept within a reasonable time is deemed to have declined (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0701.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0701<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Asset review.<\/strong> Identify what the trust holds and what needs retitling. Confirm what should not pass to the beneficiary directly.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Required notices.<\/strong> Within 60 days after accepting the trust, the trustee must notify the qualified beneficiaries. The notice includes the trustee&#8217;s full name and address (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0813.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0813<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ongoing administration.<\/strong> Make distributions, keep records, and account to beneficiaries as the statute requires.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transition or dispute.<\/strong> If a successor is needed or a beneficiary raises concerns, the file moves to the next step.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>Protecting Benefits and Avoiding Common Mistakes<\/h2>\n<p>Distributions can affect a disabled person&#8217;s government benefits. A trustee should review the benefit rules before paying for anything. Each payment should be checked against the beneficiary&#8217;s specific programs.<\/p>\n<p>Common mistakes include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Mixing funds.<\/strong> Paying personal bills from trust money makes records unclear.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Skipping documentation.<\/strong> Each distribution should have a written record of its amount and purpose.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transferring assets outright.<\/strong> Handing the beneficiary cash or property without review can affect benefits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Guardianship and trust administration are different roles. A guardian has authority over the person and assets under the guardianship. A trustee has authority under the trust document. Check which role each person actually holds.<\/p>\n<h2>Why Families Bring This Work to Trust Counsel<\/h2>\n<p>Trust Counsel, PL is a trusts and estates law firm with its only office in Coral Gables, Florida. We serve clients in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Doral, Kendall, Pinecrest, Key Biscayne and Aventura.<\/p>\n<p>The firm focuses on trust litigation, probate litigation, trust administration, guardianship, and estate planning, and the firm advises and represents trustees, personal representatives and beneficiaries. Trust Counsel&#8217;s attorneys can serve individually as trustee or personal representative. Leslie V. Marenco is the responsible lawyer for this page. Tanya Vega is also a lawyer at the firm.<\/p>\n<p>The firm advises families on whether a trust was set up properly and how it should be run. When a dispute arises, it represents trustees and beneficiaries. Some matters may be referred to another lawyer or firm. If that happens, we will say so.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with Trust Counsel, PL &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13057077126\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/tax-preparation-checklist-and-income-statement-with-papercli-photo-12.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a tax preparation checklist and income statement held together with paperclips.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Special Needs Trust Questions Families Ask<\/h2>\n<p>A trustee of a special needs trust must act in the beneficiary&#8217;s interest, manage money prudently, and keep records. Here are common questions.<\/p>\n<details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Is a qualified disability trust a special needs trust?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not always. The label matters less than how the trust is funded and written, so the answer depends on the facts.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does a trustee have fiduciary duties?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. A trustee must act prudently, with reasonable care, skill and caution (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0804.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0804<\/a>).<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a beneficiary get a copy of the trust?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. On reasonable request, the trustee must give a qualified beneficiary a complete copy (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0813.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0813<\/a>).<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a trustee be removed?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A court may remove a trustee for reasons such as a serious breach of trust or persistent failure to administer the trust (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0706.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0706<\/a>).<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How long does a beneficiary have to sue a trustee?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For matters a trust disclosure document adequately disclosed, a beneficiary generally must sue within 6 months after receiving that document or a limitation notice, whichever is later (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.1008.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.1008<\/a>).<\/p><\/details>\n<p>If you&#8217;re weighing a trustee choice after a diagnosis, a guardianship filing or a change in a trustee&#8217;s health, you don&#8217;t have to decide alone. Call (305) 707-7126 or <a href=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/contact\/\">schedule online<\/a> for a free initial consultation, which is confidential and without obligation to continue.<\/p>\n\n<\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>Trust Counsel, PL, 201 Alhambra Circle, Suite 802, Coral Gables, FL 33134. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice for any individual case or situation. Viewing this website does not create an attorney-client relationship, nor is it intended to do so.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">How Trust Counsel Can Help<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trustee Representation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trust Counsel&#x27;s attorneys can serve individually as trustee. The firm advises and represents trustees, personal representatives and beneficiaries, so each role gets clear legal guidance.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trust Review and Administration<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We help families and fiduciaries review special needs trust language, funding and administration so the trust is written and managed as intended.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--check\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fiduciary Duty Guidance<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A trustee must act prudently, with reasonable care, skill and caution (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0736\/Sections\/0736.0804.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.0804<\/a>). We explain what those duties mean in practice.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Coral Gables Office<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our only office is in Coral Gables. We serve clients in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Doral, Kendall, Pinecrest, Key Biscayne and Aventura.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--phone\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free First Consultation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Call (305) 707-7126 or schedule online. The first consultation is free, confidential and comes with no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Review Before You Rely on the Trust<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A special needs trust is only as effective as its drafting and funding. Have the trust language and the trustee&#x27;s role reviewed with a Florida attorney before you rely on them.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13057077126\">Schedule your free first consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/contact\/\">Schedule your free first consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Common Questions About Special Needs Trusts<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Who Can Serve as Trustee?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A trustee can be a family member, a friend or a professional. Trust Counsel&#x27;s attorneys can serve individually as trustee, and the firm advises trustees, personal representatives and beneficiaries.<\/p><\/details><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What Does a Trustee Owe?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A trustee must manage the trust prudently and keep the beneficiary&#x27;s interests in view. Our attorneys explain these obligations and how to meet them.<\/p><\/details><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>When Should You Call?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contact us when you are planning a special needs trust, considering a trustee role, or facing a question about an existing trust. A free first consultation is available.<\/p><\/details><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Talk With Trust Counsel About a Special Needs Trust<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13057077126\">Schedule your free first consultation or call (305) 707-7126<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/contact\/\">Schedule your free first consultation or call (305) 707-7126<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/\">Trust Litigation Attorney<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/recover-property-taken-before-probate-florida\/\">Recovering Property a Relative Took Before Probate in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/revocable-trust-amendment-undue-influence-florida\/\">Revocable Trust Amendment Undue Influence Lawsuit in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/self-proved-will-challenge-florida\/\">Does a Self-Proved Will Stop a Challenge in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/sibling-trust-dispute-after-parent-dies-florida\/\">Siblings Fighting Over a Trust After a Parent Dies in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/someone-holding-will-after-death-florida\/\">Someone Is Holding the Will After a Death: What Florida Law Requires<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn what a professional trustee does in a Florida special needs trust, how trustee options compare, core duties, and how to start a consultation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":27,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[{\"hreflang\": \"en\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/professional-trustee-special-needs-trust-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/es\/abogado-litigios-fideicomisos\/fiduciario-profesional-fideicomiso-necesidades-especiales-florida\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/trust-litigation-attorney\/professional-trustee-special-needs-trust-florida\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"name\": \"Professional Trustee for a Special Needs Trust in Florida\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"about\": [{\"name\": \"Special needs trust\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, {\"name\": \"Trustee\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, {\"name\": \"Florida Trust Code\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"PeopleAudience\", \"audienceType\": \"Parents, guardians, family members, beneficiaries of special needs trusts, and professional fiduciaries evaluating trustee options in Florida\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Trust Counsel, PL\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/trustcounsel.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"areaServed\": [{\"name\": \"Florida\", \"@type\": \"State\"}, {\"name\": \"Coral Gables\", \"@type\": \"City\"}], \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is a qualified disability trust a special needs trust?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Not always. 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Stat. \u00a7 736.0706).\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long does a beneficiary have to sue a trustee?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"For matters a trust disclosure document adequately disclosed, a beneficiary generally must sue within 6 months after receiving that document or a limitation notice, whichever is later (Fla. Stat. \u00a7 736.1008).\"}}], \"description\": \"Explains what a professional trustee does in a Florida special needs trust, including third-party and first-party trusts, how trustee options compare, core fiduciary duties and recordkeeping, the steps of a trustee engagement from document review through administration, benefit-protection considerations, and when trust disputes or successor trustee appointments arise.\", \"serviceType\": \"Special needs trust trustee and trust administration\", \"termsOfService\": null, \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Leslie V. 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