30842 Livorno Court, Westlake Village, CA 91362 | 1835 Newport Blvd A109-282, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 | 818.903.7993 | melissadalton@daltonfiduciaryservices.com

FAQ’s

General Questions

What is a fiduciary and what do they do?
A fiduciary is a trusted professional who is legally obligated to act in the best interests of their clients. Fiduciaries manage financial, legal, or personal matters for individuals who need assistance, ensuring that all decisions are made ethically, responsibly, and according to the client’s needs and wishes.
Dalton Fiduciary Services provides professional fiduciary support including estate administration, trust management, conservatorships, bill paying, asset management, and assistance with personal and financial decision-making.
People often hire a fiduciary when they need help managing financial or personal matters due to aging, illness, disability, or the complexity of an estate. A fiduciary can also help families handle responsibilities after a loved one passes away.
Estate administration is the process of managing and settling a person’s estate after they pass away. This includes organizing assets, paying debts and taxes, distributing property to beneficiaries, and ensuring that all legal responsibilities are properly handled.
A trustee is a type of fiduciary who manages assets placed in a trust according to the trust document. A fiduciary is a broader term that refers to anyone legally responsible for managing another person’s financial or personal affairs in their best interest.
Yes. A fiduciary can assist with everyday financial management such as paying bills, monitoring accounts, organizing financial records, and helping ensure that financial obligations are handled accurately and on time.
A fiduciary must follow strict legal and ethical standards. They act with transparency, keep detailed records, avoid conflicts of interest, and make decisions that prioritize the client’s wellbeing and financial security.
Professional fiduciaries are licensed, trained, and regulated. They must follow state laws and professional standards designed to protect clients and ensure responsible management of financial and personal affairs.
Yes. Fiduciaries often collaborate with attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, and family members to ensure that all aspects of estate or financial management are handled efficiently and according to the client’s wishes.
We begin with a complimentary discovery call to better understand your needs and answer any questions you may have. From there, we review your situation and any relevant documents, such as trust documents, powers of attorney, or care plans. Once the appropriate services are identified, we will walk you through our fee structure and service agreement. Our goal is to make the process clear, collaborative, and comfortable from the very beginning.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, please call 818-903-7993 or email melissadalton@daltonfiduciaryservices.com.

Have Questions?

Please feel free to contact us at any time. We are here to provide guidance, answer your questions, and help you navigate each step with professionalism and care.