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Denver fiduciary litigation attorney

Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd. is a Denver-based law firm providing fiduciary litigation services for individuals and families on either side of a fiduciary litigation case throughout Colorado.

Whether you need to hold a fiduciary accountable or you’ve been accused of breaching your fiduciary duties, our experienced Denver fiduciary litigation attorney and their team are committed to providing you with sound advice and representation throughout the process of resolving your fiduciary litigation dispute.

To schedule your free consultation, contact us online or call (303) 713-9147.

What is fiduciary litigation?

Fiduciary duty exists in estate matters to ensure trust and faith for those managing the financial affairs of another. Fiduciary litigation occurs when a person or entity—like an executor of someone’s will or a trustee of a trust—has failed to act in accordance with the duties assigned to them. 

Denver fiduciary litigation attorney

For example, a fiduciary may have neglected their duty to provide accurate information about the estate or acted dishonestly when distributing assets.

The aim of a fiduciary litigation case is to seek accountability and compensation for beneficiaries who’ve been wronged. If the fiduciary has acted improperly, it may be possible to remove them from their position and force them to account for the assets in the estate.

The person or entity who has suffered a financial loss due to a breach of fiduciary duty may also be entitled to pursue damages against the fiduciary which are to be paid by the fiduciary themselves — not from the estate.

What are the different types of fiduciary litigation disputes?

Fiduciary litigation disputes can arise in a variety of situations, including:

At Colorado Estate Matters, we represent parties on either side of these cases. For those who need to hold a fiduciary accountable, we can help you seek to rectify any wrongs suffered. And if you’ve been accused of breaching your fiduciary duty, we can work with you to challenge these allegations and protect your rights.

Speak with a Denver fiduciary litigation attorney who knows what tactics the other side will employ and can work proactively to defeat them and overcome any anticipated hurdles.

How can our attorneys can help?

When you first contact us, we’ll begin with a free consultation where we’ll discuss your case and the specific facts involved. We’ll then provide you with an honest assessment of your claim and recommend a legal strategy tailored to your needs. If you decide to move forward with us, your next steps will depend on which side of the fiduciary litigation dispute you’re on.

Filing a claim against a fiduciary

If you’re seeking to file a claim against a fiduciary, we can help you gather evidence to support your claim and complete all necessary paperwork. We’ll file the appropriate documents with the proper court, represent you at all hearings, and will keep you informed every step of the way.

Our goal is to secure an outcome that’s fair for you and your family. This may be in the form of compensatory damages, which traditionally include economic damages such as reimbursement for lost assets (in the case of stolen/misused estate funds) and attorney’s fees. Non-economic damages, which cover intangible losses from the breach of duty, may also be included but are less common. 

Equitable relief is another type of remedy that is often sought in these cases. This remedy is designed to restore you to the state that they would have been in had no breach of fiduciary duty occurred. This can include removing an executor or trustee from their position, ordering an accounting of estate funds, or imposing restrictions on how a fiduciary can use the trust funds.

Defending breach of duty claims

Those who are defending a fiduciary litigation claim can also benefit from our services. After understanding the specifics of your case, we’ll sift through the evidence to develop a compelling defense and will work to have the claim dismissed. We’ll represent you at all hearings, in motion filings, and in negotiation sessions to preserve your reputation and minimize the financial impact of the legal action filed against you.

Our estate attorney in Denver can also advise on the steps you can take to prevent a fiduciary litigation claim or dispute in the future. This includes providing guidance on estate administration best practices, such as providing accurate and up-to-date records of all estate transactions, being transparent about your actions, and making sure to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries.

How do our attorneys identify a breach of fiduciary duty?

Identifying a breach of fiduciary duty can be complicated due to the nuanced nature of the legal standard. Generally speaking, a breach occurs when the fiduciary fails to act in accordance with the duties set out in the trust or estate documents.

The exact duties owed by a fiduciary depend on the type of relationship they have with the beneficiary — such as the executor of a will, trustee of a trust, or guardian/conservator — and the specific terms of engagement. Common examples of fiduciary duties include:

(H3) Proving a breach of fiduciary duty

When filing a fiduciary litigation claim, the plaintiff (the person or entity claiming to have been wronged) has the burden of proving that the defendant (the fiduciary) breached one or more of their duties. In order for the court to award damages, the plaintiff must establish that these duties were violated by a preponderance of evidence — in other words, “it’s more likely than not” that the fiduciary breached their duties.

Four elements must be proven in order to establish a breach of fiduciary duty:

  1. A fiduciary duty existed.
  2. The fiduciary duty was owed to the plaintiff.
  3. The fiduciary duty was breached.
  4. The plaintiff suffered damages and losses due to the breach.

These elements will form the foundation of our legal strategy. For example, if you’re facing a breach of duty allegation, we may work to demonstrate that the fiduciary duty in question either didn’t exist or that it wasn’t breached.

This may be done by challenging the plaintiff’s evidence and witnesses or by bringing forth our own evidence and witnesses to counter their claims.

On the other hand, if you’re filing a claim against a fiduciary, we’ll thoroughly investigate the case by gathering evidence and expert testimony that demonstrates each element of a breach of fiduciary duty.

If you’re unsure whether you have a valid breach of fiduciary duty claim, our experienced estate attorney in Denver can help you determine the strength of your case and outline the next steps. In the event that your case doesn’t meet the criteria for a breach of fiduciary duty claim, we can help you explore other possible legal remedies that may be available.

What are common breaches of fiduciary duty?

Fiduciaries can include anyone from accountants and bankers to business advisors and real estate agents. In the context of estate matters, the most common fiduciaries are executors/administrators of wills and trustees of trusts.

Breaches of fiduciary duty in these situations often involve the mismanagement or mishandling of estate funds. This can include stealing assets, misappropriation of funds, improper accounting/investment practices, failure to properly record financial activities of the estate or trust, and failure to follow the terms of a trust.

Fiduciaries in estate matters may also withhold information from beneficiaries or behave in a manner that favors some beneficiaries over others. Some breaches of fiduciary duty may also involve significantly delaying the administration of an estate or failing to take any action at all.

In addition to financial mismanagement, fiduciaries can be held accountable for other violations such as failure to properly care for a ward or engaging in conflicts of interest. In estate-related cases, conflicts of interest can arise if the executor or trustee conducts operations of the estate that primarily benefit the fiduciary instead of the beneficiaries.

Our Denver fiduciary litigation attorney is ready to help

No matter the nature of the alleged breach, the Denver fiduciary litigation attorney at Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd. can help you fight for your rights and pursue a just and fair outcome. We understand the complexities of estate matters and have extensive experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants in breach of duty claims. Our mission is to uphold your interests and provide a comprehensive approach to navigating your legal issue.

If you think that you or an estate have been wronged, we invite you to contact our office for a free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions and suggest a course of action that best suits your needs. With our insight, knowledge, and resources at your disposal, you can rest assured that your case is in capable hands. Give us a call at (303) 713-9147 to get started today.

Schedule a FREE consultation with us.

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Featured Attorney

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Justin W. Blow

Managing Partner and Attorney

Common Probate Questions

What is probate in Colorado?
Probate in Colorado is the legal process by which a deceased person’s assets are distributed and their debts are paid under court supervision.
When is probate necessary in Colorado?
Probate is typically required when a person dies with assets solely in their name, and those assets exceed a certain value, or there’s any real estate. The threshold amount changes over time, so checking the current limits is essential.
How do I start the probate process in Colorado?
To initiate probate in Colorado, you need to determine if formal probate is required, and then file an Application or a Petition (as well as the necessary ancillary documents) with the appropriate court, depending on the circumstances.
What assets are subject to probate in Colorado?
Generally, assets that are solely owned by the deceased, such as real estate, bank accounts, and personal property, are subject to probate. Jointly owned assets with rights of survivorship, assets held in a trust, and assets with designated beneficiaries typically bypass probate.
How long does the probate process take in Colorado?
The duration of probate in Colorado can vary depending on the complexity of the estate and any disputes that may arise. Often it takes a year or more to complete.
What are the costs associated with probate in Colorado?
Probate costs in Colorado can include court fees, attorney fees, personal representative fees, and other administrative expenses. These costs can vary based on the size and complexity of the estate.
Can I avoid probate in Colorado?
Yes, there are strategies to avoid probate in Colorado, such as creating a revocable living trust, using beneficiary designations on assets like life insurance policies and retirement accounts, and jointly owning property with rights of survivorship.
What are the rights and responsibilities of a personal representative in Colorado?
The personal representative (executor or administrator) is responsible for managing the estate, paying certain debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries in accordance with the law and the deceased person’s will (if one exists).
How are disputes handled in Colorado probate cases?
Disputes in Colorado probate cases can be resolved through mediation, negotiation, or litigation in court if necessary. Common disputes may involve the validity of the will, claims by creditors, or disagreements among beneficiaries.
Is estate tax a concern in Colorado probate?

Colorado does not have a state-level estate tax, but federal estate tax may apply to larger estates. It’s important to consider federal tax implications when dealing with an estate.

Is estate tax a concern in Colorado probate?

Colorado does not have a state-level estate tax, but federal estate tax may apply to larger estates. It’s important to consider federal tax implications when dealing with an estate.
 It’s essential to consult with an attorney or legal professional experienced in Colorado probate law to get accurate and up-to-date information and guidance on your probate matter.

Schedule your free consultation

Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd. is a Denver-based law firm providing fiduciary litigation services for individuals and families on either side of a fiduciary litigation case throughout Colorado.

Whether you need to hold a fiduciary accountable or you’ve been accused of breaching your fiduciary duties, our experienced Denver fiduciary litigation attorney and their team are committed to providing you with sound advice and representation throughout the process of resolving your fiduciary litigation dispute.

To schedule your free consultation, contact us online or call (303) 713-9147.

What is fiduciary litigation?

Fiduciary duty exists in estate matters to ensure trust and faith for those managing the financial affairs of another. Fiduciary litigation occurs when a person or entity—like an executor of someone’s will or a trustee of a trust—has failed to act in accordance with the duties assigned to them. 

Denver fiduciary litigation attorney

For example, a fiduciary may have neglected their duty to provide accurate information about the estate or acted dishonestly when distributing assets.

The aim of a fiduciary litigation case is to seek accountability and compensation for beneficiaries who’ve been wronged. If the fiduciary has acted improperly, it may be possible to remove them from their position and force them to account for the assets in the estate.

The person or entity who has suffered a financial loss due to a breach of fiduciary duty may also be entitled to pursue damages against the fiduciary which are to be paid by the fiduciary themselves — not from the estate.

What are the different types of fiduciary litigation disputes?

Fiduciary litigation disputes can arise in a variety of situations, including:

At Colorado Estate Matters, we represent parties on either side of these cases. For those who need to hold a fiduciary accountable, we can help you seek to rectify any wrongs suffered. And if you’ve been accused of breaching your fiduciary duty, we can work with you to challenge these allegations and protect your rights.

Speak with a Denver fiduciary litigation attorney who knows what tactics the other side will employ and can work proactively to defeat them and overcome any anticipated hurdles.

How can our attorneys can help?

When you first contact us, we’ll begin with a free consultation where we’ll discuss your case and the specific facts involved. We’ll then provide you with an honest assessment of your claim and recommend a legal strategy tailored to your needs. If you decide to move forward with us, your next steps will depend on which side of the fiduciary litigation dispute you’re on.

Filing a claim against a fiduciary

If you’re seeking to file a claim against a fiduciary, we can help you gather evidence to support your claim and complete all necessary paperwork. We’ll file the appropriate documents with the proper court, represent you at all hearings, and will keep you informed every step of the way.

Our goal is to secure an outcome that’s fair for you and your family. This may be in the form of compensatory damages, which traditionally include economic damages such as reimbursement for lost assets (in the case of stolen/misused estate funds) and attorney’s fees. Non-economic damages, which cover intangible losses from the breach of duty, may also be included but are less common. 

Equitable relief is another type of remedy that is often sought in these cases. This remedy is designed to restore you to the state that they would have been in had no breach of fiduciary duty occurred. This can include removing an executor or trustee from their position, ordering an accounting of estate funds, or imposing restrictions on how a fiduciary can use the trust funds.

Defending breach of duty claims

Those who are defending a fiduciary litigation claim can also benefit from our services. After understanding the specifics of your case, we’ll sift through the evidence to develop a compelling defense and will work to have the claim dismissed. We’ll represent you at all hearings, in motion filings, and in negotiation sessions to preserve your reputation and minimize the financial impact of the legal action filed against you.

Our estate attorney in Denver can also advise on the steps you can take to prevent a fiduciary litigation claim or dispute in the future. This includes providing guidance on estate administration best practices, such as providing accurate and up-to-date records of all estate transactions, being transparent about your actions, and making sure to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries.

How do our attorneys identify a breach of fiduciary duty?

Identifying a breach of fiduciary duty can be complicated due to the nuanced nature of the legal standard. Generally speaking, a breach occurs when the fiduciary fails to act in accordance with the duties set out in the trust or estate documents.

The exact duties owed by a fiduciary depend on the type of relationship they have with the beneficiary — such as the executor of a will, trustee of a trust, or guardian/conservator — and the specific terms of engagement. Common examples of fiduciary duties include:

(H3) Proving a breach of fiduciary duty

When filing a fiduciary litigation claim, the plaintiff (the person or entity claiming to have been wronged) has the burden of proving that the defendant (the fiduciary) breached one or more of their duties. In order for the court to award damages, the plaintiff must establish that these duties were violated by a preponderance of evidence — in other words, “it’s more likely than not” that the fiduciary breached their duties.

Four elements must be proven in order to establish a breach of fiduciary duty:

  1. A fiduciary duty existed.
  2. The fiduciary duty was owed to the plaintiff.
  3. The fiduciary duty was breached.
  4. The plaintiff suffered damages and losses due to the breach.

These elements will form the foundation of our legal strategy. For example, if you’re facing a breach of duty allegation, we may work to demonstrate that the fiduciary duty in question either didn’t exist or that it wasn’t breached.

This may be done by challenging the plaintiff’s evidence and witnesses or by bringing forth our own evidence and witnesses to counter their claims.

On the other hand, if you’re filing a claim against a fiduciary, we’ll thoroughly investigate the case by gathering evidence and expert testimony that demonstrates each element of a breach of fiduciary duty.

If you’re unsure whether you have a valid breach of fiduciary duty claim, our experienced estate attorney in Denver can help you determine the strength of your case and outline the next steps. In the event that your case doesn’t meet the criteria for a breach of fiduciary duty claim, we can help you explore other possible legal remedies that may be available.

What are common breaches of fiduciary duty?

Fiduciaries can include anyone from accountants and bankers to business advisors and real estate agents. In the context of estate matters, the most common fiduciaries are executors/administrators of wills and trustees of trusts.

Breaches of fiduciary duty in these situations often involve the mismanagement or mishandling of estate funds. This can include stealing assets, misappropriation of funds, improper accounting/investment practices, failure to properly record financial activities of the estate or trust, and failure to follow the terms of a trust.

Fiduciaries in estate matters may also withhold information from beneficiaries or behave in a manner that favors some beneficiaries over others. Some breaches of fiduciary duty may also involve significantly delaying the administration of an estate or failing to take any action at all.

In addition to financial mismanagement, fiduciaries can be held accountable for other violations such as failure to properly care for a ward or engaging in conflicts of interest. In estate-related cases, conflicts of interest can arise if the executor or trustee conducts operations of the estate that primarily benefit the fiduciary instead of the beneficiaries.

Our Denver fiduciary litigation attorney is ready to help

No matter the nature of the alleged breach, the Denver fiduciary litigation attorney at Colorado Estate Matters, Ltd. can help you fight for your rights and pursue a just and fair outcome. We understand the complexities of estate matters and have extensive experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants in breach of duty claims. Our mission is to uphold your interests and provide a comprehensive approach to navigating your legal issue.

If you think that you or an estate have been wronged, we invite you to contact our office for a free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions and suggest a course of action that best suits your needs. With our insight, knowledge, and resources at your disposal, you can rest assured that your case is in capable hands. Give us a call at (303) 713-9147 to get started today.

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