s useful as a trust is, it will only be as effective as its trustee. And serving as a trustee can be complex and time consuming. There are many issues that must be considered in choosing a trustee.

Many individuals choose a family member, a friend, or business partner to serve as trustee. While there are merits to such choices - loyalty, friendship, trust - there are also certain drawbacks. A family member or friend may have only rudimentary knowledge of investments and tax laws. Their objectivity may be questioned and may be a cause of family conflict. Moreover, individuals may die, move away, or simply lose interest in their role as trustee.

Clients can avoid these problems by selecting a professional trustee. Unlike a family member or friend, a professional trustee can provide for succession and will focus its energies exclusively on its role as trustee. The professionals at Perkins Coie Fiduciary Services, PC can help plan, administer, and manage a broad range of trusts-seamlessly, effectively, and prudently. If desired, Perkins Coie will also serve as co-trustee or successor trustee. Whatever their degree of involvement, our professionals provide the continuity essential to the success of an estate plan. When Perkins Coie Fiduciary Services serves as a professional trustee, clients can be assured of our:

• Permanence and reliability
• Administrative capability
• Competence and experience
• Investment management expertise
• Objectivity