Can a trustee close a trust?

Trustees can petition the courts to close a trust or request the settlor cancels or changes the trust, according to the Superior Court of California. If the settlor has died, the trustee is responsible for carrying out the terms of the trust unless the court releases the trustee.

If the settlor and all beneficiaries consent, changes can be made to the trustee designation or terms of the trust, according to the Superior Court of California. However, if all parties do not consent, a petition must be presented to the court to end the trust. If circumstances change, weakening the trust, the court can also end the trust and the trustee's appointment before or after the settlor's death.