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Fiduciary Duties in Times of Conflict: What Happens When Beneficiaries Disagree?

When a loved one passes away, settling their estate can be emotional and complicated. Tensions often rise when beneficiaries disagree about how assets should be handled, whether an executor is fulfilling their duties, or how the will should be interpreted. In these moments of conflict, fiduciary duties play a critical role in ensuring fairness and accountability.

At Barr Law, PLLC, we represent clients in probate, trust, and fiduciary matters throughout Texas. Here is what families should know when disagreements arise among heirs and beneficiaries.

What Are Fiduciary Duties?

A fiduciary is a person entrusted to act in the best interests of another. In probate and trust administration, fiduciaries include executors or administrators, power of attorneys, and trustees.

Their duties are defined by law and include:

  • Loyalty: Acting only in the best interests of beneficiaries.
  • Care: Managing assets prudently and responsibly.
  • Transparency: Keeping accurate records and providing required accountings.
  • Impartiality: Treating beneficiaries fairly, even when conflicts arise.


These obligations are not optional. If a fiduciary violates them, beneficiaries may pursue legal remedies in court.

Why Do Beneficiaries Disagree?

Disputes are common in estate and trust administration. Some of the most frequent causes include:

  • Asset distribution disputes – beneficiaries question whether property is being divided fairly.
  • Valuation disagreements – disputes over how real estate, businesses, or investments are valued.
  • Transparency concerns – when an executor or trustee does not provide a clear accounting.
  • Perceived favoritism – beneficiaries feel one heir is treated more favorably than another.
    Will or trust interpretation – disagreements about what the deceased truly intended.


Even in families with close relationships, grief and uncertainty can amplify these conflicts.

How Fiduciary Duties Guide Resolution

In times of disagreement, fiduciaries must remain guided by their legal obligations—not personal preferences. This means:

  • Making decisions based on the law and the terms of the will or trust.
  • Ensuring no beneficiary is unfairly advantaged or disadvantaged.
  • Providing timely accountings and documentation to reduce suspicion.
  • Seeking court guidance when disputes cannot be resolved informally.


Failure to follow these duties can result in removal, damages, or other court-ordered remedies.

Legal Options When Duties Are Breached

If beneficiaries believe a fiduciary is acting improperly, they may request court intervention. Legal remedies include:

  • Formal accountings to review how funds are being managed.
  • Petitions for removal of the fiduciary.
  • Recovery of mismanaged or missing assets.
  • Litigation to resolve contested distributions or losses.


Courts in Texas take fiduciary duties seriously, and beneficiaries have rights to hold fiduciaries accountable.

Barr Law, PLLC: Protecting Beneficiaries and Fiduciaries in Conflict

When beneficiaries disagree, emotions can run high and mistakes can be costly. At Barr Law, PLLC, we help families, beneficiaries, and fiduciaries navigate these conflicts with clarity, professionalism, and strong legal advocacy.

Whether you are a beneficiary concerned about your rights or a fiduciary trying to fulfill your duties amidst disputes, we are here to guide you.

Have Any Question?

Reach out today, and let Barr Law guide you with strategic counsel and unwavering support from the outset of your legal matter.

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