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Preparing for Your First Meeting With Us

Choosing a fiduciary is an important step toward protecting your future, your assets, and your well-being.

At Pride Trust Services, we’re here to make the process clear, simple, and reassuring.

Here’s a checklist to help you prepare for your initial consultation or engagement.

1. Gather Important Documents
(if available)

Don’t worry if you don't have everything — we can guide you through the process. Helpful documents include:

  • Trust documents, Wills, or Estate Plans
  • Powers of Attorney (Financial and/or Healthcare)
  • Advance Health Care Directive
  • HIPAA Authorization Forms
  • Conservatorship or Guardianship Court Orders (if applicable)
  • Recent bank, investment, and retirement account statements
  • Life insurance policies or beneficiary designations
  • Real estate deeds or mortgage information
  • List of debts, loans, and regular monthly bills
  • Medicare, Medi-Cal, VA, or other benefit statements
  • Business ownership documents (if applicable)

2. Create a List of Key Contacts

It's helpful to identify trusted professionals and important relationships:

  • Attorney(s)
  • CPA or Tax Preparer
  • Financial Advisor(s)
  • Primary Care Physician and Specialists
  • Care Managers or caseworkers
  • Family members or friends you wish to involve in communication (if any)

3. Think About Your Goals
and Priorities

Before your meeting, reflect on these questions:

  • What are your immediate needs? (e.g., bill pay, trust administration, healthcare decision-making)
  • What are your longer-term goals? (e.g., estate planning, succession planning, ongoing financial management)
  • Are there specific concerns about family dynamics or conflicts?
  • Do you have specific healthcare, housing, or end-of-life wishes you want protected?

4. Understand How Pride Trust Services Works

We are:

  • Licensed and Bonded (California Professional Fiduciary License)
  • Neutral, Conflict-Free, and Transparent
  • Inclusive and Culturally Competent (Certified LGBTBE®)
  • Experienced in Court-Supervised and Private Matters
  • Committed to Confidentiality and HIPAA Compliance
  • Flexible: Offering full service or limited-scope projects depending on your needs

5. Prepare Your Questions

We encourage open dialogue!
You may want to ask:

  • What services the best match my situation?
  • How are your fees structured?
  • What does the engagement process look like?
  • How will you communicate with me and my advisors?
  • How are emergencies handled?
  • What happens if my situation changes?
Business meeting with people shaking hands.

What Happens During Our First Meeting

During our initial consultation, we will:

  • Review your situation, goals, and needs
  • Explain the services that may be appropriate
  • Discuss engagement options, rates, and next steps
  • Answer all your questions — clearly and respectfully
  • Outline the documentation needed to move forward

There is no pressure and no obligation — just a focus on giving you the information you need to make the right decision.

Ready to Begin?

Protecting your future starts with one step.
Schedule your confidential consultation with Pride Trust Services today.

Schedule a Consultation