Welcoming the Second Trustee

WEEKLY EDITION • May 6, 2026

The transition from a first trustee to a second trustee represents a pivotal moment in the life of a family system shaped by trusts. While technical considerations often dominate discussions of trustee succession, the human dimensions—loss, trust, identity, and renewal—are equally consequential. This article, the second in our 2026 series from Jay Hughes and Keith Whitaker, explores the emotional and relational dynamics that accompany this transition and offers insights for practitioners supporting families through this critical phase.