đ„đ„đ„Why would someone say this , Cause you can't represent a trust...
1. In court, you can only represent yourself pro se In the U.S., the general rule is: - A natural person can speak for themselves in court (pro se). - Separate legal entities (corporations, LLCs, and often trusts) must be represented by a licensed attorney in most courts. A trust is treated as a separate âpersonâ/entity for procedure. So: - You (Norwood) can represent Norwood. - But you, as a non-lawyer, usually cannot show up in court and ârepresentâ The XYZ Trust as if youâre its lawyer. If you try to file pleadings, argue motions, or appear in court on behalf of the trust, many judges will say youâre engaging in unauthorized practice of law. Thatâs the core behind: âYou canât represent a trust.â Theyâre talking about courtroom/legal representation, not everyday administration. 2. Trustee vs. attorney: different hats Even if youâre the trustee, that doesnât automatically give you the right to be the trustâs lawyer. - Trustee = manages the trust, signs contracts, opens bank accounts, executes documents. - Lawyer = licensed to practice law, draft pleadings, represent entities in court. Most jurisdictions treat a trustee who goes into court âfor the trustâ as representing the interests of others (beneficiaries). Thatâs legal representation, which requires a law license. So a clerk, judge, or opposing attorney might say: - âYou canât represent a trust, youâre not an attorney.â - Translation: You, as a non-lawyer, cannot appear in this court as counsel for that entity. 3. You can still act for the trust outside of court Donât confuse ârepresent in courtâ with âact on behalf of the trustâ in life. You can, if properly appointed: - Sign contracts as âTrustee of [Trust Name]â. - Open bank/brokerage accounts. - Execute deeds, notes, bills of exchange, etc. - Send letters, notices, affidavits in your fiduciary capacity. - Administer assets and make decisions under the trust instrument. Thatâs not âpracticing lawâ â thatâs performing your fiduciary duties.