California § 16401 - Except as provided in subdivision (b), the trustee is not liable to the beneficia
Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 16401 — Except as provided in subdivision (b), the trustee is not liable to the beneficia, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16401. Except as provided in subdivision (b), the trustee is not liable to the beneficia
(a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), the trustee is not liable to the beneficiary for the acts or omissions of an agent. (b) Under any of the circumstances described in this subdivision, the trustee is liable to the beneficiary for an act or omission of an agent employed by the trustee in the administration of the trust that would be a breach of the trust if committed by the trustee: (1) Where the trustee directs the act of the agent. (2) Where the trustee delegates to the agent the authority to perform an act that the trustee is under a duty not to delegate. (3) Where the trustee does not use reasonable prudence in the selection of the agent or the retention of the agent selected by the trustee. (4) Where the trustee does not periodically review the agentâs overall performance and compliance with the terms of the delegation. (5) Where the trustee conceals the act of the agent. (6) Where the trustee neglects to take reasonable steps to compel the agent to redress the wrong in a case where the trustee knows of the agentâs acts or omissions. (c) The liability of a trustee for acts or omissions of agents that occurred before July 1, 1987, is governed by prior law and not by this section.
Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About California § 16401
What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 16401 cover?
Section 16401 ("Except as provided in subdivision (b), the trustee is not liable to the beneficia") is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite California § 16401?
A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 16401" (California). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of California law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.
How does California § 16401 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in California.