North Dakota Century Code Title 59. Trusts § 59-15-04. Vacancy in trusteeship--Appointment of successor

1. A vacancy in a trusteeship occurs if a person designated as trustee declines the trusteeship, a person designated as trustee cannot be identified, cannot be located, or does not exist, a trustee resigns, a trustee is disqualified or removed, a trustee dies, or a guardian or conservator is appointed for an individual serving as trustee.

2. If one or more cotrustees remain in office, a vacancy in a trusteeship need not be filled. A vacancy in a trusteeship must be filled if the trust has no remaining trustee.

3. A vacancy in a trusteeship of a noncharitable trust which is required to be filled must be filled in the following order of priority. First, the vacancy must be filled by a person designated in the terms of the trust or appointed under the terms of the trust to act as successor trustee. Second, the vacancy must be filled by a person appointed by unanimous agreement of the qualified beneficiaries. Finally, the vacancy must be filled by a person appointed by the court.

4. A vacancy in a trusteeship of a charitable trust which is required to be filled must be filled in the following order of priority. First, the vacancy must be filled by a person designated in the terms of the trust or appointed under the terms of the trust to act as successor trustee. Second, the vacancy must be filled by a person selected by the charitable organizations expressly designated to receive distributions under the terms of the trust if the attorney general concurs in the selection. Finally, the vacancy must be filled by a person appointed by the court.

5. Whether or not a vacancy in a trusteeship exists or is required to be filled, the court may appoint an additional trustee or special fiduciary whenever the court considers the appointment necessary for the administration of the trust.