According to California's code of ethics, what should a fiduciary maintain?

A fiduciary has a legal and ethical responsibility to act in the best interests of their clients. Maintaining relations with appropriate parties as necessary ensures that the fiduciary can gather the information, resources, and support needed to effectively serve the interests of their clients. This approach fosters a collaborative environment where the fiduciary can make informed decisions that align with the client’s best interests.

Engaging with relevant parties also helps in the transparency and accountability of the fiduciary’s actions, which is essential in building trust and maintaining ethical standards. Ethical practice requires balancing professional obligations and client needs, necessitating effective communication and relationships with others involved in the client's affairs, such as other professionals, advisors, or stakeholders.

A strict professional distance, while it can have its merits in certain contexts, does not facilitate the necessary collaboration that a fiduciary needs to navigate complex situations effectively. Prioritizing individual interests above client needs directly contradicts the fundamental principle of fiduciary duty, which is to prioritize the client’s interests at all times. Neutral relationships, while it may imply fairness, could hinder the fiduciary's ability to advocate effectively for their clients if they do not engage with those who can support or enhance the client's situation.