Torleiv was a son of the nobleman Trond Tordson Benkestok and Birgitte (probably Torleivsdotter Kjællingmule).
Torleiv is mentioned in only one known source while alive, at a sentence in Bergen in 1502.
He is here titled as "velbåren mann" ("well-born man"), which means he must have held a title higher than that of a væpner (squire).
He must also have held a royal office, as well as being born into nobility.
Torleiv was married to Adelus Eriksdotter Kruckow.