Trusts

Trusts are powerful legal tools used to manage, protect, and pass on assets in a structured and secure way. Whether you are looking to safeguard family wealth, provide for a loved one, or maintain control over how your assets are used in the future, a well drafted trust can offer significant peace of mind.

We advise individuals, families and trustees on the creation, administration and use of trusts for a wide range of personal and financial objectives. With our depth of expertise and personal approach, we help clients make informed decisions that reflect their long-term intentions.

What is a trust?

A trust is a legal arrangement where one or more people (the trustees) manage assets on behalf of others (the beneficiaries), under terms set out by the person who created the trust (the settlor). Trusts can be established during the settlor’s lifetime or through a Will on death.

There are many types of trusts, each suited to different circumstances. Common examples include:

• Discretionary Trusts – where trustees have flexibility to decide how and when to distribute funds.
• Life interest Trusts – where a beneficiary has the right to income or use of property for life.
• Bare Trusts – where assets are held for a beneficiary who is absolutely entitled.
• Disabled person’s Trusts – which protect entitlement to benefits and provide tailored support.
• Trusts for minors – where assets are held until children reach a specified age.

We will help you choose the most appropriate trust for your needs and provide clear guidance at every step.

Why set up a trust?

Clients choose to create trusts for a variety of reasons, including:

• Asset protection: Shielding family wealth from future claims or external risks.
• Providing for vulnerable individuals: Ensuring that children, disabled beneficiaries, or those with poor financial discipline are supported safely and appropriately.
• Succession planning: Retaining control over how assets are passed down through generations.
• Blended family protection: Ensuring a surviving spouse is cared for while preserving capital for children from an earlier relationship.

Trusts provide flexibility, clarity, and security for families seeking to structure their affairs sensibly and responsibly.

Our trust services

We provide comprehensive support for all aspects of trust work. Whether you are creating a new trust, managing an existing one or acting as a trustee or beneficiary, we offer clear, confident legal advice.

Trust creation and drafting

We draft bespoke trust deeds tailored to your objectives. Our service includes:

• Helping you select the right type of trust
• Advising on trustee appointments and beneficiary classes
• Drafting all necessary documentation
• Ensuring the trust complements your wider Will or estate plan

We are happy to work alongside your financial adviser or accountant where needed to ensure a collective approach.

Ongoing trust administration

Running a trust comes with important responsibilities. Trustees are accountable for acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries and must comply with legal duties around record keeping, communication and investment management.

We support trustees by:

• Explaining their duties under trust law
• Drafting resolutions and guidance on trustee decision making
• Preparing trust accounts or annual statements
• Assisting with distributions and liaising with beneficiaries
• Helping to register and maintain compliance with the Trust Registration Service

Our role is to take the burden off trustees and ensure smooth, compliant operation of the trust over time.

Advising beneficiaries

If you are a beneficiary of a trust, we can explain your rights, review the terms of the trust and advise on concerns or disputes that may arise. Whether you are unsure of how the trust operates or wish to query a trustee decision, we are here to help.

We aim to resolve matters constructively and maintain positive family relationships wherever possible.

Our solicitors have decades of experience dealing with private client and trust work across all asset levels. We include members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), offering advanced expertise in trust law and practice.

We take the time to understand your unique circumstances and offer practical, tailored advice you can rely on. We remain available for continued support, whether you’re acting as a trustee or planning ahead for the next generation.

To learn more about creating or managing a trust, or to arrange a confidential discussion about your options, contact our expert Wills, Trusts and Probate team.