What we do

Trusts can be used for a variety of reasons but, more often than not, their purpose is to protect vulnerable beneficiaries. They are also commonly used for asset protection or tax planning purposes. Trusts can be set up during a person’s lifetime or through their Will. In every case, the tax implications need to be carefully considered and we provide specialist advice on all aspects.

We also manage trusts on behalf of our clients. Trusts are a specialist area because of their complexity and it is important that appropriate advice is taken at all times. We are able to advise Trustees on their obligations which they owe towards the beneficiaries and to HMRC. Trust compliance is much more involved than it once was, particularly now that the new Trust Registration requirements are in force.

We are aware that a number of family protection trusts have been set up by other firms of solicitors in the past. In many cases, those firms no longer exist and their clients need help with managing the trust going forward. We can help at every step of the way, from changing the Trustees to registering the Trust with HMRC, from preparing the annual trust return to dealing with the periodic IHT reporting.

As well as advising Trustees and ensuring that the trust is compliant, we offer a professional Trustee service which can help ensure that the Trust is being managed on a neutral and independent way in line with the wishes of whoever set it up.