Guidance and reassurance when managing a trust
Acting as a trustee carries legal responsibility and, at times, difficult decisions. Whether you have recently taken on the role or have been managing a trust for some time, it is important to understand your duties and ensure the trust is administered correctly.
At CWC Solicitors, we support trustees and beneficiaries across Devon and Cornwall and the wider South West. We provide clear advice and practical assistance, helping you manage the trust confidently and in line with legal requirements.
Commercial
Personal
- Administration of Estates
- Adoption
- Appeals before the First Tier and Upper Tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber)
- Applications to join British or settled residents
- Applying for British citizenship
- Applying for Probate
- Buy to let
- Buying a home
- Changing Your Name
- Civil Partnerships
- cohabitation agreements
- Contentious probate
- Conveyancing
- Court of Protection
- Disputes involving children
- Divorce
- Domestic abuse
- Employment law
- Equity release
- Family Law
- Financial Remedy Proceedings
- Financial settlements
- First registration
- Human Rights applications
- Immigration law
- Indefinite Leave to Remain
- Inheritance Disputes
- Inheritance tax planning
- Landlord and tenant
- Lease extensions
- Litigation and dispute resolution
- Managing a trust
- Military Hearing Loss
- Powers of Attorney
- Prenuptial agreements
- Remortgaging
- Selling your home
- Seperation agreements
- Setting up a Trust
- Transfer of Equity
- Unmarried Couples
- Visitor visas to the UK
- Wills, trust and probate
- Work visas and sponsorship
- Writing a Will
Commercial
- Can you explain the new inheritance tax laws to me?
- What is commercial litigation?
- What do I do about tenants sub-letting?
- How many specialities does your team have?
- How long have you been practising in this field?
- What are the laws on paternity leave?
- Can you help me decide on insolvency for my company?
- Will my trademark stand in EMEA?
- How long does a merger take?
- How do I protect myself from negligence?
- I have a question on property litigation
Personal
- What time should I allow for conveyancing?
- How are assets split in a divorce?
- I think I was unfairly dismissed - can you help?
- What are your main Family Law services?
- Immigration laws have changed - help!
- My landlord has just sold the property - what are my rights?
- I've been served an eviction notice - please help!
- My neighbour is claiming my land - who is right?
- I have tinitus from army service - can I get compensation?
- Can you adivise on probate?
How we can help with managing a trust
Trustees must safeguard assets, act in the best interests of beneficiaries and comply with legal duties. This may involve overseeing investments, meeting tax obligations and maintaining accurate records.
We provide clear advice on your responsibilities, assist with administration and support you with any complex or sensitive matters. Whether you need ongoing guidance or help with a specific issue, we tailor our support and keep communication straightforward throughout.
Managing a trust involves understanding the trust deed, exercising your powers properly and acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries.
This may include overseeing investments, distributing funds, keeping accurate records and meeting tax and registration requirements. We guide you through each stage, helping ensure decisions are made carefully and in line with the terms of the trust.
Why choose
CWC Solicitors?
Trust administration requires attention to detail and a measured approach. It can also involve family dynamics or sensitive financial matters.
We offer professional, straightforward advice and ongoing reassurance. You will deal directly with an experienced solicitor who explains your responsibilities clearly and supports you in making informed decisions.
With CWC Solicitors, you can manage a trust with confidence, knowing your duties are being handled properly and with care.
Frequently asked questions
Still unsure or need something explained properly? Contact us, and we’ll guide you through it.
1. What are the main duties of a trustee?
A trustee must act in the best interests of the beneficiaries and in accordance with the terms of the trust deed. This includes safeguarding assets, making decisions responsibly and keeping accurate records.
2. Do trustees have personal liability?
Trustees can be personally liable if they act outside their powers or fail to meet their legal duties. Taking proper advice and documenting decisions carefully can help reduce this risk.
3. How often should a trust be reviewed?
Trusts should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain suitable and compliant with current law. Reviews are particularly important after significant life events or changes in financial circumstances.
4. What records must trustees keep?
Trustees are expected to maintain clear accounts showing income, expenditure and distributions. Records of decisions and correspondence should also be retained to demonstrate that duties have been carried out properly.
5. How is trust income taxed?
Trust income may be subject to income tax, and trustees are responsible for reporting and paying any tax due. The position can vary depending on the type of trust, so advice is often recommended.
6. Can a trustee be removed or replaced?
Yes, trustees can be removed or replaced in certain circumstances, either under the terms of the trust deed or by agreement. In some cases, court involvement may be required.
7. What happens if trustees disagree?
Disagreements can arise, particularly in family trusts. It is important to address issues promptly and seek legal guidance where necessary to avoid disputes escalating.
8. Do I need a solicitor to help manage a trust?
While trustees are not required to appoint a solicitor, professional advice can provide reassurance and help ensure the trust is administered correctly. This is particularly valuable where assets are significant or family relationships are complex.
Related services
Writing a Will
Our specialist solicitors will guide you through the Will writing process with compassion and clarity to ensure your wishes are fulfilled and your legacy is protected.
Powers of Attorney
Powers of Attorney allow you to give someone you trust the authority to make decisions on your behalf in relation to your finances and health, if you become unable to. We’re here to guide you through the process with compassion and clarity.
LET'S TALK
Request a callback
Our personal law solicitors are both highly experienced and empathetic. Hand over the legal matters to us to handle.