Sarah Simpson-Thomas

While it’s true that trustees have legal duties, starting with the technical details can be like trying to decorate a cake before you’ve even baked it. There’s nothing solid for the detail to stick to — and it quickly becomes messy and overwhelming. Before diving into the legal side, it helps to step back and look at the big picture — then start building your foundation for the role.

"I’ve heard trusts aren’t much use any more?” It’s something I hear often — usually after someone has received well-intentioned advice from friends, family, or a quick Google search. The law has changed. Everything suddenly seems more complex and expensive. And trusts don't really "work" any more... right? It’s a fair question. laws have evolved and trusts do require more care and attention than they once did. But like most things in this space, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer.