Trusts in Wills: When They May Be Appropriate

Why trust provisions come up

Trusts can be used in wills to control how assets are held and distributed, rather than passing everything outright immediately.

This is often relevant where there are:

• young beneficiaries
• vulnerable beneficiaries
• blended family dynamics
• business or higher-value assets
• specific long-term intentions

Not every will needs trusts

For many straightforward estates, a simpler structure is suitable. Trust drafting should be deliberate and based on actual needs, not added by default.

Typical goals of will trusts

• Protecting children until a chosen age or event
• Giving flexibility over timing of distributions
• Ring-fencing assets in more complex family structures
• Supporting clearer governance for executors and trustees

Why precision matters

Trust clauses should be clear on powers, decision-makers, and intended outcomes. Ambiguity can create avoidable disputes and administration delays.

Trusts and the wider plan

Where trusts are needed, they are best considered alongside:

• executor and trustee appointments
• letter of wishes drafting
• records for assets and beneficiaries

Next steps

• Start intake and flag complexity early: /intake
• Product overview: Trust Wills
• Family scenario guide: Wills for Blended Families