The following article about Estate Planning
Is featured on New-Jersey-Lawyers.com
Written by Michael B Mangini, J.D.
Question 1: What is a trust?
Answer: A trust is a legal relationship among persons that requires: (1) a person who creates and funds the trust (trustor), (2) a person who benefits from the income and principal in the trust (beneficiary), and (3) a person who manages the property in the trust and distributes income and principal according to the terms of the trust (trustee). Think of it as a contract. The governing instrument is the writing that contains the relevant provisions.
Question 2: What is the purpose of a trust?
Answer: There are many purposes for trusts. Each trust is different. Primarily, the purpose of the trust depends on what the trustor wants to accomplish. The goals of the trustor dictate the way a trust is drafted, i.e. the drafter will write provisions designed to accomplish the trustor’s goals within the limits of the applicable law. After the trustor signs and funds the trust, the rights of the trustor and beneficiary and the duties of the trustee are determined with reference to the written provisions of the trust. Trusts may be used to protect assets, limit the use of assets, manage transfer taxes, avoid probate, benefit charities, provide for pets, and to address many other situations…….
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