John Humphreys: Placing trust in trustees

Consider continuity

clock • 4 min read

Acting as a trustee is a significant responsibility and so, while the role used to be given to family members, writes John Humphreys, it is increasingly common for clients and their advisers to appoint a professional

At a recent seminar, questions from the audience of advisers brought us on to the subject of trustees - and how and why to choose them. It is a decision that can have very long-lasting and far-reaching effects for families, and certainly one to be taken with due care and consideration. In the first place, transferring any assets into trust can be a very big decision for families and it is important not to underestimate the emotional complexity that can accompany it. Once made, equally important is the question of who should manage the trust. Acting as a trustee is a significant respon...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Tax planning

Costly procrastination: Why inheritance tax is becoming a wider UK problem

Costly procrastination: Why inheritance tax is becoming a wider UK problem

'There is a clear disconnect between awareness and follow‑through'

Hugi Clarke
clock 14 May 2026 • 4 min read
Most millionaires would pay higher taxes to support young people – research

Most millionaires would pay higher taxes to support young people – research

79% willing to pay higher taxes

Sophia Panayi
clock 13 May 2026 • 3 min read
IHT thresholds would be £270,000 higher if they rose in line with inflation

IHT thresholds would be £270,000 higher if they rose in line with inflation

Growing interest in onshore bonds

Isabel Baxter
clock 13 May 2026 • 2 min read