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

Budget 25: Key takeaways from Autumn Budget 2025

Budget 25: Key takeaways from Autumn Budget 2025

Eight key takeaways

Linus Uhlig
clock 27 November 2025 • 4 min read
Partner Insight: Inheritance Tax, pensions and the waiting game: Conversations to have now

Partner Insight: Inheritance Tax, pensions and the waiting game: Conversations to have now

With Inheritance Tax expanding and pensions coming into scope, now is the time for advisers to engage clients. Discover how to turn uncertainty into opportunity with strategic estate planning conversations.

Nick Priest Partner and Head of Strategic Partnerships, Downing
clock 26 November 2025 • 9 min read
Budget 25: Changes to IHT on pensions rules for personal representatives

Budget 25: Changes to IHT on pensions rules for personal representatives

Will be able to instruct scheme administrators to pay

Isabel Baxter
clock 26 November 2025 • 3 min read