Introduction to Trusts

Master the essential principles of trust law for effective wealth planning, asset protection, and estate succession

Duration / CPT Hours

1 Hour

Level

Professional

Format

Recorded Video

Course Fee

HKD 500

Course Overview

This course offers a structured and practical introduction to the core concepts, structures, and uses of trusts, making it an essential foundation for professionals in financial services and compliance. It begins by clarifying the true nature of a trust: a legal arrangement, not a separate entity, built on the relationship between the Settlor, Trustee, and Beneficiaries. Learners explore the importance of the three certainties—intention, subject matter, and objects—which must be present for any trust to be valid.

The programme examines trust structures, practical applications in modern financial and estate planning environments, and how trusts support long term wealth planning, asset protection, investment activities, and employee benefit schemes.

What You'll Learn

Understanding the essential nature of trusts as legal arrangements
Identifying key parties: Settlors, Trustees, Beneficiaries, Protectors, and Enforcers
Mastering the three certainties required to establish a valid trust
Evaluating different trust structures for estate planning and asset protection
Understanding trustee duties, powers, and succession procedures
Navigating jurisdictional differences in trust law frameworks
Applying trust knowledge to real-world professional scenarios

Course Structure

1

Part 1: Trust Fundamentals

Definition of trusts, the three certainties, duration, revocability, and trust structures with holding companies.

2

Part 2: Parties to a Trust

Roles and responsibilities of Settlors, Trustees, Beneficiaries, Protectors, Enforcers, and Appointed Enquirers.

3

Part 3: Trustee Powers & Duties

Fiduciary obligations, dispositive powers, administrative authority, delegation, and succession procedures.

4

Part 4: Trust Applications

Estate planning, asset protection, business succession, investment structures, and employee benefit schemes.

Key Topics Covered

Trust Fundamentals

  • •Definition and nature of trusts
  • •Three certainties: words, subject matter, objects
  • •Trust duration and revocability
  • •Holding company structures

Trust Parties & Governance

  • •Settlor roles and reserved powers
  • •Trustee duties and succession
  • •Beneficiary identification and interests
  • •Protectors, Enforcers, and oversight

Asset Protection & Planning

  • •Probate avoidance strategies
  • •Creditor protection mechanisms
  • •Anti-forced heirship provisions
  • •Jurisdictional comparison

Practical Applications

  • •Family succession planning
  • •Business continuity structures
  • •Investment and unit trusts
  • •Employee benefit schemes

Who Should Attend

Legal and compliance professionals
Trust company officers and administrators
Private bankers and wealth advisors
Family office professionals
Financial planners and estate advisors
Professionals seeking foundational understanding of trust law

Certificate of Attendance

Upon completion, participants will complete a short multiple-choice quiz to reinforce key concepts. After passing the assessment (60% or higher), you will receive an official Certificate of Attendance issued by Legal & Compliance, which may be used to support your CPT record and professional development requirements.

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