FAQ
Serious Inquiry Only
- +1 917-677-4905
Why an have an Asset Protection Trust?
Every state has laws in place preventing a person from disposing of his assets where there is a real or substantial risk of insolvency, or where the intention is to place the assets beyond the reach of creditors (which is also known as fraudulent conveyance). When a person does such a transfer for insufficient consideration, subsequently a creditor may apply to the courts to set aside the transfer and have the assets returned to the Settlor, at which time they become available for the creditor.
How does an Asset Protection Trust work?
In brief, the creation and operation of an Asset Protection Trust is made possible by enacting special legislation in the foreign jurisdictions where the trust is resides. The legislation provides that a transfer of property to a special trust in specific circumstances cannot be set aside by the creditors of the Settlor. Generally, the conveyance to the Asset Protection Trust is not prohibited where the Settlor was not rendered insolvent as a result of the transfer. Depending upon the jurisdiction, there may be specific requirements for registering the Asset Protection Trust, the trustee or the conveyance, etc.
Where are the jurisdictions of Asset Protection Trusts?
There are a number of countries which have enacted asset protection legislation. Among them are the Bahamas, Belize, Cayman Islands, Cook Islands, Cyprus, Gibraltar, Mauritius and Turks & Caicos Islands.
What are the features of an Asset Protection Trust?
The typical form of Asset Protection Trust is a discretionary trust (with the Settlor as one of the beneficiaries). An Asset Protection Trust often provides for the accumulation of income during the term of the trust. It is quite important that the trust be irrevocable, the assets are situated offshore, and that everyone who has control of the assets is located offshore. The Settlor should not reserve for himself the power to distribute trust capital or have the power change the governing law/trustees/location of the Asset Protection Trust.
What are some of the risks involved in an Asset Protection Trust?
As can be expected, U.S. lawmakers and the IRS do not like the idea that people can avoid payment to their creditors by simply moving their assets out of the U.S. In order to prevent this, legislation has been enacted with the intent to prevent “Insolvent” people from transferring their assets in a fraudulent manner, or with the intention or effect of defeating or delaying creditors. It is safe to say that anyone transferring, or assisting in the transfer of assets to an Asset Protection Trust when the Settlor is insolvent, will face the possibility of both civil and criminal charges. Accordingly, caution must be exercised if there is any question of insolvency. It is also recommended that an Asset Protection Trust be considered where a domestic trust would otherwise be used as part of the estate plan.
If you would like more information regarding asset protection, trusts, family limited partnerships or the subject of this article please call or email our office.
Quick & Reliable Plumbing Services
Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis. Sed non mauris vitae erat consequat auctor eu in elit. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos. Mauris in erat justo.