What is a trust protectorship?

A trust protectorship is a legal arrangement in which a person is appointed to manage the trust assets and distributions of a trust. This person, called a Trust Protector or Trustee, is generally responsible for making decisions on behalf of the trust’s beneficiaries and ensuring that all of the trust’s assets are used in accordance with the trust’s terms. In Illinois, a trust protectorship is a fiduciary position, meaning that Trust Protectors must act with a high degree of care, loyalty, and prudence. This means Trust Protectors must carry out the trust’s beneficiaries’ wishes in an ethical manner that is in line with the trust’s terms. Trust Protectors are typically appointed in trusts with minors or special needs beneficiaries, since these types of beneficiaries may not have the legal capacity or understanding to make decisions on their own. In addition, the trust’s creator may appoint a Trust Protector to watch over the trust in the event that the creator becomes incapacitated or dies. In Illinois, Trust Protectors have a wide range of powers, including the authority to amend a trust, appoint and/or remove trustees, and modify trust distributions. The Trust Protector has the responsibility to make sure that the trust is managed in accordance with the trust’s terms and to ensure that the beneficiaries’ interests are protected. Trust protectorship is an important position that requires a high level of expertise and trustworthiness. In Illinois, Trust Protectors must act in the best interest of the trust and its beneficiaries and must follow the terms as written in the trust.

Related FAQs

What is a spendthrift trust?
What is a discretionary trust?
What is the role of an attorney in an estate plan?
Who can be a trustee of a trust?
What is an irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT)?
What is trust planning?
What is a living trust?
What is a trust agreement?
Can I change the terms of a trust?
What is the difference between a trustee and an executor?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding the Basics of Trusts and Estates Law - July 31, 2023
Tips for Drafting Wills under Trusts and Estates Law - August 7, 2023
Guidance for Creating a Family Trust - August 14, 2023
What is a Testamentary Trust? - August 21, 2023
How to Name an Executor of Your Estate - August 28, 2023