Daily business Q&A: Wills generally are inefficient in gifting to problematic adult children

Matt Hopkins of Lester, Loving & Davies discusses establishing trusts for gambling, disabled, minor and other children.

 
By Paula Burkes | Published: February 12, 2013    Comment on this article Leave a comment

Q: What about a trust?

A: The best decision. In a trust, you can leave a child his share but leave the control of that share with a person you know will look out for his best interests. That person — the trustee — will have possession and control of the child's inheritance, and will be able to ensure it is used for his benefit, according to your instructions. You can leave each of your children equal (or unequal) shares, but provide that their shares are to be managed differently. In a trust, the options are virtually limitless, and you can customize your estate plan to account for the varied needs of your heirs.

PAULA BURKES, BUSINESS WRITER