The Situation:
Jean, 70, wants to leave money to her grandchildren. In her will, she leaves each of them a lump sum outright.
Protecting Grandchildren’s Inheritance: Why Trusts Matter
The Fallout:
- Some grandchildren are under 18, so the executors must make arrangements to hold their money until adulthood.
- At 18, they receive large sums with no safeguards.
- One grandchild spends recklessly, quickly losing their inheritance.
- Jean’s wish to provide long-term support is undermined.
What Would Have Happened:
Jean could have set up a discretionary trust in her will, allowing trustees to:
- Release money when grandchildren need it (e.g. education, first home).
- Protect vulnerable or younger beneficiaries.
- Ensure funds are managed wisely over time.
Why this matters:
Outright gifts can cause problems; trusts provide control, flexibility, and protection for younger generations.
At Hedges Law, we help families use trusts to protect legacies and support future generations responsibly.
