Trusts

Structure with purpose. Stewardship with care.
We advise individuals, families, trustees, beneficiaries, and professional advisers on all aspects of UK and international trusts – from creation and administration to amendment, restructuring and termination. Our work helps protect wealth, preserve family harmony and ensure that each trust continues to meet its purpose across generations.

As an independent London firm with deep experience in private capital and cross-border estates, we combine technical precision with sound judgement and discretion. Whether establishing a new trust, administering an existing structure or resolving disputes, we distil clarity from complexity and bring confidence to decision-making. The guidance we provide gives you the assurance to act with foresight. 

 

A joined-up view 

 

Trusts often sit at the intersection of family, business and law. We take a holistic approach – advising on the legal, tax and practical implications of trust arrangements and working seamlessly with other professional advisers to ensure consistency across jurisdictions. 

 

Our advice covers: 

 

  • Creation and administration of UK and international trusts 
  • Variation, restructuring and termination of trusts 
  • Acting as or advising trustees and protectors 
  • Family Investment Companies and alternative wealth structures 
  • Cross-border and tax-efficient planning 
  • Disputes concerning trustees, beneficiaries or third parties 

 

Many of the trusts we advise on hold complex or international assets – from operating businesses to property, art and investments – requiring balanced advice that safeguards both value and relationships. 

 

Quiet strength. Lasting confidence. 

 

We understand that trust issues can be sensitive and, at times, contentious. Disagreements over control, succession or distribution can challenge even the closest of families. Our approach is pragmatic and calm – resolving disputes wherever possible through early intervention, negotiation or mediation, while always protecting our clients’ interests and privacy. 

 

When litigation becomes unavoidable, our experienced disputes team acts with skill and discretion in the UK and overseas, ensuring matters are handled efficiently and with minimal disruption. 

 

As a certified B Corporation, we are committed to integrity and responsibility in every aspect of our work – helping clients protect and manage wealth in a way that is both effective and ethical. 

 

Three-dimensional advice 

 

Drawing on more than a century of experience, we bring together expertise in trust law, tax, family and dispute resolution to deliver joined-up, long-term solutions. We look beyond immediate issues to anticipate future risks and opportunities – ensuring your trust arrangements remain robust, compliant and aligned with your intentions. 

 

Collaborative in approach. Committed in purpose. Connected where it matters most. 

Awards
Contact our team
At Edwin Coe LLP, Joanna Osborne spearheads a ‘flexible and focused team which is committed to the client and determined to succeed’. It is an agile group, which frequently handles high-value contentious trusts and probate litigation.
- The Legal 500 UK 2024
Edwin Coe provides a personal service for difficult times such as the tax enquiry they have just skilfully guided me through. Always there when you need an answer.
- John, Private Client
Approachable, reputable, personal & personable, professional & knowledgeable.
- The Legal 500 UK 2023
David Goepel is excellent technically, super with clients and a calm and effective negotiator.
- The Legal 500 UK 2022
The lawyers think outside the box rather than simply reciting the law back to you. Alison Broadberry and David Goepel – they give thoughtful, insightful answers to questions rather than generic answers.
- The Legal 500 UK 2022