Living Trusts: More Control, Less Hassle
Most people assume estate planning starts and ends with a will—but that’s not always the most effective or flexible approach. For many families, a living trust offers more control, greater privacy, and fewer legal complications when it matters most.
At Meridian Legal Services, we help individuals and families across the UK decide whether a living trust is the right move. We offer tailored, jargon-free guidance—and we’re here to make the process simple and stress-free.
Want to know if a living trust is right for you? Contact Meridian Legal Services today for a confidential consultation.
What Is a Living Trust?
A living trust (also known as a lifetime trust or settlor-interested trust) is a legal arrangement where you transfer assets—like property, savings, or investments—into a trust during your lifetime.
You remain in control of the trust or appoint others (trustees) to manage it, with instructions on how and when assets should be distributed.
The major benefit? Assets in a living trust avoid probate, giving your family quicker access without legal delays or extra costs.
Why Set Up a Living Trust?
Avoid Probate
Assets held in the trust don’t go through probate—saving time, money, and stress for your loved ones.
Keep Things Private
Unlike wills, trusts are not public documents. Your finances and family arrangements remain confidential.
Protect Beneficiaries
Living trusts allow you to:
- Delay inheritances until children reach a certain age
- Provide gradual access to funds
- Safeguard vulnerable or financially inexperienced beneficiaries
Stay Flexible
If you create a revocable trust, you can change or cancel it anytime while you still have mental capacity.
Is a Living Trust Right for You?
Living trusts are especially helpful if you:
- Own property or multiple assets
- Have children from previous relationships
- Care for someone with special needs
- Want to avoid family disputes or delays
- Are a business owner or planning for succession
- Simply want more control over how your estate is managed
Not sure if you fit that description? That’s exactly what we’re here for. Talk to Meridian Legal Services and get tailored advice based on your circumstances.
Living Trusts vs Wills: What’s the Difference?
FeatureLiving TrustWill
Takes effect During life & after death After death only
Probate needed? No Yes
Public or private? Private Public
Useful for vulnerable beneficiaries? Yes Less flexibility
Can you change it? Yes (revocable) Yes, until death
Many people choose to use both—a living trust for major assets and a will for everything else.
Living Trusts vs Wills: What’s the Difference?
Many people choose to use both—a living trust for major assets and a will for everything else.
| Feature | Living Trust | Will |
|---|---|---|
| Takes effect | During life & after death | After death only |
| Probate needed? | No | Yes |
| Public or private? | Private | Public |
| Useful for vulnerable beneficiaries? | Yes | Less flexibility |
| Can you change it? | Yes (revocable) | Yes, until death |
How Meridian Legal Services Can Help
Setting up a trust correctly requires careful planning and legal expertise. At Meridian Legal Services, we guide you through the entire process:
- Initial consultation – We discuss your goals and explain your options clearly
- Trust drafting – We prepare the legal documents tailored to your needs
- Asset protection guidance – We help you structure your trust for maximum benefit
- Coordination with your will and estate plan – To ensure all elements work together
- Ongoing support – We're here if your wishes or situation change
We explain everything in plain English—no jargon, no confusion.
Take Control of Your Estate Plan
Planning ahead gives you peace of mind—and spares your family avoidable stress.
Contact Meridian Legal Services today to speak with one of our estate planning experts. Whether you’re ready to create a trust or just exploring your options, we’ll help you make confident, informed decisions.
Let’s protect your legacy—your way.