The Complete Book of Trusts, 3rd Edition

Worth the investment if you are trying to protect your family's estate - we have a copy and it's now dog earred and well read.

The book provides sufficient detail of a number of trusts and does so in a very readable manner. That is, the text is clear and well written. Although the book is an overview of trusts, it does a good job of providing sufficient detail of each trust discussed so as to be useful rather than being just a recognition that certain trusts exist. For instance, it details differences between simple and complex trusts without getting overly technical or legal, but provides enough information so one could make such a determination. The book discusses transferring assets to a trust, Grantor's and Fiduciary's rights and powers, Distributions, Tax Consequences of Trusts, explanations of different types of Trusts, and Trust termination.

For the neophyte there is no better place to start than here. Trusts are explained in simple, everyday language and there is just enough detail to make you appreciate what a vastly complicated field this is---and thus to seek qualified professional help. But this book is an essential first step for the beginner so that they can have an informed discussion with their advisor(s), and will help them avoid falling into the trap of buying some oversimplified online product or fall victim to an unscrupulous scheme that will leave your affairs in worse shape than when you started. Excellent book, and a must for anyone serious about customizing an estate plan that fits their needs.

This book had little by way of practical information. It had a lot of general information and continually emphasized the need to refer to a lawyer. This book is not for the do-it-yourself 'ers.

I am a professional advisor and I found this work to be fantastic. Very easy to understand.