It is now common practice to set up trusts in tax havens. However, not many clients are aware of the benefits that trusts established in the UK can bring. The idea of a UK trust is particularly attractive when beneficiaries and settlors are based in Europe or other onshore countries and do not want the transfer of property to be associated with tax havens. In addition, English law (under which the trusts are formed) gives the confidence and security of the UK legal system. A trust established in the UK offers reliability and reputation to its owners.

The first trustee of a trust established under the laws of England and Wales must be a resident individual or company in the United Kingdom. In most cases the trustee is a professional and licensed UK trustee service provider.