Yesterday evening, the firm hosted the first seminar of the season for the Contentious Trusts Association (“ConTrA”), welcoming more than 60 contentious trusts professionals. Attendees heard from Sinclair Gibson’s own Lizzie Barclay, Elizabeth Houghton of Wilberforce Chambers, and Laura Smith of Collas Crill Guernsey, who explored the nuanced and often complex area of secret trusts and trusts that are kept secret from one or more beneficiaries.
The seminar prompted lively discussion among both the panel and attendees as to whether these secret trust structures have a future or whether there are alternatives that might be able to achieve a similar outcome. It included consideration of the recent Court of Appeal decision in Lorenz v Caruana [2025] EWCA Civ 606 and its implications for practitioners. The event concluded with an opportunity for guests to network over drinks and canapés.
We extend our thanks to our speakers, as well as to ConTrA and its members, for contributing to such an engaging and well-attended event.
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