How To Determine What State Law Applies To Your Trust

Day Pitney Trusts and Estates Partner Christine Fletcher authored an article for Forbes.com titled, “How To Determine What State Law Applies To Your Trust.” In the article, she explains that while a trust’s governing law is typically selected at creation—often based on the settlor’s residence—determining which state law applies can be complex. Fletcher outlines how factors such as the trustee’s location, place of administration, and location of trust assets may influence the analysis. She also highlights that modern, multi-state families and assets increase the likelihood of conflicts, and that options like decanting or changing trustees may allow for more favorable laws, though the outcome is highly fact-specific.

The article is part of Fletcher’s ongoing estate planning column contributions to Forbes.com. Read the full column here. Read her collection of articles here.