Directed trusts are gaining traction for good reason. They provide a way to tailor your estate plan by dividing fiduciary duties among specialists, preserving control over investment strategies, and using favorable jurisdictions for asset protection and tax benefits. However, they also introduce complexity and additional costs. For families with substantial or unconventional assets and a desire for greater involvement in trust management, a directed trust can be an invaluable

A special needs trust (sometimes called a supplemental needs trust) preserves eligibility by owning assets for the beneficiary and spending them only in ways that supplement—rather than replace—government support. At the heart of every special needs trust is the trustee, charged with administering the trust in accordance with complex laws and regulations. The trustee’s role is both vital and challenging, requiring diligence, compassion, and an understanding of public benefit