While many still think of trusts as static, rigid, and inflexible, the reality is very different today. Top-tier jurisdictions have spent decades developing industry-leading trust statutes that have fundamentally changed how trusts are structured, administered, and adapted over time. In fact, when comparing trust jurisdictions across the United States, one of the most important differentiators is the availability and strength of these modern trust law tools.

Together, these laws have transformed and even revolutionized trust planning, creating opportunities for trusts to adapt to changing laws, family circumstances, and planning objectives. Each of the tools outlined below plays a distinct role in sophisticated trust planning, allowing trusts to evolve alongside the families they are designed to serve.

Directed Trusts

Directed Trusts, only available in a handful of states across the country, including South Dakota, continue to change the trust world through unbundling asset management and trust administration functions, putting control back into the hands of settlors, beneficiaries, and their advisors.

Through bifurcating liability, the Directed Trust model creates a legal framework allowing trustees and beneficiaries to work with asset managers and independent trust companies of their choosing. This structure allows different parties to serve in specialized roles, creating a more flexible and collaborative framework for trust administration and providing families and advisors with more control over investment management, distributions, and other important trust functions.

Trust Protector

The Trust Protector concept is often used in conjunction with a Directed Trust, and allows the settlor, beneficiaries, and their advisors to modify and control many important aspects of the trust and provide direction to the trustee with respect to investment management, jurisdiction, and trust distributions.

Acting as a “super trustee,” the Trust Protector enhances the control aspects of the Directed Trust by providing for direction or restraint of trustee powers. In practice, this creates a level of oversight and flexibility that traditional trust structures did not allow.

Decanting

Decanting, appropriately referred to as a “do over,” is essentially distributing assets from an irrevocable trust to a new trust with different, and presumably more desirable and flexible terms, leaving the unwanted terms in the original trust and not binding on the assets.

Many states do not have a decanting statute and not all decanting statutes are created equally. It is important to evaluate the differences among the statutes when selecting proper situs for a trust, as the strength of a jurisdiction’s decanting statute can have a significant impact on long-term flexibility.

Family Advisor

South Dakota was the first state in the nation to enact legislation creating the Family Advisor. The Family Advisor is another modern trust law tool that delivers additional control and flexibility to settlors, beneficiaries, and their advisors, particularly when used in conjunction with a Directed Trust.

Similar to a Trust Protector, but acting in a non-fiduciary capacity, the Family Advisor has the power to modify, control, and participate in many important aspects of trust administration. Often referred to as a “Trust Protector Light” because of its non-fiduciary status and limited powers, the Family Advisor can be an excellent option for settlors of trusts and beneficiaries who want family advisors, such as attorneys, CPAs, or investment advisors, to provide input on important trust matters without elevating the position to that of a fiduciary and the additional liability that role may carry.

Modification and Reformation

Modification and reformation are additional tools that progressive trust jurisdictions make available to advisors and their clients, allowing them to substantially alter the terms of an existing irrevocable trust, often without the need for court approval.

It is important to note that modification and reformation both result in keeping the original trust, whereas decanting results in the transfer of assets from an existing trust to a newly created trust. All of these tools have the potential to significantly change an irrevocable trust and provide flexibility when trust terms no longer align with a family’s circumstances or planning objectives.

Additional Modern Trust Laws

While the modern trust laws discussed above primarily focus on providing greater direction, control, and flexibility in trust administration, progressive trust jurisdictions such as South Dakota have developed additional modern trust laws that strengthen asset protection, privacy, and long-term planning opportunities. Together, these modern trust laws provide families and their advisors with a broader range of planning options than ever before.

Domestic Asset Protection Trusts (DAPTs)

Domestic Asset Protection Trusts (DAPTs), available exclusively in a handful of jurisdictions, including South Dakota, are designed to help protect assets from future third-party liability, including lawsuits and certain creditor claims, while permitting settlors (the person establishing the trust) to retain some control over the trust assets and receive discretionary benefits from the trust during their lifetime.

Because not all DAPT statutes are created equally, the jurisdiction selected can have a significant impact on the strength of the protection available. South Dakota has one of the oldest and most progressive self-settled domestic asset protection statutes in the United States, including a two-year fraudulent transfer “look-back” period that is among the shortest in the country.

Purpose Trusts

Purpose Trusts expand the traditional role of trusts beyond beneficiary-based planning. Unlike traditional trusts, which are established for the benefit of one or more beneficiaries, Purpose Trusts allow assets to be held and administered for a specific purpose.

In progressive trust law jurisdictions such as South Dakota, Purpose Trusts create opportunities to preserve family assets, support philanthropic initiatives, protect unique property, and accomplish other long-term planning objectives that may extend for generations.

Privacy and Quiet Trust Laws

Privacy and Quiet Trust Laws have become an increasingly important consideration for many families when selecting a trust jurisdiction. South Dakota has enacted comprehensive privacy statutes that help preserve confidentiality while providing families with greater control over the administration of a trust.

South Dakota is widely considered to have the strongest trust privacy and Quiet Trust statutes in the United States, providing families with enhanced privacy protections while offering greater control over how and when trust information is shared.

Collectively, these modern trust laws have transformed the trust industry by providing families and their advisors with greater planning opportunities, flexibility, and control than ever before. To learn more about any of the modern trust laws discussed, we encourage you to explore the additional resources available throughout our website and call (605) 224-9189 or contact us online with any questions.

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In this episode, David Warren – Co-Founder & Chairman of Bridgeford Trust Company – sits down with Jeff Llewellyn – Private Client Advisor and Principal at Rockwood Wealth Management – for an important conversation on Special Needs Trusts and the highly specialized planning required to support individuals with disabilities and their families.

Drawing on both his professional experience and personal journey, Jeff shares how he built a practice focused on helping families move from overwhelm to action by taking one secure step at a time. David and Jeff explore first-party and third-party Special Needs Trusts, preserving eligibility for needs-based government benefits, and the critical importance of experienced trust administration.

They also discuss selecting the right trustee and trust jurisdiction, assembling a collaborative team of experienced professionals, and the planning opportunities available under modern trust laws. Jeff closes by sharing the inspiration behind his forthcoming book and his podcast, Secured Steps, and his mission to provide families with an actionable roadmap for navigating disability planning.

You can listen to our latest episode on Bridgeford’s podcast page, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and SoundCloud—or watch it on our YouTube channel.

Bridgeford Trust Company’s Delivering Direction and Control podcast was developed to educate, challenge, and inspire listeners. As we interview experts in the trust planning arena, we keep listeners updated on developments regarding modern trust law and provide practical discussion on the powerful trust planning opportunities available to advisors around the country and the world—all in an effort to deliver far more direction and control to clients and their advisors than ever before. Check out all of our episodes here: bridgefordtrust.com/podcasts.

If you have questions on any of the topics discussed in this latest episode, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via our contact form or call us at (605) 224-9189.

The post Podcast Episode 60 – Special Needs Trusts: Turning Overwhelm into Action with Jeff Llewellyn appeared first on Bridgeford Trust Company.

  

This awards program recognizes outstanding business leaders across Orange County who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and measurable success.

Under David’s leadership, Bridgeford Trust Company has expanded its national and international presence while remaining fiercely independent and committed to delivering conflict-free sophisticated trust administration solutions, strengthening advisor relationships, and educating professionals on the opportunities available through modern trust planning. David’s nomination reflects his continued commitment to advancing the trust industry through innovative planning strategies, thought leadership, and a steadfast dedication to serving clients, families, and their advisors.

Finalists and honorees will be announced during the Orange County Executive Forum & Leadership Awards on September 9, 2026, at the Marriott Irvine Spectrum. Bridgeford congratulates all of this year’s shortlisted nominees and looks forward to celebrating the achievements of Orange County’s business community!

The post Bridgeford Co-Founder, David Warren Named an Orange County Executive Awards Nominee appeared first on Bridgeford Trust Company.

  

In the latest issue of Estate Planning, a Thomson Reuters journal, Bridgeford Trust Company Co-Founder & Chairman, David Warren and Global Marketing & Digital Media Director, Melissa Roberson offer insights into these developments in their article, “The U.S. Trust Industry Transformed: The Rise of Modern Trust Law and Independent Trust Companies.”

The article explores the framework behind directed trusts and trust protectors, the emergence of independent trust companies, and the vital importance of trust jurisdiction selection. It also discusses how increasing consolidation within the trust industry may be reintroducing many of the structural conflicts that modern trust law was intended to address.

Click here to read the full article, published in Estate Planning, a Thomson Reuters journal, and available on Westlaw and Checkpoint.

To learn more about modern trust law, the independent trust company approach, and the planning opportunities available through top-tier U.S. trust jurisdictions, reach out to us via our contact form or call us at (605) 224-9189.

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In this episode, David Warren – Co-Founder & Chairman of Bridgeford Trust Company – sits down with Jason Levey – Chief Executive Officer of Canterbury Consulting – to discuss the evolving landscape of investment consulting, family wealth planning, and independent advice.

Jason shares how Canterbury has remained independent since its founding in 1988, reflecting many of the same principles that have guided Bridgeford’s growth. The discussion explores why a conflict-free advisory model continues to matter as the financial services industry becomes increasingly consolidated.

The conversation addresses the challenges facing today’s ultra-high-net-worth families, including multi-generational wealth transfer, governance, philanthropy, and the often-overlooked “3%” of wealth planning that extends beyond investment performance. David and Jason also discuss artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, geopolitical uncertainty, and the importance of helping families navigate change while maintaining a long-term perspective.

You can listen to our latest episode on Bridgeford’s podcast page, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and SoundCloud—or watch it on our YouTube channel.

Bridgeford Trust Company’s Delivering Direction and Control podcast was developed to educate, challenge, and inspire listeners. As we interview experts in the trust planning arena, we keep listeners updated on developments regarding modern trust law and provide practical discussion on the powerful trust planning opportunities available to advisors around the country and the world—all in an effort to deliver far more direction and control to clients and their advisors than ever before. Check out all of our episodes here: bridgefordtrust.com/podcasts.

If you have questions on any of the topics discussed in this latest episode, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via our contact form or call us at (605) 224-9189.

The post Podcast Episode 59 – Investments and Independence with Jason Levey appeared first on Bridgeford Trust Company.

  

STEP LA’s International Tax & Estate Planning Forum: June 1-2

Bridgeford Trust Company is pleased to return as a featured speaker and headline sponsor of STEP LA’s 18th Annual International Tax & Estate Planning Forum taking place June 1-2, 2026, at the Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, California.

This highly anticipated forum brings together leading professionals from around the world to discuss developments in international private client planning, with presentations from nationally and internationally recognized experts, including our Co-Founder & Chairman, David Warren.

David will speak on Monday, June 1, at 3:50 p.m. alongside Joan Crain of J Crain Consulting and Susan Rounds, Head of U.S. Wealth Planning at Deutsche Bank. Their panel discussion, “Crossing Continents and Generations: Family Governance as a Tool to Preserve Family Wealth and Harmony,” will explore what is at stake in preserving wealth across generations; a timely discussion you won’t want to miss!

David and Sydney Warren, Managing Director with Bridgeford, will also be available throughout the conference.

San Francisco EPC Summer Symposium & Social: June 12

Bridgeford Trust Company is also looking forward to speaking at and sponsoring the San Francisco Estate Planning Council’s 2026 Summer Symposium & Social. This year’s program will feature an exceptional lineup of discussions examining how the estate planning landscape continues to evolve following the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

David Warren will participate in the 3:15 p.m. panel discussion, “Taxing the Non-Taxable Estates.” The panel will explore how planning conversations are increasingly shifting away from transfer taxes and toward income tax considerations as estate tax exemptions continue to rise.

David, Sydney Warren, and Doug Mikkonen, Senior Vice President & Senior Trust Officer, are looking forward to participating in this event as Bridgeford continues expanding its presence in Northern California through Bridgeford Advisors’ Bay Area office.

If you plan to attend either event and would like to arrange time to connect with our team, reach out to us at info@bridgefordtrust.com, call (605) 224-9189, or contact us through our website.

The post Bridgeford to Speak at Upcoming California Events appeared first on Bridgeford Trust Company.

  

In this episode, David Warren – Co-Founder & Chairman of Bridgeford Trust Company – is joined by Josh Bennett, Esq. – Attorney & Asset Protection Expert – for a deep dive into the evolving world of asset protection planning.

Drawing on decades of experience representing clients across the United States and internationally, Josh shares insights on domestic and offshore asset protection strategies, creditor protection planning, privacy considerations, and the growing role of Directed Trusts. The conversation also explores how top-tier jurisdictions such as South Dakota have expanded planning opportunities by offering greater flexibility, protection, and long-term planning advantages through tools such as Trust Protectors and Investment Advisors.

Throughout the episode, Josh also reflects on themes in his book, The Ultimate Guide to Asset Preservation, emphasizing that effective asset protection planning is not about secrecy or avoiding obligations, but rather implementing responsible, well-structured planning designed to protect families and preserve wealth for future generations.

You can listen to our latest episode on Bridgeford’s podcast page, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and SoundCloud—or watch it on our YouTube channel.

Bridgeford Trust Company’s Delivering Direction and Control podcast was developed to educate, challenge, and inspire listeners. As we interview experts in the trust planning arena, we keep listeners updated on developments regarding modern trust law and provide practical discussion on the powerful trust planning opportunities available to advisors around the country and the world—all in an effort to deliver far more direction and control to clients and their advisors than ever before. Check out all of our episodes here: bridgefordtrust.com/podcasts.

If you have questions on any of the topics discussed in this latest episode, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via our contact form or call us at (605) 224-9189.

The post Podcast Episode 58 – The Evolution of Asset Protection Planning with Josh Bennett appeared first on Bridgeford Trust Company.

  

In this episode, David Warren – Co-Founder & Chairman of Bridgeford Trust Company – is joined by Deirdre Wheatley-Liss, Maria Galante, and Daniel Makoski of Porzio, Bromberg & Newman, P.C., a full-service law firm with a growing footprint across the East Coast, Florida, and Puerto Rico. Together, they discuss the evolving role of trust and estate planning in a rapidly changing world and what it means to deliver practical, client-centered legal guidance today.

The conversation explores key issues facing families and business owners, including asset protection, privacy, closely held business succession, international planning, and the increasing complexity surrounding immigration and cross-border matters. They also highlight Porzio’s continued growth, including its expanding immigration capabilities, unique Puerto Rico presence, and broader approach to problem-solving across legal, compliance, government affairs, and business advisory services.

Throughout the episode, David and the Porzio team emphasize the importance of collaboration, education, and leading with solutions as clients navigate uncertainty, evolving laws, and increasingly complex planning considerations.

You can listen to our latest episode on Bridgeford’s podcast page, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and SoundCloud—or watch it on our YouTube channel.

Bridgeford Trust Company’s Delivering Direction and Control podcast was developed to educate, challenge, and inspire listeners. As we interview experts in the trust planning arena, we keep listeners updated on developments regarding modern trust law and provide practical discussion on the powerful trust planning opportunities available to advisors around the country and the world—all in an effort to deliver far more direction and control to clients and their advisors than ever before. Check out all of our episodes here: bridgefordtrust.com/podcasts.

If you have questions on any of the topics discussed in this latest episode, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via our contact form or call us at (605) 224-9189.

The post Podcast Episode 57 – A Modern Approach to Trust and Estate Planning with Porzio, Bromberg & Newman appeared first on Bridgeford Trust Company.

  

In this episode, David Warren – Co-Founder & Chairman of Bridgeford Trust Company – sits down with Andy Morgan – CEO of Affinity, a global corporate services provider supporting private wealth and asset structuring – for a conversation on global expansion, entrepreneurship, and identifying opportunity across emerging sectors.

Andy shares how Affinity has evolved from its roots in luxury asset structuring, including yachts and aircraft, into a multifaceted global services firm supporting high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and businesses across industries including e-gaming, sports, and private wealth. The discussion highlights how niche expertise, jurisdictional strategy, and a disciplined approach to growth have driven that evolution.

David and Andy also explore the importance of jurisdiction selection across industries, from trust planning to gaming regulation, and why it has a lasting impact. They draw clear parallels between their firms’ philosophies – particularly around independence, collaboration, and delivering meaningful solutions – while also discussing Affinity’s global footprint across the Isle of Man, Malta, Miami, Cyprus, and beyond, along with the strategy behind expanding into key markets in an increasingly global and evolving landscape.

You can listen to our latest episode on Bridgeford’s podcast page, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and SoundCloud—or watch it on our YouTube channel.

Bubbles by the Boats on March 26

As mentioned in this episode, Bridgeford Trust Company and Affinity are hosting a networking reception during the Palm Beach International Boat Show. If you’re in the area, join Sydney Warren – Managing Director at Bridgeford, who will be attending along with the Affinity team for an evening of connection and conversation during this exciting week in Palm Beach.

Date & Time: Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Malka Palm Beach (209 6th Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401)
Register: RSVP to info@bridgefordtrust.com.

We hope you enjoy this latest episode from our Delivering Direction and Control podcast! If you have questions on any of the topics discussed in this latest episode or our upcoming event with Affinity, don’t hesitate to reach out to us via our contact form or call us at (605) 224-9189.

The post Podcast Episode 56 – From Luxury Assets to Global Services with Andy Morgan appeared first on Bridgeford Trust Company.

  

We value the opportunity for meaningful conversations around trust planning, including the advantages of South Dakota’s modern trust laws and Bridgeford’s independent, conflict-free approach. If you’ll be attending any of the events below, we would welcome the opportunity to meet, so please reach out if you’d like to schedule a time during the events!

Women Shaping Business Today: Perspectives That Matter – March 19 (Newport Beach)

Bridgeford Trust Company, in collaboration with the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce and Trusted Advisor, is pleased to host Women Shaping Business Today: Perspectives That Matter, an evening dedicated to celebrating the impact of women in business.

The program will feature a moderated panel discussion led by Sydney Warren, Managing Director at Bridgeford, with accomplished women leaders including Lisa Neal (Partner at Rutan & Tucker), Charlene Reynolds (Airport Director at John Wayne Airport), and Annette Walker (President of City of Hope Orange County), who will share insights on leadership, career growth, and navigating today’s professional landscape. A networking reception with drinks and hors d’oeuvres will follow the discussion.

Date & Time: Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 5:30 PM
Location: Lido House – 3300 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach, CA
Register: Click here to RSVP.

STEP NY Breakfast – March 25 (New York City)

Bridgeford Trust Company, along with Trusted Advisor, Schroders Wealth Management, and Global Citizen Solutions, is co-hosting a private breakfast and discussion ahead of the STEP NY Institute.

The program will feature insights from speakers, along with time for networking with fellow attendees. David Warren, Co-Founder & Chairman, and Doug Mikkonen, Senior VP & Senior Trust Officer, will share perspectives on onshore and offshore asset protection strategies, as well as privacy considerations under U.S. trust law.

Date & Time: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: The Smith – Midtown, New York, NY
Register: Click here to RSVP

STEP NY’s International Estate Planning Institute – March 25-27 (New York City)

Bridgeford Trust Company is proud to once again sponsor STEP New York’s 21st Annual International Estate Planning Institute, taking place at the Marriott Marquis Times Square. This premier event brings together leading professionals to discuss cross-border planning developments with a U.S. component.

David Warren and Doug Mikkonen will be in attendance throughout the conference, including the pre-institute cocktail reception, and will be available at our table during the event. If you’re attending, be sure to stop by to connect with us.

Bubbles by the Boats – March 26 (West Palm Beach, FL)

Bridgeford Trust Company and Affinity, a global corporate services provider supporting private wealth and asset structuring, are hosting a networking reception during the Palm Beach International Boat Show. Sydney Warren will be attending along with the Affinity team and looks forward to welcoming guests for an evening of conversation during this exciting week in Palm Beach.

Date & Time: Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Malka Palm Beach (209 6th Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401)
Register: RSVP to info@bridgefordtrust.com.

IPCC Miami Global 2026 – April 24 (Coral Gables, FL)

Bridgeford Trust Company is pleased to sponsor the 4th edition of the International Private Client Conference (IPCC): Miami Global 2026, which is held at the Loews Coral Gables Hotel and brings together professionals focused on international private client, tax, and cross-border wealth planning.

Sydney Warren and Ozzy Martinez, Trust Officer at Bridgeford Trust Company and Managing Director of Bridgeford Global, will be at our exhibit table throughout the day. We would welcome the chance to meet if you are planning to attend.

We always value the opportunity to spend time with the advisors and professionals we work with across the country and internationally. If you’ll be attending any of these events, or will be in the area, please feel free to reach out to coordinate time to connect.

Follow Bridgeford Trust Company on LinkedIn for event updates, or reach out directly at (605) 224-9189 or via our contact form.

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