TSEM6355 | Legal Background to Trusts and Estates: Trust ends: minor reaches age of majority

A settlor may leave property absolutely to a minor. The property cannot be transferred until the minor reaches the age of majority. This is because a minor is not able to give a valid receipt. Until then the property is held in a trust for the minor.

When the minor comes of age they are no longer legally incapacitated. They can give a valid receipt, and manage their own affairs. The legal term for this is sui juris. The beneficiary is entitled to the trust property. This includes any investments the trustees made out of accumulated income.

The beneficiary can require the trustees to relinquish their trusteeship. There is no point in their continuing the trust any longer.