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Family foundation
Establishing family foundations, for example in Liechtenstein or other suitable countries.
What it is about
Family foundations, charitable foundations and trusts separate assets from individuals and dedicate them to a defined purpose. This keeps wealth together, protects it from third parties and ensures it is used as you intend.
We advise on choosing the right form and the right country, draft the statutes and rules and support the establishment – together with specialist lawyers and trustees.
Who it is for
- Business families wishing to keep their wealth together
- Founders with charitable aims
- High-net-worth individuals focused on asset protection
- Families with members in several countries
Scope of services
What we take care of.
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Charitable foundation
Structure and statutes for foundations that pursue a charitable purpose permanently.
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Trusts
Designing trusts under English and other law, including selecting suitable trustees.
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Asset protection
Legal separation of assets from personal risks, for example from business liability.
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Governance
Rules for beneficiaries, bodies and decisions, so the structure works even in the event of conflict.
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Ongoing administration
Administration, register obligations and reporting – including to authorities and banks.
Process
How we work.
01
Initial consultation
We clarify your goals: provision, protection, charity or succession.
02
Choice of structure
Foundation or trust, country and design – you receive a clear comparison.
03
Establishment
Statutes, bodies, transfer of assets and registration.
04
Support
We assist the foundation board and family over the years.
Frequently asked questions
Good to know.
What is the difference between a foundation and a trust?
A foundation is a separate legal entity. A trust is a legal relationship in which a trustee manages assets for beneficiaries. Which form fits depends on your goals and your residence.
Does a foundation protect against creditors?
Properly set up, it can separate assets from personal risk. However, transfers made shortly before a crisis may be challenged – which is why early planning pays off.
How is a foundation taxed?
That depends on where the foundation is based and where the founder and beneficiaries live. We coordinate the tax assessment with advisers in your country.
Related areas
W-V Law Firm LLP advises on formal company law and – where agreed – on the tax law of the United Kingdom. Tax and legal questions under German, Austrian or Swiss law are addressed together with qualified advisers from our network in your country.
Let’s talk about your plans.
We almost always reply the same day.