Best Trusts Lawyers in Lapu-Lapu City
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
List of the best lawyers in Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines
Philippines Trusts Legal Questions answered by Lawyers
Browse our 2 legal questions about Trusts in Philippines and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
- Who has the legal right to own a property: the one with the Tax Dec with the name of the deceased father (still not transferred by other claimants for 20 years) or the one with the copy of Deed of Absolute Sale of the property showing that it was sold by
- Based on the facts you provided, here’s a legal analysis comparing ownership rights between:A. The Heirs of the Deceased Father (name on the Tax Declaration),versusB. Your Side (Buyers who possess a Deed of Absolute Sale, paid real property taxes, planted trees, and occupied the land for over 20 years)Legal Principles to Consider1. Tax Declaration (Tax Dec)A Tax Declaration is not proof of ownership; it’s evidence of possession or a claim of ownership.The fact that it still bears the name of the deceased father means no formal transfer of title or succession has occurred.Tax Decs can support claims of ownership, but they don't override a valid deed or actual possession.2. Deed of Absolute Sale (DOAS)A DOAS is proof of a sale and an agreement to transfer ownership.If it is:Validly executed (signed, notarized, by someone with capacity),Relating to the same land in question,And if you have taken possession and paid taxes,then it is strong legal evidence of ownership, even if not yet registered.3. Payment of Real Property TaxesWhile not conclusive proof of ownership, consistent payment supports your claim of open and notorious possession and recognition by the State (LGU).4. Open, Continuous, Exclusive, and Notorious Possession (OCEN)Under the doctrine of extraordinary acquisitive prescription (under civil law, particularly in the Philippines Civil Code), if you have:Possessed the land publicly, peacefully, and in the concept of an owner,Continuously for over 30 years without need of title,then you may acquire ownership by prescription, even if the property is not yet titled.In ordinary prescription, 10 years with just title (like a DOAS) and good faith can suffice.5. Succession LawThe deceased’s heirs are co-owners by succession, but if they’ve taken no steps for 20 years to assert their rights, and the buyers have acted as owners, this may weaken their claim, especially under laches (failure to assert rights timely).Conclusion: Who Has the Stronger Legal Right?You (Buyers / Possessors) have the stronger legal claim if:The Deed of Absolute Sale is valid, showing sale from the deceased to your father.You have paid property taxes continuously.You’ve been in continuous, peaceful, public possession in the concept of an owner for more than 20 years.The other side never asserted their rights or disrupted your possession.If the property is unregistered, your case is even stronger, especially if prescription applies.What You Can Doverify:Validity of the DOAS.Whether prescription has been completed (based on exact years and possession facts).Apply for judicial confirmation of ownership (if Philippine jurisdiction), or start reconstitution and registration process under your name.Gather supporting proof:Tax receipts.Witness statements.Tree planting records or photos.Boundary surveys showing occupation.If you let us know which country this is (e.g., Philippines, Latin America, etc.), we can cite the specific laws that apply to your case.
- Who will be the legal heir upon death of both parents
- According the Greek Civil Code, there are two systems of succession, testamentary and intestate succession. Intestate succession includes only in bolld relatives, which means that without a last will legally validated sons in law cannot become heirs after their father in law passes away.
About Trusts Law in Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines
Trusts are legal arrangements that allow an individual, known as the grantor, to transfer their assets to a trustee. The trustee manages these assets for the benefit of beneficiaries specified by the grantor. In Lapu-Lapu City, as in the rest of the Philippines, trusts are utilized for various purposes, including asset management, wealth preservation, estate planning, and minimizing potential tax obligations. Philippine law recognizes different types of trusts, and while there is no specific Trusts Act in the country, applicable provisions can be found in the Civil Code and other related legislation.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
There are several reasons why individuals in Lapu-Lapu City may need a lawyer when dealing with trusts:
- Setting Up a Trust: Establishing a trust involves complex legal documentation and compliance with Philippine laws. A lawyer can ensure all legal requirements are correctly met.
- Managing a Trust: If you are appointed as a trustee, understanding your legal responsibilities is crucial. A lawyer can provide guidance to avoid legal pitfalls.
- Dispute Resolution: Conflicts can arise among beneficiaries or between trustees and beneficiaries. Legal advice may be necessary to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively.
- Estate Planning: Trusts are often used in estate planning to ensure a smooth transfer of assets to heirs. A lawyer can advise on structuring your estate to best meet your goals.
- Tax Implications: Trusts can have significant tax consequences. Legal assistance is crucial to understanding and planning for these implications.
Local Laws Overview
In Lapu-Lapu City, the laws governing trusts are primarily found within the Civil Code of the Philippines. The Civil Code outlines the creation, administration, and termination of trusts. It is important to note that while the Code provides a framework, specific cases and practical applications may vary. Legal advice is often necessary to navigate these complexities. Additionally, trusts may intersect with other local ordinances or national legislation, especially in areas like taxation and property rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a trust?
A trust is a legal arrangement where one party, known as the trustee, holds and manages property or assets for the benefit of another party, the beneficiary, as directed by the grantor.
How do I establish a trust in Lapu-Lapu City?
Establishing a trust involves drafting a trust document, appointing a trustee, and transferring the assets into the trust. It is advisable to seek legal assistance to ensure the process complies with all legal requirements.
Can anyone be a trustee?
Yes, anyone who is capable of managing the trust may be appointed as a trustee. This person should be trustworthy and competent in handling financial matters. In some cases, a legal entity or bank may serve as a trustee.
What types of trusts are available in the Philippines?
Common types of trusts in the Philippines include revocable, irrevocable, living, and testamentary trusts. Each type serves different purposes and has distinct legal considerations.
What is the role of a trustee?
The trustee is responsible for managing the trust assets in accordance with the grantor's wishes, as documented in the trust agreement. This includes administering and distributing the assets to the beneficiaries.
How are trusts taxed in the Philippines?
The tax treatment of trusts can be complex and depends on various factors such as the type of trust, the nature of the assets, and the distribution of income. Consulting a tax professional or lawyer is advisable.
Can a trust be changed or revoked?
This depends on whether the trust is revocable or irrevocable. A revocable trust can be modified or terminated by the grantor, while an irrevocable trust generally cannot be changed without the consent of the beneficiaries.
What happens if a trustee fails in their duties?
If a trustee fails to act in accordance with the trust agreement, they may be held legally accountable and could be removed or replaced by a court order. Legal action can be taken by the beneficiaries or other interested parties.
How can I resolve a trust dispute?
Resolving trust disputes often requires legal intervention. Mediation or arbitration may be effective, but if these fail, litigation in court might be necessary.
Who should be my beneficiaries?
Beneficiaries can be anyone you wish to benefit from the trust, such as family members, charities, or organizations. You can specify individual entitlements and conditions as per your intentions.
Additional Resources
For those seeking further information or legal assistance regarding trusts in Lapu-Lapu City, consider the following resources:
- Local law firms specializing in estate planning and trusts.
- The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) for lawyer referrals.
- The Land Registration Authority for property-related trust concerns.
- Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission for corporate and business trusts.
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance regarding trusts, consider contacting a reputable attorney specializing in estate planning and trusts. Gather any relevant documents and clearly outline your objectives and concerns before your consultation to ensure a productive meeting. Utilizing the resources provided above, you can also conduct initial research to familiarize yourself with the basic concepts and requirements involving trusts in the Philippines.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.