Best Trusts Lawyers in Manila

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LORD LAW OFFICE
Manila, Philippines

Founded in 2012
20 people in their team
English
Tagalog
ABOUT OUR LAW FIRMFounded in 2012, LORD LAW emerged as a result of skillfully merging our expertise and experience to establish a reputable full-service law firm that is now recognized as one of the most reliable and trusted corporate law firms in the Philippines.  Over the past decade, our...
LEGADO LAW
Manila, Philippines

Founded in 2023
2 people in their team
English
Tagalog
Welcome to Legado Law: Your Trusted Legal PartnerAt Legado Law, we pride ourselves on offering a full spectrum of legal services tailored to the diverse needs of our clients. Our proficient team brings expertise in a variety of legal domains including Civil and Family Law, Criminal Defense,...
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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
Estate Planning
Elder Law
Trusts
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
Contract
Family
Will & Testament
Trusts
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 Manila, Philippines

Trusts are legal arrangements where one party, known as the trustee, holds assets for the benefit of another party, the beneficiary. In Manila, Philippines, trusts are often used for estate planning, asset protection, and managing property for minors or those with special needs. Trusts can be established during a person's lifetime or through a will after death. Philippine law recognizes several types of trusts, including express, implied, constructive, and resulting trusts. The key legislation governing trusts is found in the Civil Code of the Philippines, which outlines the rights and obligations of trustees and beneficiaries.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer is essential in navigating the complexities of trusts. Common scenarios necessitating legal assistance include drafting a trust deed, estate planning, administering a trust as a trustee, resolving disputes among beneficiaries, and ensuring compliance with fiduciary duties. A lawyer can also help in understanding the tax implications and legal requirements associated with trusts, thus ensuring that your assets are managed according to your wishes and in accordance with the law.

Local Laws Overview

In the Philippines, trusts are principally governed by the Civil Code, which provides the general framework. Key aspects include the legality of the trust, the duties and responsibilities of the trustee, and the rights of beneficiaries. The Code also addresses issues such as the revocation of trusts, the distribution of trust assets, and the management of trust funds. Additionally, specific regulations may apply to different types of trusts, such as charitable trusts or those involving real estate. Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone looking to establish or manage a trust in Manila.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a trust?

A trust is a legal arrangement where one party, known as the trustee, holds and manages assets for the benefit of another party, the beneficiary. It is created through a trust agreement or deed.

What are the types of trusts recognized in the Philippines?

The Philippines recognizes several types of trusts, including express trusts established by a direct declaration, implied trusts formed by law, constructive trusts imposed by a court, and resulting trusts based on presumed intent.

How do I establish a trust in Manila?

To establish a trust, you must create a trust deed outlining the terms and conditions and appoint a trustee. It is recommended to consult with a lawyer to ensure the trust is legally valid and aligns with your goals.

Who can be a trustee?

A trustee can be an individual or a corporation, such as a bank or trust company, that is capable of holding and managing the trust property. They should be trustworthy and competent to fulfill their fiduciary duties.

Can I revoke a trust once it is established?

In general, a trust can be revoked if it is a revocable trust and the terms specify conditions for revocation. Irrevocable trusts typically cannot be altered without the beneficiaries' consent.

What are the responsibilities of a trustee?

Trustees are responsible for managing the trust property prudently, adhering to the terms of the trust deed, acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries, and providing them with accurate accounts of the trust.

Can a trust own property in the Philippines?

Yes, a trust can own property. The trustee holds legal title to the property for the benefit of the beneficiaries, who have equitable rights to it.

How are trusts taxed in the Philippines?

Trusts may be subject to various taxes, such as estate tax or income tax on earnings generated by trust property. It is prudent to consult with a tax professional to understand the implications for your specific situation.

Can a trust be contested by beneficiaries?

Yes, beneficiaries can contest a trust if they have evidence of fraud, undue influence, or if they believe the trustee is mismanaging the trust assets or not fulfilling their fiduciary duties.

What happens if there is a dispute over a trust?

Disputes may be resolved through mediation or court intervention. It is advisable to seek legal advice to ensure your rights and interests as a trustee or beneficiary are protected.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:

  • The Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission
  • The Integrated Bar of the Philippines
  • Local law firms specializing in estate planning and trusts
  • Philippine judicial websites for accessing relevant legal documents

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with trusts, consider the following steps:

  • Consult with a qualified lawyer who specializes in trust law to discuss your needs.
  • Collect all relevant documents and information related to your assets and intended beneficiaries.
  • Prepare a list of questions and concerns to address with your attorney.
  • Schedule a consultation to gain insight into the legal process and ensure your assets are protected.
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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.