Diploma in Trust and Estate Planning

Programme structure and approach to learning

The Diploma in Trust and Estate Planning is offered jointly by the Law Society of Ireland and the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).  The course has been designed by practitioners with specialist exposure to give a practical insight into key estate planning, legal and tax-based concerns for private clients in the area of trust and estates. The focus of the diploma course is to enable successful candidates to advise clients on all aspects of the creation of wills, the operation of trusts, associated tax implications, and overall estate planning for clients. Practical in its approach, this course prepares participants to deal with with real-life situations that practitioners face, providing real solutions to challenges encountered.

Modules

The Diploma in Trust and Estate Planning programme is based on the following module scheme and covers key themes as listed below*:

Module 1: Course introduction

• Lifetime and estate planning,
• Basic legal principles,
• Basic tax principles.

Module 2: Introduction to taxation issues

• Application of tax principles,
• CGT, income tax, stamp duty, CAT,
• Double taxation agreements. 

Module 3: Lifetime and estate planning

• Lifetime gifting and passing of value on death,
• Legal issues and tax implications of wealth planning structures,
• Financial planning. 

Module 4: Trust drafting

• Requirements of a valid trust,
• Classification of trusts,
• Drafting an effective trust deed.

Module 5: Administration of trusts

• Office of trustee and trustee powers,
• Breach of trust,
• Tax issues in trusts.

Module 6: Will drafting 

• Testamentary capacity,
• Solicitors’ duty of care,
• Assisted decision-making. 

Module 7: Administration of estates

• Applying for the grant,
• Litigation,
• Distribution of assets. 

Workshops

Workshops are interactive sessions that focus on group problem-solving and are designed to revise all modules covered to date and to consolidate the student’s knowledge.