Introduction
A bailment trust is a legal contract offered by a trust company or financial institution that allows a subject to deposit assets with a third party to ensure debt repayment. This type of trust agreement is often used by businesses when borrowing large sums of money from a financial institution. Bailment trusts also provide legal protection for both the depositor and the creditor.
Scope of Trust
A bailment trust is an agreement between the depositor, creditor and trust company or financial institution. Under this agreement, the depositor places assets such as jewelry, stocks, bonds or real property in a trust for safe keeping. The trust company or financial institution takes possession of the assets on behalf of the depositor, and documents the assets in a bailment trust agreement. This agreement must include all of the particulars of the assets being transferred, such as serial numbers, monetary values and notes that record any special instructions.
Benefits of a Bailment Trust
A bailment trust is beneficial for those needing to secure loans or lines of credit. The trust company or financial institution will hold the deposited assets in the trust until the debt is paid off. The trust company or financial institution then releases the assets back to the depositor. This type of trust agreement keeps the assets secure until the debt is paid off and protects the creditor if the depositor fails to pay the debt.
Duties of Trust Company or Financial Institution
The trust company or financial institution must maintain accurate records of all transferred assets and will periodically check to make sure the assets are still at their pledged value. The trust company or financial institution must also be sure to properly return the assets to the depositor when the debt is paid off. The trust company or financial institution is liable for any damages to the assets or loss in their value due to mismanagement.
Risks of a Bailment Trust
Though a bailment trust offers protection for both the depositor and creditor, there are still some risks to consider. The trust company or financial institution can be held liable for any damages or losses, so it is important to research any prospective companies or institutions thoroughly before settling on one. In addition, depositors should be aware that broken terms in the agreement can cause legal issues, and the depositor may incur financial losses if the trust company or financial institution fails to properly return the deposited assets.
Conclusion
A bailment trust is a useful agreement that protects both the depositor and the creditor in a loan or line of credit. Though it can offer protection and security, there are still risks involved, so it is important that depositors do thorough research before settling on a trust company or financial institution. By understanding the risks and adhering to the terms of the agreement, a bailment trust can be a secure way to secure debt repayment.