Matthew Braithwaite
- Partner
- Private Client
Responsible wealth stewardship: Protecting wealth with purpose
In today’s society, wealth is no longer measured solely by its financial value — but by the values it reflects.
Responsible wealth stewardship reflects a growing awareness that wealth must be managed not only with care, but with conscience. In a world shaped by economic inequality, environmental urgency, and shifting generational values, how wealth is used — and by whom — has become as important as the wealth itself.
Wedlake Bell is proud to have supported the creation of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (“STEP”) Responsible Stewardship Toolkit by contributing legal insight and practical guidance on how families can embed values into their wealth planning. Our pivotal involvement reflects a commitment to helping clients protect wealth with purpose — through structures that promote legacy, sustainability, and intergenerational clarity. The toolkit focusses on practical approaches to incorporate responsible stewardship in trusts, Wills and powers of attorney.
Trusts and responsible stewardship
Trusts have long been a cornerstone of wealth preservation, but in today’s world, they can also be a powerful tool for expressing values and purpose.
Now aided by the toolkit we help clients and their advisors structure trusts that reflect not just financial goals, but personal convictions. This can include embedding responsible investment approaches into trust deeds, supporting philanthropic initiatives, and ensuring that trustees are empowered to act in such a way that is not strictly limited to achieving financial return.
Trusts are often assimilated as offering asset protection and wealth preservation but can also help bridge generational divides, offering rising generations a sense of purpose and responsibility beyond financial return. By aligning trust structures with a shared family values, wealth holders can foster unity and continuity across generations.
Wills and responsible stewardship
A well-crafted Will is more than a legal document – it is a final expression of intent. In the context of responsible wealth stewardship, Wills offer an opportunity to articulate a vision for the future that goes beyond financial distribution.
We work closely with clients to ensure their Wills reflect not only their wishes but also their principles. This might include:
- leaving legacies to causes that matter deeply to them;
- encouraging beneficiaries to engage with wealth thoughtfully; and
- providing guidance on how wealth should be used to support family, community, or environmental goals.
In a world where the rising generations are increasingly conscious of inequality and sustainability, a Will that speaks to these themes can offer clarity, reassurance, and a lasting sense of purpose.
Powers of Attorney and responsible stewardship
Powers of attorney (“POA”) can play a vital part of responsible wealth planning. They ensure that, should the unexpected happen, decisions are made in a way that reflects values and priorities.
At Wedlake Bell, we help clients put in place POAs that go beyond the basics. Whether it’s guiding attorneys to consider ethical investment strategies, supporting charitable giving, or respecting lifestyle preferences, POA can ensure that wishes can continue to be followed if they are unable to do so themselves.
POAs are not just about control — they are about trust. They are a statement of confidence in those persons appointed, and a safeguard for the principles clients hold dear.
How we can help
At Wedlake Bell, we help clients turn values into action. Whether you’re looking to preserve family wealth, support future generations, or align your estate planning with a broader sense of purpose, our Private Client team advise on the full spectrum of wealth structuring — from establishing trusts that reflect ESG priorities, to drafting Wills that honour philanthropic intent, to preparing POAs that safeguard your wishes.
Please contact Matthew Braithwaite or Vicki Mahon for a confidential discussion.
This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or a comprehensive statement of the law. Specific legal advice should always be sought in relation to individual circumstances.
Meet the team:
Victoria Mahon
- Partner
- Private Client
