Perpetuity Period: Trust Law Definition

The maximum duration a trust can continue before the property must vest absolutely in the beneficiaries. Prevents property being tied up indefinitely. In England and Wales, the statutory perpetuity period is 125 years for trusts created after 6 April 2010. Charitable trusts are exempt from perpetuity rules.

This definition is part of the Equity Steward Trust Law Glossary — a plain English reference for UK families and trustees.