Fundamentals of Trusts and Estates, Third Edition, 2007

                                                                       by Roger W. Andersen*

                                                                               and  Ira Mark Bloom **

 Going beyond the traditional casebook, this new edition of Fundamentals of Trusts and Estate contains numerous notes, questions and problems which illuminate both  human and  doctrinal dramas, often by placing students in various roles . These problems and questions help students develop skills and values to carry throughout their professional lives. In addition, this casebook includes excerpted readings, provisions of the Uniform Probate & Trust Codes and other relevant primary sources, and bibliographical references. Policy debates, ethics issues and practical considerations lace their way through the material.

The first chapter provides overviews of the wealth transfer and the transfer tax systems. Chapters on intestacy and wills develop the basic doctrines upon which the system depends. To facilitate an understanding of the law's movement toward integration, will substitutes are covered before discussing the problems caused by changed circumstances and the devices for protecting the family. The increasingly-important topic of planning for incapacity serves as a bridge to a look at trust doctrine. The book closes with topics traditionally designated as "future interests" and a chapter on fiduciary administration to tie things together.

Fundamentals of Trusts and Estates presents generally traditional material in a more efficient, contemporary format. Various graphics help to identify material, illustrate legal principles and breathe life (and even humor) into this subject. An appendix presents sample documents for discussion.

 * Roger Andersen is Professor Emeritus of Law at University of Toledo.