ABSTRACT
Introduction to secret trusts Section 9 of the Wills Act 1837 (as amended by the Administration of Justice Act 1982) requires a valid will to be in writing, signed by the testator and attested by two witnesses. When the testator dies, his assets pass to his executors, who must obtain probate after which the will becomes open to public inspection on payment of a small fee. Herein lies the main reason for secret trusts.
