Irrevocable trust

What irrevocable trust means

In practice, you will see irrevocable trust in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.

Where irrevocable trust comes up

The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.

Read the source: Revocable trust, Settlor.

How to research the term

First, read the term where it actually appears. A rule, statute or court decision may define it for its own purposes. Next, check whether your court has a local rule that uses irrevocable trust in a special way. Then look at recent decisions from courts in your jurisdiction. They show how judges apply the term today. Also, remember that state law can differ from federal law. For that reason, use our state procedures guide to find your state’s rules. Finally, confirm every source is current before you rely on it.

You can read the current federal court rules online for free.

Related legal terms

• Interrogatory: a written question served on another party that must be answered in writing under oath.
• Intervention: a procedure that lets a nonparty become a party to an existing lawsuit.
• Irreparable harm: harm that money damages cannot adequately fix after the fact.
• Irrevocable: not able to be canceled or withdrawn once made. An irrevocable trust, an irrevocable offer or an irrevocable letter of credit binds the person who made it, unless the law or the document allows an exception.

Why precise terms matter

Legal words often look like everyday words, but they can carry a precise meaning. Because of that, a small misreading can change how you understand a deadline, a duty or a right. Our glossary keeps each definition short and links it to the procedures where it matters.