On Perpetuities, Paradigms, and a Creative Life in the Law

Abstract

In this interview with Professor Bridget Crawford, retired estate planning attorney Jonathan Blattmachr discusses a variety of compelling (and not uncontroversial) topics including estate planning paradigms, asset protection trusts, community property and the repeal of the rule against perpetuities. Mr. Blattmachr played a key role in drafting the Alaska Trust Act (1997) and the ultimate adoption of consensual community property in Alaska. This interview serves as an important primary source for anyone interested in the evolution of American trusts and estates law over the last 20 years. Mr. Blattmachr details the origins of his interest in trust law reform, highlights from his career, and how conventional ways of thinking thwart legal innovation.

Keywords: trusts, estates, perpetuities, perpetual trusts, community property, law reform, estate planning, Blattmachr

JEL Classification: K19, K35