Advantage Why Our Trusts Work Southpac’s solution is why our trusts work. The 1989 amendments specifically add protection to trusts registered in the Cook Islands, by resolving the uncertainties in US law regarding claims against a trust settlor originating after a trust is established. Trusts are the ideal planning vehicle, because while legal title to the assets is placed with the trustee, beneficiaries can have a legally recognized and enforceable interest. While it is uncertain whether US residents can successfully shield themselves against future risk under US domestic law, trust law in the Cook Islands and Nevis. The law reinforces certainty by preventing judgments obtained in other countries from enforcement in the Cook Islands or Nevis, a prohibition that is constitutionally not possible as between states in the US. Punitive damage awards are not enforceable at all in the Cook Islands. Very stringent evidentiary and procedural rules apply to any claim against a trust.