What is a Custode?

Custos is the Latin word for "guardian" or "trustee". In legal contexts, a custode (plural: custodes) is a person who is appointed to manage and oversee the property or assets of another person, usually a minor or someone who is incapacitated. The role of a custode is to act in the best interests of the person under their care, and to manage their assets in a responsible and prudent manner.

In the context of trusts, a custode may be appointed by the trustee to manage the trust assets and ensure that they are used for the benefit of the beneficiaries. In this case, the custode has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries and to follow the instructions set out in the trust document.

In summary, a custode is someone who is responsible for managing and overseeing the property or assets of another person, usually a minor or someone who is incapacitated, and has a fiduciary duty to act in their best interests.