New edition of Master-elect's book published

Downing Fellow and Master-elect Professor Graham Virgo’s fifth edition of his book The Principles of Equity & Trusts has been published by Oxford University Press.

The Principles of Equity & Trusts focuses on the Law of Equity and Trusts looks at this rapidly developing area in a modern context and provides commentary on how the law is applied and developed. 

The book covers both the doctrine and theory of Equity and Trusts, and reflects the current understanding of the subject as explained by judges and legal experts in England and other Common Law jurisdictions.

The book is divided into eight parts. Part I considers the history and contemporary relevance of Equity. Part II is about the express trust. Part III considers purpose trusts. Part IV then examines imposed trusts. Part V is about beneficiaries. Part VI examines trustees’ powers and duties. Part VII examines variations of trusts. Part VIII is about breach of trust and fiduciary duty and the personal and proprietary remedies available for such breach.

Previous editions of the book have been cited in the courts in England and in other jurisdictions. The new edition of the book is accompanied by online resources which include mini-lecture video clips.

The fifth edition has been significantly updated to reflect recent developments in the law, including ethical investments by charities, the rapid growth of cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens and legal responses to bribery and fraud.

Professor Virgo said: "I am delighted that the fifth edition of my book on Trusts and Equity has been published. Over the years I have supervised many Downing Law students for Equity and discussions with them in supervisions has helped me greatly in my thinking about this complex, fascinating and important subject and this has undoubtedly helped me in preparing this new edition of the book."

Published 1 June 2023