The Rule Against Perpetuities

The Rule Against Perpetuities is a legal principle that limits how long a future interest in property can be kept uncertain. It states that certain future interests must vest (become certain) within a specified period—typically a life or lives of people alive at the time plus 21 years—otherwise they are invalid. This rule prevents property from being tied up or controlled for too long, ensuring that assets remain accessible and can be used or transferred by future generations without indefinite restrictions. It promotes flexibility and certainty in property and estate planning.