freykat,

There are many books available that deal with trusts and their application.

The most basic element of a trust is that it is a contract and it can be either public or private. It has three ingredients that are always present; grantors, trustees, and beneficiaries. There are also protectors and managers but these are not necessary components to establish form and substance.

A good read on the subject is "Trusts" by George T. Bogert. Try to secure the Professors Edition.