In certain
civil law jurisdictions (e.g.,
France,
Quebec,
Mexico, etc.), the
patrimony of affectation is a
patrimony, or legal estate, that can be divided for a fiduciary purpose, as being distinct from a person's general patrimony. It is similar in some respects to the way under
common law property is held, managed, or invested in
trust by a trustee for the benefit of third parties (beneficiaries). The affected property remains outside the grantor's patrimony; therefore, even if the grantor goes bankrupt, becomes insolvent, or incurs liabilities, the property remains untouchable and may continue to benefit the intended beneficiaries.