Offshore: the meaning is "far from  shore" or "a financial operation transacted outside the country in question (yours)." Asset protection has become a topic of great interest to professionals, executives, business owners, and developers. A fluctuating economy, a tough credit market, professional malpractice, toxic waste liability and increasing exposure to tort and contract claims have increased the focus on how to lawfully protect one's assets from creditors. However, asset protection planning is not just for high paid professions and executives. Today's world is an environment filled with lawsuits, taxes, accidents and financial risks that can easily wipe out anyone's assets. No matter how safe you feel, you can never be certain that the wealth you have built up over a lifetime won't suddenly be taken from you tomorrow. Whatever your occupation or lifestyle, we all sail close to financial disaster and potential liability.