The attorneys practicing in the Estate Planning & Probate Practice Group provide assistance to clients in the areas of asset protection and tax advantaged asset transfer planning, including identification of key assets, establishment of goals, and the development of long-term plans. The firm’s attorneys prepare the appropriate documents including wills, powers of attorney, conservation easements, and trusts of all kinds including personal residence, charitable remainder, charitable lead, and retained interest trusts.

The estate planning and business practice attorneys work closely to develop and implement plans for the transfer of family businesses from older to younger generations. This group also prepares prenuptial agreements for business owners and moderate to high net worth individuals.

The attorneys in the probate administration area are responsible for analysis of wills and trusts for both executors and beneficiaries, preparation and filing of necessary documents with local Probate Courts and taxing authorities, tax planning, preparation of disclaimers, and the transfer of assets to beneficiaries. This group also works with the litigation practice attorneys in defending and prosecuting lawsuits and claims regarding probate matters

• Developed and implemented estate plan for transfer of mid-market family manufacturing business from owner to two younger generations.
• Successfully defended beneficiary of large estate in action by executors alleging fraud.
• Designed plan to dispose of highly appreciated asset without current taxation, that produces a current income stream to the grantor, and provides a large endowment for the individual’s favorite charity at his death.
• Successfully represented major national children’s charity, an estate beneficiary, against claims of tortious interference.