Estate Planning Law

Our Trust and Estates lawyers have been providing individuals with the full range of estate planning and administration since 1946, including the drafting of wills and trusts, and probate and estate settlement services, trust administration and the preparation of necessary tax documentation. In addition, we offer clients advise with respect to small and closely held business succession planning.

Drafting Wills and Trusts

The purpose of a will is to help individuals with the disposition of their assets, and providing for the guardianship of their children after their death. Our attorneys are available to not only assist in carrying out our clients wishes, but, where possible, to reduce or eliminate, where feasible, taxes payable upon death.

Our attorneys also have extensive experience in the preparation of all manner of trusts, which can play an important role in an estate plan, regardless of the level of wealth. We can also assist with preparing such documents as:

• Powers of Attorney
• Healthcare directives, including living wills
• HIPAA authorizations
• Pre-nuptial agreements
• Designation of conservator in the event of incapacity

Probate Trust Administrator

The probate process can be a daunting one. Probate involves the filing of a will with the court, gathering assets, determining creditor claims, preparing and filing estate tax returns and the distribution of assets in accordance with the will. The process is overseen by the Probate Court. In addition to the above, our attorneys provide the following services:

• Preparing income and estate tax returns
• Obtaining valuations of assets
• Locating beneficiaries
• Resolving disputes, such as will contests among beneficiaries, and when necessary, through the courts

Our experienced lawyers and paralegals help to guide clients through this process and strive to make it as seemless as possible.