Our Trust and Estates lawyers at Berchem, Moses & Devlin, P.C., have been providing individuals, families and business professionals with the full range of estate planning and estate administration services since 1933. Our full-service estate planning representation includes the drafting of wills and trusts and other estate planning documents, probate and estate settlement services, trust administration and the preparation of necessary tax documentation. In addition, we offer clients advice with respect to small and closely held business succession planning.

Drafting Wills and Trusts for Connecticut Individuals and Families

The purpose of a will is to help individuals with the disposition of their assets, and provide 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 lawyers 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 assist in creating special needs trusts, life insurance trusts, marital trusts (AB trusts), charitable giving trusts and other trusts tailored to the needs of the grantor and the beneficiary.

Our estate planning services include preparing such documents as:

• Wills and trusts
• Powers of attorney
• Healthcare directives, including living wills
• HIPAA authorizations
• Prenuptial agreements
• Designation of conservator in the event of incapacity

With their own areas of specialized focus, our estate planning lawyers and business law attorneys work collaboratively to create integrated, customized business succession plans for small and closely held businesses throughout Connecticut.

Probate and Trust Administration Services

The probate process can be a daunting one. Probate involves the filing of a will with the court, gathering and valuation of 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 Connecticut estate attorneys provide the following probate and trust administration 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 seamless as possible.

We look forward to becoming your trusted advisor in estate planning, business succession planning and administration. Contact our law firm