Our Approach
The seasoned attorneys in our Trusts & Estates Group apply the firm's philosophy of probing for innovative solutions beyond the obvious or legal answers to resolve disputes related to wills, trusts, estates and fiduciary issues relating to Surrogate's Court and Supreme Court matters. We represent and counsel individuals, families, and businesses, in simple or complex tax and financial planning, estate and trust administration, and litigation matters.
Our team understands that sensitivity is essential when handling these matters because of the many family and personal issues involved and guide our clients through the often difficult and emotional court or alternative dispute resolution proceedings.
Our Services
Litigation & Contested Proceedings
Will Contests
- Challenging or defending wills pursuant to 1404 examinations
- Lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, duress, and forgery claims
- Improper execution and attestation defects
- Construction proceedings to interpret ambiguous will provisions
Trust Disputes
- Contested trust amendments, revocations, and reformations
- Removal of trustees for breach of fiduciary duty
- Accounting proceedings and surcharge actions against fiduciaries
- Resulting and constructive trust claims
Fiduciary & Elder Matters
- Elder financial abuse and exploitation claims
- Contested guardianships and conservatorships
- Kinship proceedings and heirship disputes
- No-contest (in terrorem) clause litigation
Estate Administration & Planning
Probate & Administration
- Probate of wills and appointment of executors and administrators
- Surrogate’s Court proceedings — New York, New Jersey, and California
- Letters testamentary and letters of administration
- Estate accounting and judicial settlement of accounts
Trust & Estate Administration
- Trust administration, interpretation, and modification
- Trustee guidance on investment duties and distribution decisions
- Counsel and advise personal representatives
- Post-mortem tax planning and estate tax compliance
Estate Planning
- Wills, revocable trusts, and advanced directives
- Powers of attorney, advanced directives and guardianship planning for minors
- Special needs trusts and supplemental care planning
- Business succession and family wealth transfer strategies
- Charitable giving structures and foundations