Estate Planning, Administration, and Litigation
We have assisted many families in developing estate plans that protect hard-earned assets and ensure their orderly distribution to loved ones and heirs. With professional integrity and dedication,  we advise individuals and families concerning estate and gift tax planning, the disposition of assets and transfer of wealth at death, and the management and preservation of assets in the event of incapacity. We custom structure estate plans to take into account each client's individual needs and desires. We emphasize working cooperatively with the client's existing team of other professionals including accountants, life insurance representatives, financial planners, and investment advisors to achieve the client's objectives.
We assist with succession planning for closely held businesses, farms, ranches, and similar investments, seeking creative solutions to accomplish an efficient succession. The Firm's broad expertise allows us to provide integrated and comprehensive planning in the areas of business, corporate, and taxation law.
For clients having taxable estates, we assist with annual gift planning through the use of life insurance trusts, family limited partnerships, and other tax favored means. We also assist clients in implementation of charitable trusts, private foundations, and conservation easements. Estate planning tools such as durable powers of attorney and revocable trusts are used to assist our clients in avoiding the need for the court appointment of a guardian or conservator.
We advise and counsel personal representatives and trustees in the administration of estates after death of a decedent, including, where appropriate, probate proceedings, preparation of accountings, and estate and fiduciary tax returns. Our Firm also represents clients in disputes and litigation among heirs and beneficiaries of trusts. We are experienced with estate tax audits and appeals. We strive to provide all of these services in a timely, efficient, and cost effective manner.
Estate Planning Attorneys:
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Michael H. Smith
