Trust and Estate Law

Trust and estate litigation involves legal disputes over a will or trust, generally between beneficiaries, a trustee and beneficiary, co-trustees, or third parties. It encompasses a wide range of matters, such as will contests, breaches of fiduciary duties, guardianship disputes, trustee removals, contested accountings, and creditor claims against the estate. 

A trust and estate litigation attorney handles disagreements involving the administration of a trust or the distribution of an estate. They also address pre-death issues such as financial elder abuse, undue influence, and issues of capacity. Trust and estate litigation lawyers work with fiduciaries, beneficiaries, and third parties to efficiently resolve conflict and ensure the directives of the decedent are upheld.

Not only do these attorneys need extensive knowledge of the law, but they must also have superior negotiation skills. Estate disputes can lend to emotionally charged situations. A capable attorney can diffuse the situation and keep the lines of communication between the parties open. They will facilitate negotiation and provide their client with realistic feedback and honest opinions. A trust and estate litigator must also be compassionate and attentive, listening to their client’s concerns and consistently looking out for their best interests.

Attorneys who qualify for verification have successfully reached at minimum a million dollar verdict or settlement for their client and are subject to annual re-verification and screening to confirm their good standing.